Immunological research has previously shown that regular exercise improves immune system function in a way that would suggest that people who are more fit would be more resistant to illness. Interestingly, until recently little evidence has been collected to prove that people who are more "fit" actually get sick less.
Researchers in North Carolina tracked the frequency of upper respiratory tract infections in over 1000 men and women over 1 year. At the end of the 12 month period, participants completed questionnaires that solicited information on lifestyle, exercise type and frequency, self-reported fitness level, nutrition, and stress.
The most active participants, those who exercised more than 5 times per week aerobically had 46% fewer colds than those at the opposite extreme who trained less than one time per week. Moreover, those who exercised the most had less severe symptoms and recovered from cold symptoms faster than the most sedentary group. Interestingly, the researchers discovered that older, married men had a lower frequency of colds compared to other groups.
Aerobic exercise has previously been shown to increase the activity of immune system cells that fend off viruses. This is a temporary effect that occurs following an acute bout of exercise. The immune system returns to normal function thereafter. This helps explain why greater frequency of exercise was the greatest contributor to preventing colds in the current study.
In an article by HealthDay News, it was written that annual healthcare costs associated with the common cold currently top $40 billion. Consequently, a little exercise could go a long way in improving health care costs in the US.
Nieman, D.C. et al (2010) Upper respiratory tract infection is reduced in physically fit and active adults. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ePub online doi:10.1136/bjsm.2010.077875
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Wow! Is it true? No wonder why I don’t get colds even if winter comes!
ReplyDeleteThat must be the reason why I’m weak, my immune system is weak. I will start doing my regular exercise by tomorrow morning. It will be a big help to stay healthy.
ReplyDeleteIt’s good news! We don’t have to do over-the-counter medicines, or even spend money. It’s a one effective natural way of avoiding colds.
ReplyDeleteTrue. In a research study originally appearing in the November 2006 issue of The American Journal of Medicine, women who did aerobic exercise, usually brisk walking for 30 minutes every day, had ½ the colds of a non-aerobic placebo group.
ReplyDeleteSo what are you waiting for? Run! Exercise! Dance! Have a healthy lifestyle!
ReplyDeleteExcellent write up. I agree wholeheartedly with you. Being inactive makes you sick period. I am in better shape now that ever since I am more active.
ReplyDelete