VO2 max

VO2 max is the maximal rate of oxygen consumption by an individual; it is of significance for athletes, particularly endurance athletes. The volume of oxygen is measured in liters per minute (L/min) or millilitres per kg bodyweight per minute (ml/kg/min). VO2 max is a good measure of the aerobic capacity of an individual and therefore his physical fitness. The extent of VO2 max is determined by the capacity of the heart to pump oxygen-rich blood into the skeletal muscle system and the capacity of the skeletal muscle system to utilize the oxygen.

Heart Disease and Obesity

The term “heart disease” encompasses various ailments that afflict the human heart which combined together are the leading cause of death in the United States. Basically, a heart disease or a cardiovascular disorder refers to any condition in which the heart’s ability function properly is impaired. Some of the reasons why obesity is bad for the heart include the fact that being overweight leads to an increase in blood cholesterol and triglycerides.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is temporarily suspended during sleep. There are several forms of sleep apnea, including central, complex and obstructive sleep apnea, of which the latter is the most common. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may involve two different types of breathing interruption: apnea and hypopnea. Apnea occurs when the upper airway becomes obstructed due to collapse of the muscles and soft tissues of the throat during inspiration. Hypopnea is said to occur when the blockage is only partial, resulting in a significant reduction in airflow.