Exercise Helps Ward Off Colds

There is no way to prevent or cure the common cold. Researchers tell people to wash their hands, but this has a limited impact on the number of colds people catch. That’s because many of the cold-causing viruses are airborne after someone sneezes or coughs. Hand washing cannot protect people from breathing in such minute droplets. That’s why a new study offers a glimmer of hope.
Researchers surveyed more than 1,000 adults who ranged from 18 to 85 years of age. They were asked about diets, lifestyle, stress, fitness and exercise habits. The number of colds they suffered were recorded in the fall and winter of 2008. People who ranked themselves among the fittest and exercised five days or more a week were only half as likely to experience cold symptoms compared to those who had less physical activity. Symptoms were also less severe among those who were more fit. The researchers speculate that exercise enhances the immune system, which may account for their greater resistance to colds.

[British Journal of Sports Medicine, Online, Nov. 1, 2010]