Allostatic load, which refers to the cumulative wear and tear on the body and that results from repetitive exposure to stressors, can lead to an increased risk for a number of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. In a study recently published online in the Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, Dr. Jennifer Gay, assistant professor of health promotion and behavior at the University of Georgia College of Public Health and co-authors examined whether regular physical activity was able to counter the accumulation of allostatic load.