Build Your Immune System Through Exercise

Teri Cochrane on
Exercise can help build your immune system.

Diet and supplements aren’t your only tools for fighting disease…

Make use of your divine ability to move!

According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, “the practice of physical exercises acts as a modulator of the immune system. During and after physical exercise, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are released, lymphocyte circulation increases, as well as cell recruitment. Such practice has an effect on the lower incidence, intensity of symptoms and mortality in viral infections observed in people who practice physical activity regularly.”

Long story short, exercise has been demonstrated to boost immune cell activity and support the circulation or access of immunocytes in the lymphatic system to potential sites of infection, as well as improving insulin sensitivity.

Harvard University also points out that regular exercise “improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, helps control body weight, and protects against a variety of diseases” – meaning that exercise targets structures outside of the immune system that indirectly improve our reaction to disease and infection.

I call the current health crisis a “double layer” pandemic because of the links in mortalities attributed to those who have diabetes and obesity. There is evidence to suggest that these disease states play off of one another, with individuals experiencing more severe symptoms than those who were diabetes-free and non-obese.

So get out there and find your grind!

Whether you favor high-intensity training, cardio or yoga, regular movement (even walking!) can provide a foundation for better immune function and all-around health.

It’s the practice of the practice. You can start slowly. If you can’t run a mile, begin with walking a block!

As we age, exercise is a vital component of everyone’s longevity play. I encourage you to find time for a minimum of 30 minutes of active movement a day, in whatever way feels best to you.

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