- Physical activity has positive effect on immune functions. When we are physically active, our muscles produce compounds that improve functioning of the immune system and reduce inflammation, thus strengthening our biological response to fight the infection. Exercise makes body release endorphins which are feel good hormones which keeps the mood positive and high for several hours. Moderately intense physical activity, such as walking, has the best impact, but extreme vigorous exercise, like running a marathon, temporarily reduces immune function. Regular exercise would enhance the overall function of our organs and brings hormonal balance in our body.
- Physical activity is effective for both preventing and treating heart diseases, metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, high BP, high triglycerides, insulin resistance, all of which increase the risk of severe illness and death among those infected with coronavirus. So, people who are suffering from various lifestyle and metabolic diseases could benefit the most by having regular physical activity.
- Being physically active has important mental health benefits. Exercise helps in relieving stress and shows improvement in the cases of depression and anxiety. Many researches proved that exercise is as effective as medications in treating mental disorders. So being active every day can be a partial antidote to the stress of the pandemic. For people already feeling distress, being active is as effective as medications and psychotherapy.
- Stress triggers sympathetic nervous system which takes us in fight or flight mode. In this state our body releases cortisol – the stress hormone. Cortisol suppresses our immune system and reduces our body’s ability to fight infections. Thus, psychological stress worsens the underlying biological processes of an infection. The most effective strategies for improving cortisol balance is physical activity and meditation. Older adults tend to have disrupted cortisol physiology and weaker immune systems, and physical activity may be particularly important for this large population to fight infections.
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