Istanbul Gelisim University - Exercising reduces the risk of infection

Exercising reduces the risk of infection

Explaining the effects of exercise on the immune system, Physiotherapist Gülşah Konakoğlu said: “While mild and moderate exercise reduces the risk of upper respiratory infections, intense and high intensity exercise increases the risk.”

Indicating that the effect of exercise on immune system functions depends on many variables, Physiotherapist Lect. Gülşah Konakoğlu from Istanbul Gelisim University said: “There are many variables such as intensity, duration, intensity and physical fitness level of the individual during exercises. The mechanisms underlying exercise-related immune system changes are multifactorial. Neuroendocrinological, physiological and metabolic factors play an important role in the effects of exercise on the immune system.”

“DO NOT EXCEED THE TIME LIMIT”

Emphasizing that moderate exercise increases immune system functions, Physiotherapist Lect. Gülşah Konakoğlu stated: “Furthermore, immunity caused by exercise, old age and stress reduces the risk of suppression in the system and cancer. However, when the threshold level is exceeded in terms of the intensity and duration of the exercise, the risk of infection increases with the increasing severity and duration.”

Indicating that the period when immunity gets weakened after exercise is called the “open window” period, Konakoğlu said as follows:

“The exercise ends in 3 to 72 hours, depending on the type, severity, duration and immunity level. In this period called open window; microorganisms, especially viruses, can enter into the body and cause infections. Therefore, nutrition and adequate rest after exercise are important in preventing the negative effects of severe exercise.”

CONSUMING CARBOHYDRATE IS BENEFICIAL

Mentioned that carbohydrate is one of the most important nutrients that reduces immunity in intensive long-term exercises, Konakoğlu said: “For this reason, long-lasting brisk exercises should start consuming 7-10 g / kg of carbohydrate per day through food consisting of sufficient carbohydrate. Consuming 30 - 60 g of carbohydrates per hour during exercise will provide enough fuel for training, while also reducing the negative effects of exercise. It is appropriate for people who exercise for healthy life to prefer moderate and stress free exercise types in order to increase immune system functions.”