Page 53 - FoodFocusThailand No.240 April 2026

STRATEGIC R & DTEGIC R & D
STRA

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE:

A WAY OUT OF THE HEALTH CRISIS

IN AN AGE OF DECLINING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

In the digital era, lifestyles have become increasingly sedentary due to greater reliance on motorized
transport and prolonged use of digital media. As a result, physical activity levels have declined significantly.
According to the World Health Organization, over 1.8 billion adults worldwide—approximately 31%—do not
meet the recommended physical activity levels, a figure that is projected to rise to 35% by 2030. This trend
contributes to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and rising healthcare costs.

The concept of an active lifestyle, are associated with obesity, diabetes, certain types of cancer, and cardiovascular
which integrates physical activity into daily disease (Pinto et al., 2023; Dhondge et al., 2024).
routines, has therefore gained increasing However, when the body engages in regular physical activity, several biological
attention. It emphasizes not only movement, systems are activated to restore balance and function. The body then shifts toward
but also proper nutrition, and balance a more active lifestyle. The key mechanisms involved are as follows:
across the body’s systems, including 1) Catecholamines are biochemical substances, including epinephrine
circulatory, digestive, and immune systems. (adrenaline), norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and dopamine, which function
These practices help enhance quality of as both neurotransmitters and hormones. When the body is stimulated by
life and reduce the long-term risk of NCDs physical activity, the sympathetic nervous system signals the adrenal medulla to
(Sharma et al., 2024). increase catecholamine release. This results in an increased heart rate, improved
blood circulation, enhanced alertness, and improved concentration (Aksoy
Active Lifestyle: et al., 2025).
From Inertia to Vitality
When the body remains inactive for
prolonged periods, adenosine accumulates
in the brain and binds to A1 and A2A
receptors, leading to drowsiness, lethargy,
and reduced responsiveness (Alves et
al., 2024). At the same time, levels of key
neurotransmitters decline, particularly
dopamine and serotonin, which are
associated with attention and motivation.
This reduction can result in fatigue, loss
of concentration, and reduced decision-
making efficiency (Basso and Suzuki,
2017). In addition, physical inactivity
reduces blood flow to the brain, impairs ภาพที่่� 1 กลไกการตอบสนองของร่างกายเมื่่�ออย่่ในสภาวะน่�งเฉยจนไปส่่การเก่ดโรค NCDs
metabolic functions, and increases the risk Figure 1 Physiological response mechanisms during prolonged inactivity that lead to
of chronic inflammation. These conditions the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

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