Vigorous exercise proven to lower the risk of flu, explains Chemist Direct
(PRWEB UK) 23 May 2014 -- Research shows that just two hours a week of vigorous exercise such as running, fast cycling or competitive sports, can reduce the risk of flu by around 10%.
In comparison, the study revealed that more gentle exercise such as walking or light jogging were found to have relatively little effect on reducing the chances of succumbing to flu or flu-like illnesses.
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine conducted an online survey with around 4,800 people taking part, to try to track as much detail as possible about who does and does not get flu. (http://bbc.in/1nwEnWk)
Participants gave their age, stated whether they are around children, if they had been vaccinated against flu and how much ‘vigorous’ exercise they do a week. The results found that moderate exercise did not seem to have a protective effect on the immune system.
In fact, the study revealed that 100 cases of flu per 1,000 people could have been prevented by engaging in more rigorous exercise.
Superintendent Pharmacist at ChemistDirect, Omar El-Gohary, said: “Vigorous exercise can help protect from developing heart disease and a stroke. It can also help reduce high blood pressure and undesirable blood lipid patterns.”
“Aside from this, the best ways of lowering the risk of flu, are eating a well balanced diet, making sure you have your recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C and simple hygiene.”
The results also found that overall, flu levels across the UK appear to be down on last year, with the flu season apparently curbed by a lack of illness among children and young people.
During the winter season, only 4.7% of reports were positive for flu-like symptoms compared with 6% last year.
Children also appeared to have lower levels of flu-like illness than last year, with just 5% reporting symptoms this flu season compared with 7.9% last year.
Maria Camanes Fores, Chemist Direct, +44 1215414952 Ext: 205, [email protected]
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