Exercise strengthens the immune system and could promote milder corona diseases
Even if the number of new infections with the coronavirus is no longer increasing as quickly as a few days ago, the danger from the new pathogen is far from over. To protect yourself from infection, it is important to comply with hygiene rules and to keep away from other people. A strong immune system is also recommended, which, although it cannot prevent infection, could contribute to a milder course of the disease.
The number of infections with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus continues to increase. So far there are no drugs or a vaccine against the new pathogen. But a strong immune system could help prevent a serious illness with the virus. Because the fitter the immune system, the more likely it is that we will stay healthy. Exercise can help strengthen our defenses.
How exercise affects the immune system
Politicians are taking extensive measures to contain the disease caused by the new coronavirus. However, according to experts, the risk of infection remains for a large part of the population.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Claus Reinsberger, neurologist and head of the sports medicine institute at the University of Paderborn, explains in a current communication how sport influences the immune system and thus contributes to a possibly milder course of the disease.
The risk of infection is not reduced
“If there is an infection, it is advantageous to be in the best possible health and in terms of your own fitness,” explains Reinsberger, who is researching clinical and scientific performance and health diagnostics.
The expert calls for action: “Strengthening physical performance and the immune system is essential – in times of corona more than ever. Even those who have not or only a few active people should train now if they do not suffer from symptoms of illness. “
As the doctor further explains, sport “not only maintains fitness, but also helps the body to deal with infections better by acting on the immune system”.
At the same time, the specialist makes it clear: “The risk of infection as such is not reduced. The virus affects fit and less fit people alike – but the courses are probably different. “
Body can respond better to infections
According to Reinsberger, self-regulation of the immune system is of central importance: “New pathogens provoke immune reactions, which primarily serve to fight the virus,” says the doctor.
“The mechanisms of self-regulation normally ensure that this reaction does not overshoot. If it does, the entire organism is overloaded, ”says the scientist.
“Studies have shown that an increase in physical performance also optimizes the processes of self-regulation. The result: the body can respond better to infections. ”
Strengthen the body’s defenses sustainably
Sport helps to sustainably strengthen the body’s defenses. Among other things, Reinsberger advises on endurance activities such as jogging: “A moderate intensity is particularly recommended. This is probably the best way to activate the immune system. However, I do not recommend extreme loads ”.
However, if you can’t, don’t want or are allowed to go outside, you can also find simple fitness tips for at home on the Internet.
According to Reinsberger, positive effects on the cardiovascular system and various organs such as the lungs in particular are also confirmed by medical research. In this context, the expert also refers to the positive effects of sport on the brain and psyche.
In addition, the connection between physical fitness and the course of serious illnesses in medicine has increasingly come into focus. (ad)
Important NOTE:
This article contains general information only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
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