Previous Articles
Health & Nutrition |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Unsure about whether or not to work out when you’re a little
under the weather? Don’t fret. Follow these steps and find out how to
cold-proof your winter.
| The Cold Truth |
Oxygen
#67, pg. 86 |
|
| |
 By
Rehana Begg
Being a health and fitness devotee, there’s no question that you would
rather spread cheer than germs this winter. However, this is the optimal
time for spreading common cold and flu viruses in North America. In fact,
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that adults average
about two to four colds a year, and women aged 20 to 30 years have more
colds than men. You may think that if you increase the intensity of your
workout you’ll give your immune system a boost. Unfortunately, you
might make yourself more sick. The bottom line: exercise in moderation.
YOUR 4-step PLAN
1. Get a flu shot.
“The most effective
way to reduce the impact of flu symptoms is to get a flu shot,” says
Dr. Steve Brezny, a family physician in Columbus, Ohio who also mentions
that the recommendations for who should get the flu shot has changed now
that there is a national flu vaccine shortage. In cases where the flu shot
doesn’t prevent flu, it will considerably lessen the severity of the
virus. However, the vaccine is not recommended for children under six months
of age and anyone with a severe allergy to chicken eggs (because the vaccine
is made of inactivated influenza viruses that are injected into fertilized
hens’ eggs).
2. Maintain your weight
Low-calorie diets, long-term fasting and rapid weight loss impair immune
function, says Mary Concannon, an exercise physiologist and certified personal
trainer in Columbia, Maryland.
3. Avoid excessive exercise
Postpone workouts and consult your doctor when you have a fever greater
than 100 degrees, as well as when you have extreme fatigue, shortness of
breath, wheezing or an irregular heartbeat, says Brezny. “For stubborn
athletes and those working toward a competition, bring training down a bit
to help fight the infection,” recommends Jardine.
4.
Drink up
Increase the amount of fluids you drink, such as water, soups and juices.
|
To read the full article, pick
up a copy of Oxygen
#67
today!
|
|
