Final answer:
The assertion from O'Keefe et al. that physical activity leads to physiological benefits and reduced cardiovascular diseases is true. Exercise mitigates various disease risk factors, boosts mental health, and improves longevity. Health guidelines recommend regular moderate-intensity aerobic activity to maximize health benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, the reading by O'Keefe et al. provides evidence suggesting that physical activity is highly beneficial to physiological health, leading to a reduction in cardiovascular diseases and other health conditions. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce risk factors such as hypertension, "bad" cholesterol, high total cholesterol, and excess body weight, while also increasing "good" cholesterol and insulin sensitivity. Additionally, physical activity has benefits for mental health, and cognitive function, and may reduce the risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
Physical activity recommendations from the Department of Health and Human Services suggest adults should aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Engaging in physical activity for just 30 minutes a day can have significant health benefits, including a nearly 50 percent decrease in heart attack rates. Moreover, even fit individuals who are overweight might be healthier than inactive slender individuals, emphasizing that moderate exercise offers undeniable health improvements.