The scientist spoke about the role of regular exercise for cell health

Modern research shows that regular physical activity affects not only the functioning of the heart, lungs and muscles, but also the state of the immune system. People who have been involved in endurance sports for many years, such as running, swimming, or cycling, show a more stable immune response and a lower tendency to inflammatory reactions. Mikhail Bolkov, a researcher at the Institute for the Study of Aging at the Russian State Scientific and Clinical Center of the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov, told Izvestia on October 11 about how physical activity can "train" the immune system and protect the body from premature aging.

The immunologist noted that physical activity improves the functioning of all organs and tissues, as well as significantly prolongs life. He stressed that movement is indeed the source of life: according to him, it reliably prolongs it, and although different types of physical activity affect the body in different ways, the regularity of classes remains the decisive factor. The expert explained that even short but regular workouts, such as walking, light games or socializing, performed daily as a ritual, enhance the vital activity of the body.

According to Bolkov, the immune system ages along with the body, and old cells produce factors that attract cells of the immune system, causing low-intensity chronic inflammation.

"When the immune system is in a healthier and more adequate state, it reacts less to such stimuli, and, consequently, inflammation occurs less frequently. And thus organs and tissues wear out less," the immunologist explained.

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In addition, physical activity has a positive effect on various types of blood cells, including NK cells, T cells, and cells responsible for bone, cartilage, and muscle tissue. Bolkov explained that without movement, there is no activation of the genes responsible for maintaining the life and development of these tissues.

"Regularity is more important than intensity. Speaking of age, you can start exercising at any age, whether you're 60 or even 80. But it is important not to harm yourself, you should not strive to set records," the expert added.

In the course of research, it has been proven that physical activity has a greater effect on the body than even high-quality nutrition. According to Bolkov, movement is vital and reliably prolongs a person's life. He added that it's never too late to start exercising — physical activity is even more important than following modern diets. In addition, it is important to lead a generally healthy lifestyle: observe sleep patterns and eat adequately.

In addition, the quality of nutrition also plays an important role: the diet should be based on a minimum content of fried, smoked and refined foods, but with sufficient amounts of protein, plant foods and omega-3 fats. Bolkov noted that the combination of a balanced diet with regular physical activity creates optimal conditions for improving health and prolonging life.

Regular physical activity is not only the prevention of cardiovascular and muscle diseases, but also an effective way to maintain the immune system in a healthy state, slow down the aging process and increase the body's resistance to stress and infections.

Medical Xpress magazine reported that regular exercise strengthens not only muscles, lungs and heart, but also the immune system. This is the conclusion reached by researchers from an international team who studied elderly people with a history of long—term endurance training - running, swimming, cycling, rowing and long walks.

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