Regular physical activity enhances important skills, like concentration and problem solving, which have been shown to improve academic performance.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

The good news is that doctors believe health can be restored to young people's arteries with regular physical activity and a healthy diet.

WSJ: Heart-Attack Risk Starts Younger

Dr Tim Bowker, of the British Heart Foundation, said it was already well established that regular physical activity helps improve reduce harmful cholesterol and the risk of atherosclerosis.

BBC: Exercise is good for health

Ms Vezey said there was already evidence which proves that in some cases diabetes can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and doing regular physical activity.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Compound to cut fatty food risk

She said it was also important to remember that regular physical activity combined with a diet high in fruit and vegetables and low in saturated fat was still the best way to combat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Blueberries 'lower cholesterol'