According to the American Heart Association, we should be getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. How much exercise a week are you getting?

While you might think of weight loss when you think of exercise, that’s not the only benefit. When you exercise regularly, your body reaps the benefits, both physically and mentally.

Since we’re in the middle of cold and flu season, our team at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina wants to focus on one key benefit—boosting your immune system.

What Happens to Your Body When You Exercise?

When you begin to exercise, your heart rate begins to increase. An increased heart rate allows more oxygen to circulate in the blood at a faster rate.

As you begin to gain stamina, your heart rate lowers. This lower heart rate helps to lower your blood pressure level, which can help you to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Benefits of Exercise

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Build stronger muscles and bones
• Increase energy levels
• Improve skin health
• Reduce risk of chronic disease
• Help brain and memory

How Does Exercise Improve Your Immune System?

Along with circulating more oxygen within the blood stream, exercise can also help you to flush out bacteria that could be located in your lungs and airways. This bacteria could be the result of a cold, flu or other illness.

In addition to helping get rid of bacteria, exercise can also help change our body’s antibodies and white blood cells, which also play an important role in fighting disease.

How to Strengthen the Immune System

• Avoid smoking.
• Eat a diet full of fruits and vegetables.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Find effective ways to manage stress.

Our mission at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina is to provide affordable, high-quality health care to those across the state of North Carolina!