The best defense against the cold and flu is at least three hours of physical activity per day, according to a study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology.

Exercise has a positive impact on the immune system.

Moderate exercise and physical activity enhance immunity and reduce the rate of upper respiratory infections. Stress and obesity suppress the immune system.

Thomas J. Cieslek, a researcher with Brock University in Ontario, Canada analyzed the immunity, physical fitness levels, stress levels, and body fat in a group of fifth-grade children.

The study was conducted from May to June, which is a moderate to high infection season in Canada.
Cieslek found that 22% of the boys and 32% of the girls did not get three hours of physical activity per day. These children had a significantly lowered immune system, more body fat and reported more sick days than active children.

In addition, 40% of the inactive children had more than 25% body fat; these children reported more colds and flu than other children in the study.

Based on the results of the study, Cieslek recommends that parents improve the health of their children by getting them involved in regular physical activity.

SOURCE: Journal of Applied Physiology, December 2003, Vol. 95, pp. 2315-2320; WebMD Health, www.my.webmd.com, December 23, 2003

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