Examining the Question: Is It Safe to Engage in Physical Activity During Illness with Flu Symptoms?
Two Eggs a Day: A Heart-Healthy Choice?
New research suggests that incorporating two eggs into your daily diet, as part of a low-saturated fat regime, could potentially lower levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol, challenging the long-held belief that eggs contribute to increased cholesterol and heart disease risk.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, participants who consumed two eggs daily as part of a low-saturated fat diet experienced a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol, the type linked to artery clogging and cardiovascular disease. This reduction was attributed to eggs' high cholesterol but low saturated fat content, setting them apart from foods high in saturated fat that raise LDL levels.
Cardiologists are increasingly endorsing whole eggs as part of a healthy diet, while advising to reduce saturated fat sources like red meat, coconut oil, and palm oil in people concerned about cholesterol. Eggs provide essential nutrients such as vitamins B6, B12, D, protein, and choline, which contribute to overall heart health and weight management.
However, when it comes to exercise during illness, a different set of rules applies. The Exercise Immunology Review advises individuals to listen to their bodies and adjust their exercise routine accordingly during a cold. High-intensity exercise should be avoided during the acute phase of a cold, as it could potentially worsen symptoms and slow recovery.
The American College of Sports Medicine suggests that moderate exercise might help reduce the duration of a cold, but the Exercise Immunology Review recommends consulting a healthcare provider before resuming exercise after a cold. Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial during exercise while sick, as highlighted by the Exercise Immunology Review.
For more information on exercising after getting sick, you can refer to NYU Langone Health and Mayo Clinic. If you're curious about the safety of exercising when sick, UCSF Health and Mayo Clinic also have valuable insights. Harvard Health Publishing also provides resources on when to resume exercise after the flu.
The Exercise Immunology Review also raises questions about whether exercise can affect immune function and increase susceptibility to infection, and about the impact of exercise on the severity of cold symptoms. The CDC has resources for diagnosing the flu, and they encourage you to seek medical attention if you suspect you have the flu.
For a more visual approach, Mayo Clinic has a YouTube video titled "Should you exercise when sick: Dr. Montero". In this video, Dr. Montero discusses the pros and cons of exercising while sick and provides guidance on when it's safe to resume exercise.
In summary, while two eggs a day can be heart-healthy and may lower bad cholesterol if paired with a diet low in saturated fats, it's essential to exercise caution during illness. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice on exercise and diet during sickness.
[1] https://www.ajcn.org/action/doi/10.1093/ajcn/nqac089 [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6463359/ [3] https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition/eggs-and-heart-health [4] https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/eggs/
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice on health matters.
Engaging in fitness and exercise, while beneficial for general health and wellness, requires extra caution when medical-conditions like colds or the flu are present. While a diet that includes two eggs daily, as part of a low-saturated fat diet, could potentially lower bad LDL cholesterol levels, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on health matters, including exercise and diet during sickness.
