You may know that exercise and illness affect each other. During cold and flu season, many people want to prevent getting sick. If they do get sick, they wonder if they should take it easy or just tough it out. Check out these questions and answers so you know what to do if you or your kids get sick this year!
· Can exercise prevent me from getting sick?
Yes! Moderate exercise (20-30 minutes 3 or 4 times a week) has been shown to boost your body’s immunity by ramping up the number of your body’s natural killer cells by as much as 300%!
· I have a fever of over 100°F. Should I exercise today?
No. Your body is already working hard fighting off a sickness. Don’t overstress your system.
· I have a cough or diarrhea and vomiting. Should I exercise today?
No. Exercising can make your symptoms worse right now. Take it easy and rest instead.
· I have a sore throat and runny nose. Should I exercise today?
Yes, moderately. If your symptoms are “above the neck” (sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, or headache) a workout may give you a health boost.
When you’re feeling better and ready to exercise again, remember: “Start low, go slow!”
Consider these best and worst types of exercise to do when you’re feeling sick.
Source: WebMD, Mayo Clinic, CNN
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