Health

Why Exercise and Physical Fitness Really Matter

Dr. Derek Berry Thorpe

For those of us adults who think Exercise and Physical Fitness is merely a fleeting endeavor for the young athlete or the influential folk… well, it’s not.

Let me tell you why.

There are many differences, but the one major thing which separates us humans from trees and plants is that we have the ability to move short or long distances. Oh, how the plant world envies that we can move away from danger. I sometimes think this explains why they are so green, but I digress.

Deliberate, repeated, muscular contraction against one’s skeletal frame is a big deal, yet 80% of adults can’t wait to be comfortably lying or sitting in the pursuit of a sedentary lifestyle. Indeed, there are few things that are better predictors of longevity than our degree of fitness, strength and stability. A recent North American study revealed that if a senior citizen, male or female, aged 65 or older fractures their hip/thigh bone, 40% of them will be dead within a year.

Let’s start with the obvious. It takes energy to exercise; riding, jogging, swimming… That food energy is taken from one of your many fat stores and converted into chemical energy (ATP). Thus is the simplified basis of weight loss, and in an overweight person, this is always a good thing.

Nervous System

The effect on the overall nervous system responding to even moderate exercise is quite remarkable. It stimulates the ‘chill’ part of your autonomic nervous system and sends signals to your blood vessel linings instructing them to relax. What results is a period of lowered blood pressure. In the world of a hypertensive, this is golden.

Further, studies show the brain itself responds positively to an inevitable by-product of muscular activity. We are all familiar with that muscular ‘burn’ resulting from repetitive strenuous activity. This sensation is physiologically normal, but the molecule that is created to quell this discomfort, lactate, travels through the circulation producing beneficial effects in the brain, heart and liver. Lactate, as a signaling molecule, protects the brain from dementias, improves cognitive brain function, promotes a feeling of well-being and improves sleep.

Skeletal Protection

Maintaining one’s muscle mass as we age turns out to be a significant factor in the prevention of chronic ailments and accidental falls. The muscle itself is excellent in regulating carbohydrate storage and insulin sensitivity, thus keeping diabetes at bay. For menopausal women especially, the risk of progressive bone density loss leading to osteoporosis, is real and a proven weapon against this is Vitamin K2 along with resistance weight workouts. It turns out that our bones sense the repeated pull and strain from our tendons and responds by laying down a stronger bony matrix. Am I suggesting mature folk join a gym and lift weights? Without hesitation, if the pocket allows it, I say Yes. If a gym membership is not on the cards, there are many ways one can use your own body weight in a calisthenic workout at home. Remember the statistic I quoted earlier about hip fractures. Forty percent over 65 years may die in a year, but the remaining 60% do extremely poorly as well in terms of quality of life.

Even if we are not serious athletes, we should all be familiar with the term VO2 max. What is this? Basically, it’s an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness. It measures the maximal extraction of oxygen from the blood per minute per kilogram under your most strenuous activity. Accurate assessment can only be done under lab conditions with monitors and tubes going hither and tither, but respectable estimates are possible to calculate nowadays given one’s age, gender and weight. Bottom line is that as your fitness improves the better your VO2 max becomes.

Pay attention to this statistic. The risk of dying from any cause is 200% less when compared to those who are in the lowest 25th percentile of their predicted VO2 max versus those who are just in the range of their 50-75th percentile. So how does one climb the ladder of improving your VO2 max? The common denominator here is the health and concentration of your own mitochondria. I’ve spoken about these mighty ATP producing organelles in previous articles. And how do you go about improving your own stock of mitochondria? Simply, stress them with consistent exercise (hormesis leading to mitophagy).

To be sure, all the complete benefits have not been included in this article, but this is why Exercise and Physical Fitness matter, folks. In some ways I’m sorry trees aren’t able to run away from lumberjacks coming to cut them down. At least we’d have less furniture around for us humans to laze about on.

Dr. Thorpe is a nuclear medicine and functional medicine physician with post graduate degrees from Cornell School of Medicine and the University of Florida. He mentors his clients through the ketogenic diet and treats pain and injury through optimism of blood flow.

Health

MENTAL HEALTH IN FOCUS AT THE 69TH CARPHA CONFERENCE

The mental health crisis in the Caribbean has escalated to alarming levels, with young people bearing the brunt of rising anxiety, depression, and stress. This stark reality was underscored by Chief Medical Officer, the Most Honorable Dr. Kenneth George, as he addressed the media launch of the 69th CARPHA Annual Health Research Conference.

With this year’s theme—”Mental Health: The Hidden Pandemic”—highlighting the growing concern over mental well-being in the region, Dr. George revealed a startling statistic: Barbados has experienced a 100 percent increase in individuals seeking psychological and mental health services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Across the region, there have been notable rises in persons experiencing mental health conditions, especially among young people, with many individuals experiencing heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and stress,” he said. “In Barbados, there has been a 100 per cent increase in the number of individuals seeking psychological and mental health services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This surge is reflective of a broader regional trend where the impact of the pandemic has led to significant rises in mental health conditions.”

Though steps have been taken to address the crisis, Dr. George acknowledged that the work is far from over. The lingering effects of the pandemic continue to weigh heavily on the population, making it crucial to expand and promote mental health services across the region.

One key focus is youth mental health, an area where Barbados is making strategic moves. Dr. George shared that the country is in the process of developing an adolescence policy, with technical support from PAHO. However, reaching young people requires a different approach.

“We are developing an adolescence policy for Barbados. PAHO has been strategic in giving us the technical support, I think the document is fairly well-advanced. The challenge with young people is that from an adolescence perspective we need to be strategic in how we reach them. We are not going to reach them through the polyclinics or the older methods [in] how we deliver healthcare. We have to meet them where they are, and understand their communities to deliver appropriate healthcare,” he explained.

Health

Tackling Barbados’ Chronic Disease Epidemic and Special Needs Support

By Deanzer Roberts

Barbados, like many Caribbean nations, is experiencing an epidemiological transition, with shifting dietary patterns. While undernourishment has declined, obesity remains a significant concern, with approximately 66% of adults being overweight or obese. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some cancers, account for over 80% of all deaths in the country.

Food availability data reveal excessive consumption of protein, fat, and sugar, while the intake of fruits and vegetables remains inadequate—over 90% of the population fails to meet the minimum recommended levels. Simply put, Barbados is facing a chronic NCD epidemic.

To address this, the government has implemented a National Food and Nutrition Policy, supporting Baby-Friendly Hospital certification at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, a national school nutrition policy, and taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages, alcohol, and tobacco to reduce consumption of unhealthy products. Prime Minister Mia Mottley co-chaired a report entitled Healthy Taxes: A Compelling Policy for the Crisis of Today with Michael Bloomberg and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. This underscores the recognition of taxation as a deterrent while also raising revenue to offset rising health expenditures due to unhealthy lifestyles.

However, the government acknowledges that taxation alone is not enough. A strong public education campaign is needed to change behaviors. To this end, $1 million per year will be allocated for public education over the next two years, focusing on dietary changes and physical activity. Starting June 1, 2025, an excise tax of 20% will be placed on high-salt snacks, including Pringles, salted nuts, corn curls, salted popcorn, tortilla chips, salted pretzels, and salt crackers among others.

The government has also appealed to hotels, restaurants, and cook shops to remove salt shakers from tables and counters, encouraging people to taste their food before adding salt. While traditional dishes like salted pigtails and saltfish remain popular, citizens are urged to prepare them with reduced salt content.

This comprehensive approach—combining policy, taxation, education, and behavioral change—aims to curb the prevalence of NCDs, improve national health, and promote longer, healthier lives for all Barbadians.

Health

Several Activities Planned For Month Of The Disabled 2025

Friends and families of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the general public are invited to participate in activities to mark the Month of the Disabled, celebrated in March, under the theme One Community: United in Action for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.

The month of activities is coordinated by the National Disabilities Unit (NDU) and the Barbados Council for the Disabled (BCD), in collaboration with several stakeholders. A key feature throughout the month will be Daily Devotions and Co-op Tips on CBC TV.

With the official start on Sunday, March 2, there will be a multi-faith church service at the Derrick Smith School and Vocational Centre, Jackmans, St. Michael, from 4:00 p.m.

On Saturday, March 8, the Multiple Sclerosis Society will hold its first variety sale at Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Later, in the evening the NDU’s grounds at Maxwelton, Collymore Rock, St. Michael, will be the venue for the first Movie Night of the year. Show time will be from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. with featured movies entitled “Jungle Cruise” and “Inside Out 2”.

World Glaucoma Week, from Sunday, March 9, to Saturday, March 15, will allow for Barbadians to get tested at various locations.

On Wednesday, March 12, the NDU, in collaboration with Carlisle Laboratories, will host a health fair on its grounds at Collymore Rock, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Patrons will be given the opportunity to have blood sugar and blood pressure checks, and introduced to products offered by Carlisle Laboratories. They will also be encouraged to participate in informative sessions on non-communicable diseases and other chronic medical ailments.

Thursday, March 13, will be the date when the Barbados Council for the Disabled hosts a virtual workshop on the topic Electoral Practices Relating to PWDs.

The following day, Friday, March 14, the Multiple Sclerosis Society will host its second variety sale, this time at Sheraton Mall, Sargeant’s Village, Christ Church, from 10:00 a.m. until noon.

On Tuesday, March 18, the National Committee Monitoring the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will host a ceremony on the NDU grounds, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, where Barbados’ official report to the United Nations will be handed over to the Ministry of People Empowerment, for onward submission to the United Nations.

Wednesday, March 19, has been dubbed NDU Aquatic Day. This will see PWDs assembling at Browne’s Beach, Bay Street, St. Michael, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., to enjoy the sea and fun activities planned by the Unit.

The Down Syndrome Association will once again stage its annual “Rock Your Socks”, in commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. All Barbadians are encouraged to purchase socks and wear them on that day; take photographs, and display them on the various social media platforms.

A second movie night will be held on Saturday, March 22, at the NDU grounds, from 6:00 p.m. “Moana 2” and “Despicable Me 4” will be shown.

Sunday, March 23, will see 96 persons graduating from the NDU’s Sign Language and Flower Project programmes, conducted last year. The graduation ceremony will be held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Two Mile Hill, St. Michael, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, March 26, the BCD will present My Inclusive School at Harambee House, The Garrison, St. Michael from 10:00 a.m. My Inclusive School awards serve as a platform to acknowledge and commend schools demonstrating exceptional dedication to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for students with disabilities. They are recognised for implementing innovative practices, accommodations, and initiatives aimed at tailoring education to meet the needs of every child.

Later in the day, at 7:00 p.m., the NDU will host a public lecture at the Frank Collymore Hall, where The Most Honorable Kerryann Ifill, FB will present “This is My Story”. The month of activities will conclude on Saturday, March 29, with the “Special Envoy’s Outing” at Farley Hill National Park in St. Peter. (PR/GIS)