CHESTERFIELD, MO--(Marketwire - Apr 19, 2011) - Reliv International is urging everyone to get up and get moving for National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in May. Since 1983, this month-long celebration has aimed to raise awareness of the value of physical activity to any individual in leading a happier, healthier, more productive life.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 37 percent of adults report they are not physically active and only three in ten adults get the recommended amount of physical activity. Inactivity, combined with a poor diet, can lead to obesity, which is in turn connected to a host of health problems including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, respiratory problems and some types of cancer.
"The health risks associated with inactivity are real," says Dr. Carl Hastings, chief scientific officer of Reliv, "but the good news is that moderate activity -- just 30 minutes a day, five days a week -- can produce significant health benefits in adults over the age of 18. Moderate exercise, especially when combined with good nutrition and a thoughtful program of nutritional supplements based on your age, health history and other risk factors can yield significant health benefits."
Dr. Hastings emphasizes that fitness and nutrition go hand-in-hand. A diet that is rich in protein and fiber, and focused on healthy fats and a variety of food choices, provides the necessary energy to fuel an exercise program. For today's busy adults, who often juggle family, work and social responsibilities, supplements can offer a sure-fire way to make certain that their bodies' nutritional needs are being met as they increase their activity level.
"While many people begin an exercise program to lose weight, the benefits of regular physical activity extend way beyond fitting into your skinny jeans," Dr. Hastings said. "In addition to the protective effect that exercise provides against many health problems, it can also reduce anxiety and depression, lower stress levels, challenge your brain, boost self-esteem and improve the quantity and quality of sleep. There is a huge pay-off in overall health and well-being in return for the investment in time."
Reliv's active lifestyle initiative, Team Reliv, offers an online Fitness Club where members can track their progress toward a healthy, active lifestyle. As part of the program, Reliv is sponsoring running and fitness events all over the country.
Reliv International's newest product is Reliv 24K, a healthy energy shot with no caffeine. The company also offers essential daily nutrition and weight loss products, along with items focused on heart health, joint health, digestive health and blood-sugar management. With a business opportunity that gives people control over their lives, Reliv International provides its independent distributors with the tools and incentives they need to build a lucrative career.
For more information about Reliv International and more healthy lifestyle tips, please visit http://www.reliv.com. To learn more about Team Reliv or find a Team Reliv sponsored event near you, click here (https://www.facebook.com/teamreliv).
About Reliv International
Reliv International, Inc., based in Chesterfield, Mo., makes nutritional supplements that promote optimal health. Reliv supplements address essential nutrition, weight loss, athletic performance, digestive health, women's health and anti-aging. The company's newest product is Reliv 24K, an energy shot that promotes energy, mental focus and stress relief. The company's relivables line markets premium personal care products. Reliv sells its products through an international network marketing system of independent distributors in 15 countries. Learn more about Reliv at www.reliv.com, or on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.