Applaud yourself if you routinely get your workouts in early each day. National fitness expert and published author Brent Bishop says that habit is a great way to set yourself up for success! But should you skip working out if you feel sick? During this “Virginia This Morning” interview on CBS-TV affiliate WTVR, Bishop revealed the answer to this common question.
“Moderate exercise can help boost your immune system and may actually make you feel a little better,” he advised. But he cautioned that workouts that are too intense may have the opposite effect because they’ll temporarily suppress your immune system.
“Here’s the rule of thumb: If the symptoms are above the neck (such as runny eyes, runny nose) but no fever, then you’re probably going to benefit from some moderate exercise,” he continued. “But if the symptoms are below the neck (sore throat, body aches, fever), you’d better take some days off.”
To support a healthy immune system, Bishop recommended plenty of hydration. “Remember 16:8:1. That’s 16 ounces of water prior to your workout, 8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes, then 1 liter for every kilogram of body weight lost.”
Then he revealed his secret for supporting immune health.
He explained that the body naturally produces the powerful Master Antioxidant glutathione, but that our glutathione production declines with age. “There’s a product called Continual-G®. It’s the only product that contains Glyteine®, which has been clinically validated to increase your production of glutathione naturally. Healthy levels of glutathione are going to help you stay healthy ... help you recover faster – even post-exercise muscle recovery.”
Keep watching his interview to learn which other immune-supporting foods and nutrients he suggests taking during cold and cough season, and to hear why alternating your workout intensity throughout the week may help you experience fewer sick days
