Children who are more physically active could be less susceptible to respiratory tract infections like the common cold, according to a new study.
The research, published in Pediatric Research, comes as it was revealed that less than 25% of children are estimated to participate in at least an hour of physical activity each day.
Researchers measured the physical activity levels and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections - like coughing or sneezing - of 104 children aged 4 to 7 between 2018 and 2019.
As children increased the daily average amount of steps taken by 1,000, the number of days they experienced symptoms decreased by an average of 4.1 days.
Kids who exercise more less likely to get respiratory infection
Children who participated in three or more hours of physical activity experienced fewer days with symptoms than those who did not.
One group of children whose average daily steps was over 5,600 experienced symptoms more often than another group whose average daily steps was over 9,300.
The study speculates higher physical activity levels result in reduced levels of proteins associated with chronic inflammation and disease while improving the immune system’s responses.
The data analyzed by researchers was collected by the childrens’ parents.
Only 24% of children aged 6 to 17 participate in at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Physical inactivity
Physical inactivity can:
- Lead to energy imbalance and can increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese
- Increase the risk of factors for cardiovascular disease, including hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, obesity, and insulin resistance and glucose intolerance
- Increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes
- Increase the risk for developing breast, colon, endometrial, and lung cancer
- Lead to low bone density, which in turn, leads to osteoporosis.
Benefits of physical activity
The amount of physical activity recommended for children depends on their age, according to the CDC, though most health organizations suggest a 60-minute daily average.
Regular physical activity in children has already been linked to reduced risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity.
Other studies suggest that increased physical activity could lead to better grades and academic performance in addition to improved cognitive performance.