A recent study on the hidden body care benefits of exercise have found that even moderate physical activity can boost the immune system and protect 
against chronic diseases.
Here are some of the results:
- Lowers the risk of stroke by 27%.
- Reduces the incidence of diabetes by approximately 50%.
- Reduces the incidence of high blood pressure by approximately 40%.
- Can reduce mortality and the risk of recurrent breast cancer by approximately 50%.
- Can lower the risk of colon cancer by over 60%.
- Can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by approximately 40%.
- Can decrease depression as effectively as Prozac or behavioral therapy.
In another study of how fitness fights the common cold, researchers showed that regular exercise lessens its effects as follows:
Number of Days it Lasts – Low level of fitness = 10.6; medium-level of fitness = 8.5 days; and high-level of fitness 7.5 days.
Number of Symptoms – Medium level of fitness = 29% less than low-level of fitness; High level of fitness = 38% less than low-level of fitness.
Severity of Illness – Medium level of fitness = 28% less than low-level of fitness; High level of fitness = 37% less than low-level of fitness.
Hi Niki:
Wanted to also share that the artciles are also great and informative. You do bring up a valid point. The stronger your immune system is, the more likely you will be able to fight off a cold. Eating healthier and exercising (in moderation) on a regular basis can certainly help. However, I would not say that this would absolutely guarantee that you couldn’t catch a cold, bit it would probably reduce your risk of getting one. And even if you do catch one, you would likely get over it more quickly than someone with a lower immune system. At times my immune system has been low because of other conditions (e.g. intestinal candida), and I’ve had colds that have lasted 2 weeks or longer, while my husband gets over them in a few days. Also, be aware of any other conditions you may have (such as intestinal candida which I have) which can also lower the immune system. Any other potential issues should be addressed as well. Approximately 80% of our immune systems is in our gut. Hope this helps…
The cold season is up onus, I have always thought that the healthier you are the easier it is to fight a cold. Is there alot of truth to this? If I eat well and exercise on a regular basis, can I almost avoid the common cold? Thanks for the tips. Keep up the good work on the great information you provide. I really enjoy your articles.