Do you exercise with a cold?

If you have a cold, it may generally be better not to exercise intensively. A cold is usually a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, and it can cause various symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion and fatigue. Exercise can temporarily weaken your immune system and slow down the recovery process.

Here are a few reasons why it's usually better not to exercise with a cold:

1. Increased risk of complications: If you're already weakened by the common cold, practicing vigorous exercise can put even more strain on your body and increase the risk of complications, such as developing a secondary bacterial infection.

2. Dehydration: Exercise can lead to fluid loss through sweating, which can worsen your symptoms. It's important to stay hydrated when you're sick, and exercising can make it harder to stay hydrated.

3. Spreading disease: If you work out in a public gym or exercise with others, you risk infecting other people with your cold virus. It is best not to expose others to the possibility of infection.

However, it's important to note that these are general guidelines and the severity of your cold may play a role. If you only have mild symptoms and you generally feel well enough to exercise, you may be able to try a light activity such as a gentle walk. However, it is always wise to listen to your own body and rest if you feel too sick to exercise.

Is exercising at all useful or smart when you are sick?

In general, it is not recommended to exercise intensively when you are sick. When you are sick, your body needs rest and recovery time to heal. Exercise can further weaken your immune system and slow down the recovery process. Here are some reasons why exercising while sick may not be helpful:

1. Increased risk of complications: Exercising when you are sick can put extra strain on your body and increase the risk of complications. Your immune system may already be weakened by the disease, and intense exercise can worsen symptoms and delay recovery.

2. Dehydration: Exercise can lead to fluid loss through sweating, which can contribute to dehydration. It's important to stay hydrated when you're sick, and exercising can make it harder to maintain this balance.

3. Spreading disease: If you exercise in a public gym or exercise with others, you risk infecting other people with your disease. It is best not to expose others to the possibility of infection.

If you really want to exercise during illness, you can opt for mild activities such as a gentle walk. But always listen to your body and stop if you feel too weak. It is important to give yourself time to recover.

Take and use nutritional supplements against illness

Taking supplements can complement a healthy lifestyle, but it is important to note that supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and medical advice. Although some supplements claim to boost the immune system or protect against disease, the scientific evidence is often limited and inconsistent.

However, there are some supplements that have been shown to have a positive effect on the immune system and overall health. Some of these supplements include:

1. Vitamin C: Vitamin C plays an important role in the immune system and can help fight infections. Taking extra vitamin C during illness may reduce the duration and severity of colds.

2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a role in regulating the immune system. A vitamin D deficiency can weaken immune function. Consult a doctor to check your vitamin D levels and recommend a supplement if necessary.

3. Zinc: Zinc is involved in many enzymatic reactions in the body and plays a role in the immune system. It can help reduce the duration and severity of colds.

Our multivitamin contains 100% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. This way you can be sure that you are getting enough of it.

However, it is important not to exceed the recommended dosages of these supplements and to seek advice from a doctor or dietitian before deciding to take supplements, especially if you are taking other medications or have health problems.

Remember that a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding stress is the best way to support your immune system and prevent disease.