Research Finds Cycling Improves Your Immune System

Photo Credit: HonoluluFamily.com

According to a recent study, markers for immune health were higher in cyclists than those who didn't exercise at all. This doesn't come as too much of a surprise to us because we all know the importance of exercise to health. However, the level of T-cell activity in the cyclists were the same as that of young adults in their 20s. (T-cells are known to help the immune system fight infections).

This research was posted in the journal Aging Cell. One of the authors, Professor Janet Lord, is also the director of the Institute of Inflammation and Ageing at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. She says, "The immune system declines by about 2-3% a year from our 20s, which is why older people are more susceptible to infections, conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and, potentially, cancer."

The research looked at 125 very active adult cyclists who were between the ages 55 and 79. Professor Lord adds "Because the cyclists have the immune system of a 20-year-old rather than a 70- or 80- year-old, it means they have added protection against all these issues."

Find the time throughout the week, and even on the weekends to get oustide and go for a ride with your keiki and/or your parents. Live a healthy and active life!

Read more from the article here. And in Time.