(NaturalNews) Several studies have linked cardiovascular activity to improvements in vision, providing hope in today's over-medicated world that eye health can get better via non-conventional means. (1)

For example, the publication Neuron reports on a new study showing that running alters neural pathways in the brain's mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR) associated with visual response. (1) This part of the brain is said to operate with a kind of dual purpose, sending messages that coordinate movement while also signaling visual functions to the cortex.

Dr. Harry A. Quigley, professor and director of glaucoma services at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University said, "Aerobic exercise is known to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), which we know protects retinal ganglion cells. Short-term studies show it may improve blood flow to the retina and optic nerve as well." (1) He explains that intense exercise levels are not necessary; just 20 minutes of activity about four times weekly can help improve eyes.

Cardiovascular activity helps vision, has several other health benefits

Supporting his thought is another study that makes parallels between jogging, cycling and stair running and improvements in contrast sensitivity. This means that a person's ability to properly distinguish between colors and brightness is more intact when one has been engaging in such activities. Furthermore, the same study also found that such fitness also improved mood.

It's no secret that physical activity boosts overall health, but in addition to research that shows its role in helping to improve vision, it's also been found to promote longevity. (1) In particular, running, even for just short periods of time, has been shown to have benefits; runners were 45 percent less likely than those who did not run to die of heart disease, and 30 percent less likely to die from any cause. (1)

Overall, cardiovascular exercise provides the body with a host of health benefits. It produces feel-good hormones that help relieve stress and can strengthen the heart, reduce blood pressure and lead to weight loss.

Sources for this article include:

(1) http://blogs.naturalnews.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

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A science enthusiast with a keen interest in health nutrition, Antonia has been intensely researching various dieting routines for several years now, weighing their highs and their lows, to bring readers the most interesting info and news in the field. While she is very excited about a high raw diet, she likes to keep a fair and balanced approach towards non-raw methods of food preparation as well. >>> Click here to see more by Antonia