|
Latest News - Edition
14
LATEST NEWS will provide you with information
and handy hints for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Boost Your Immune System to Beat Winter
Colds/Flu
Introduction
As the weather becomes cooler and the cold
and flu season peaks, it is important to look after yourself.
Athletes may be extremely fit, but this does not protect them
from the risk of picking up bugs. In fact, athletes are often
at a higher risk of developing colds and upper respiratory
tract infections. It has been found that the combination of
large volumes of training and extremely low body fat levels
can increase the tendency to pick up a cold. Moderate exercise
is actually good for our immune system but athletes in full
time training can experience extra stress on all body systems,
including the immune system.
Colds and flu can have a negative effect on
training and performance. The aim is to keep your immune system
as strong as possible to help reduce the risk.
How does a healthy diet improve resistance
to colds and flu?
Consuming adequate vitamins and minerals is
essential for a healthy immune system. This can be achieved
by following some easy steps:
- Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables
- Enjoy hearty vegetable soups
- Keep up your fluids
- Ensure adequate protein intake
- Minimal high fat/sugar processed foods
- Multi-vitamin/mineral DAILY
Many athletes have extremely low body fat levels
and this can increase the risk of getting sick easily. Eating
enough total kilojoules through regular meals and snacks and
including some healthy fats in the diet helps ensure body
fat levels do not get too low.
Healthy fats are found in foods such as:
- fish and seafood
- nuts and seeds
- avocado
- olive/canola oil
- peanut butter
These foods need to be consumed in volumes
that are appropriate for the individual to ensure the right
balance of good fats.
Eating well is an essential part of preparation
and a balanced intake can help boost the immune system to
keep you fit and healthy.
Lisa Sutherland
Sports Dietitian & Fitness Consultant
Mobile: 0414 574 678
Website: www.lisasutherland.com
PAST
LATEST NEWS
Lisa Middleton,
Sports Dietitian & Fitness Consultant
Website: www.lisamiddleton.com.au
Top of Page
|
