Recently there was a study conducted to see how exercise affects one's susceptibility to acquire a cold or flu. We already know that exercise can improve one's mood, help one lose weight, and add years to their life, but this study also shows daily exercise can help you fight against colds and flues. This study recorded symptoms of 1000 people from all ages from the fall to the winter over a 12 week period. They found that people who engaged in jogging, biking, or swimming for about 20 minutes five days a week only had an average of a cold or flu for about 5 days. People who exercised one day or less per week experienced on average 8.5 days of cold or flu symptoms. On top of that, those who exercised regularly experienced milder symptoms than the people who did not exercise as much. Exercise is known to improve circulation of white blood cells which are the cells that help fight against disease or infection. This helps boost the immune system. Another aspect that can help boost the immune system is endorphins. It is known that exercise sends out endorphins which makes someone feel good, and in turn boosts the immune system. Also, when people exercise on a regular basis they tend to lead healthier lifestyles such as making better nutrition decisions. This was a great article to read because I do not know anyone that likes to be sick with a cold or flu. They are more a nuisance than anything, and if exercise can also benefit your immune system, then I do not know why more people do not engage in daily exercise.
I loved reading this blog because I exericse every day and I try to never get sick. It just ruins everything when you are sick, and then you can't work out either! I didn't know the statiscs on people who exercised or didn't exercise got flu symptoms more eaisly, or they lasted longer. I just thought that it was medicine that helped people and they would just get over a cold in the same amount of time. This is a great blog and I enjoyed reading about it.
ReplyDeleteI've actually been fighting off a cold the last week or so (kids had them)... went running twice over the weekend...and I am convinced it helped my cause. Good to see there is evidence to support my feelings!
ReplyDeleteI have definitely noticed that when I am exercising on a consistent basis it is extrememly rare that I catch a cold. When I do catch a cold I will usually try to do the opposite and catch a full days rest in hopes of feeling fresh the next day.
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