Research Question of the Week: Exercise Immunology

[Venom]

There have been hundreds of wars during the history of man, and many casualties have resulted. In response to this, we have spent billions of dollars on high tech defenses, including aircrafts, tanks, bombs, and guns. But the frequency and number of these wars are no comparison to the war we face on a daily bases with the unseen enemy. In fact, humans are constantly bombarded by billions of potentially dangerous viruses, parasites, and bacteria, so microscopic in size, that they cannot be detected by the human eye (Plowman & Smith, 2003). Fortunately for us, the human body was marvelously designed with a defense mechanism far superior to any human manufacturing (Behe, 1996).

Our first line of defense is our skin. This is displayed in burned victims, who have a significantly greater number of infections (Behe, 1996). If these invaders breach our first line of defense, then they must encounter a military more complex than any army in the world—the human immune system (Behe, 1996).

The immune system is an organized structure of cells, hormones, and chemicals that regulates our susceptibility and recovery from pathogens which cause various illnesses (Marieb, 2004). This system recognizes potentially harmful substances in the body, and works quickly to eradicate them before they can do damage. Unfortunately, the enemies against our bodies never cease attacking. Therefore, if our immune system is impaired, we risk the chance of acquiring potentially deadly diseases. For this reason, scientists have dedicated countless hours of research on ways to enhance immune function. One such investigation is the effect of exercise stress on the immune system.

For more information on exercise stress read the thread in this forum on the topic.

The purpose of this thread was to analyze the effects of exercise on immune function.

Questions that arise are: what are the effects of exercise intensity, duration, modality (i.e. resistence vs aeorobic training), and frequency of training on the immune system. What about overtraining? Also, should I train when I am sick?

Let me know your thoughts!

I am doing intense investigation on this. The topic is insane, and there are hundreds of studies on this.

[Venom]

Ok, so it is important when researching, to make some predictions before you start. So here is what I predicted based on my research, as I began getting deep into this incredible investigation. You will notice that I attempt to opperationally define all my terms. This is a vital componenet of science!

I would like to hear our guys predictions on this issue, even if you have not done to much research. Based on your experience, what have you found to be the case in your life? Does exercise seem to enhance your immune system?





Hans Selye is considered by many to be the father of the study of stress (McEwen, 2002). Based on his work as a Hungarian scientist, Selye (1936) suggested that the body had a general mechanism to cope with stressors. Stressors can be defined as anything that causes the stress response; they may consist of various stimuli in the environment, such as the climate, environment, or social conditions. These observations lead Selye to define stress as the nonspecific response of the body to any demand made upon it to adapt, whether that demand produces pleasure or pain. Based on the general nature of stress, he developed the infamous General Adaptation Theory (Figure 1). This theory suggests that stress is composed of three phases: alarm reaction, stage of resistance, and stage of exhaustion. During alarm reaction, the introduction of a stressor leads to a decrease in performance. Following this is the stage of resistance, in which the organism’s defense mechanisms fight to gain resistance. This is known as adaptation and is characterized by elevated levels of homeostasis. Lastly, if the stimulus is continuous then the individual would plateau or experience maladaptation (stage of exhaustion). The maladaptation according to Seyle reflected similar symptoms to the Alarm reaction stage, and was the result of a depletion of the organisms defense mechanisms caused by chronic stress.

While many view stress as a negative event, General Adaptation Theory demonstrates that while stress can have deleterious effects, it also plays an essential role in developing a healthy body, that is able to cope with the various demands thrown our way on a daily bases. Scientists have used this model to accurately make predictions, and explain observations in the environment (Simmons, 2006).

A second dominant theory is the fitness fatigue model developed by Banister, Calvert, and Savage (1975). The model views adaptation as a constant flux of growth and decay and further growth of the combination of two intervening variables on performance. Banister et al. (1975) denotes these variables as fitness or positive benefits and fatigue or negative effects, while performance is seen as the difference between the two. Therefore, if fatigue is greater than the fitness gains, performance will suffer, and visa versa.

In this context, the purpose of this thread was to analyze the effects of exercise on immune function, using the General Adaptation Theory and Fitness Fatigue Model. Based on the General Adaptation Theory, it was hypothesized that exercise would in many cases, acutely suppress immune function (alarm reaction), followed by an adaptation, characterized by elevated levels of immune function (stage of resistance). However, if the stressor of exercise was beyond the bodies capacity to cope, the immune system would plateau or experience maladaptation (stage of exhaustion). Using the fitness and fatigue model, it is predicted that exercise elicits two effects on the immune system—fitness and fatigue effects. When markers of immune function are improved, this would indicate the fitness effects were higher; conversely, when markers of immune function decrease, this would indicate that the fatigue aspect of exercise was more salient.

The topic of stress has been studied for almost a century now. Yet, there is no general consensus on the definition of stress. However, it is important to operationally define the term, so that it can be used in an applied situation. In this context, the current paper will view stress as an imbalance between demands and response capabilities when failure to meet the demands results in a disturbance in homeostasis. Typically, stress must be inferred from acute or chronic adaptations or maladaptations.

[tarheelsykes]

what a great thread to consider.
overall I feel exercise increases the ability of the immune system. The fact that it decreases body fat, increases muscle mass, trains the heart, lungs etc it keeps everything in better working order, thus decreasing the susceptibiliy to viruses,etc.
some of the other effects, muscular contractions help the lymphatic system to flow as it should, preventing backup of lymph in the body which could lead to health issues as this waste material is allowed to sit in the body and not be released. exercise also helps to regulate colon contractions, so helps prevent constipation, ibs issues etc.
on the concern of overtraining, I definitely feel it will weaken the immune system. unfortunately our diets today can be deficient in vitamins, minerals, amino acids etc the body needs to recover. constant overtraining will add to this. one specific example is it will cause competition between the muscle mass and colon for glutamine, this will lead to a weakening of the intestinal lining (where approximately 70% of our immune system resides) which will increase susceptibility to viruses, bacteria, parasites and candida overgrowth.

[Venom]

You are right on, bro. There is a great Model on the relationship between exercise and immune function. Let me give a brief introduction to it. I'll post more info proggresively.

The J-Curve and Open Window Hypotheses

While many claim that exercise decreases the frequency and potency of sicknesses, others claim that exercise increases a person’s risk of illness. Evidence suggests that both sides may be right, depending on the frequency, intensity, and volume of exercise, as well as diet. In this context, intensity refers to percent of a one repetition maximal performance—such as a one repetition maximum, VO2 max, or heart rate maximum. Volume can be defined as sets multiplied by repetitions; when the objective task requires the participant to carry his or her own body over long distances, such as in swimming, bicycling, and running, then volume can be defined as the distance covered, or duration of the activity. And frequency can be defined as the number of training sessions over a period of time. Lastly, diet refers to the number of calories consumed per day, and the composition of those calories.

Several epidemiological studies (large scale data, among populations and countries, that don’t control variables) commonly based on self report symptoms, have indicated that upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) such as a runny nose, sore throat, or coughing are significantly greater for 1-2 weeks after strenuous exercise such as marathon races (Heath, Ford, Craven, Macera, Jackson, & Pate, 1991; Nieman, Johanssen, & Lee. 1989). Conversely, other studies have indicated that moderate training volume and intensity may enhance immune function (Nieman et al., 1993). For instance, Nieman et al. (1990, a) investigated the relationship between improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness, and acute URTI. Participants consisted of 36 mildly obese women who were instructed to briskly walk at 60% of their max heart rate for 5 45 minute sessions per week for 15 weeks. Based on daily logs kept by the participants, the results indicated that the exercise condition had significantly fewer URTI symptoms, days, and incidents ( =3.6) than the non exercising condition ( =7.0 days). And there was a significant correlation with improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and reduction in URTI (r=.37. p=.025).

Conflicting results such as these has lead to the development of the J-Shaped Curve Hypothesis (Nieman, Johanssen, Lee, & Arabatzis, 1990, b). This hypothesis suggests that people who perform moderate intensity, volume, and frequency of exercise are less susceptible to disease than sedentary individuals, due to a strengthened immune system; conversely, frequent high volume and intensity exercise was predicted to result in a linear suppression of immune function. This has further given rise to the Open Window Hypothesis, which suggests that the suppression in immune function following exercise may result in a period of increased susceptibility to disease. While this hypothesis is not universally accepted, and more research needs to be done to support it, there are several studies which bring credence to its recommendations.


I'll post more evidence on this soon!

[TForce]

Kind of interesting, that I had been thinking about this topic over the past week or so, as well. 4 or 5 years ago, I had some kind of chronic allergic reaction going on. I would spit up phlegm almost on a continual basis. I had x-rays done to test for tuberculosis? which showed a clear chest, so they were somewhat stumped as to what it may have been. After 6-12 months of cardio (this was when I first started working out seriously after a layoff of several years), things started clearing up. However, what I noticed was that when I would ease up on the cardio, only doing it say once or twice a week, it would start getting worse.

Recently, when I got this strep throat or whatever it was, I was a bit feverish and decided to try a little experiment and do some cardio. Since I never, ever, ever get truly sick, I figured that maybe my immune system might need some extra stimulation, especially since I had not worked out in a week. However, knowing that when you are truly sick, you are "supposed to" get rest, I wanted to see what effects it would have. For one, I could only go for about 20 minutes. If I would have done it for the entire 40, I probably would have passed out. Secondly, it seemed to actually set back my recovery a bit, reverting a few days. After a few weeks, I am pretty much back to normal, though still with a trace of hoarseness. I read that the bacterial form of strep, if not treated properly, can leave you with an ongoing case of rheumatic fever, which kind of concerns me, though I am not even sure if what I had was strep, though my voice was sounding pretty bad. I don't feel feverish at all, so that is probably not the case. I have been working out this week with lots of energy, completely sugar-free and caffeine-free. It's amazing how it easy it is to kill those two birds with one stone, since all they really do is off-set each other. Maybe it was the viral version and I just need to focus on getting more rest by cutting the excess salt out of my diet which was giving me some hypertension.

I would have to conclude that when you are feverish and truly sick, it is probably not such a good thing to be working out, weakening your body's resources, and endangering the people around you, though in some cases, it can be beneficial, as evidenced by my prior experience. I would be the type to venture that maybe other systems come into play, such as the effects of testosterone, though that would be way out of my league.

[Venom]

Thanks for the great post!

I have not come to a firm conclusion on the effects of exercise when you have a cold. They have not done many studies on this from what I have seen, which is strange. Just several recommendations based on the research.

From what I read, you should not exercise with a fever, as it may increase the risk of dehydration, heatstroke, and other problems. If you have above the neck" signs, such as a runny rose, sneezing or a sore throat, I have seen several sources recommend exercising at moderate intensities, moderate volumes. Here is a quote from what I have read from several sources, as well:

[ QUOTE ]
* Do a "neck check" of your symptoms first. If you have "above the neck" signs, such as a runny rose, sneezing or a sore throat, moderate exercise is generally safe as long as you do not have a fever. You can resume intense workouts as soon as the symptoms disappear. If you have "below the neck" signs, such as extreme tiredness, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, swollen lymph glands or a hacking cough, allow at least two weeks before returning to intense training. (By the way, the "neck check" was developed by The American Running Association's Editorial Board Member Randy Eichner, M.D., and is now widely recognized as the standard test to determine whether to take to the bed or the roads.)

[/ QUOTE ]

But again, I have not seen studies which actually substantiate this. It makes sense, but they need to do actual studies on this.

I haven't read the last couple posts yet, but I had an idea, and I only have a sec - I'll check back after work. But, because we usually sweat during exercise, our pores open up, exposing the first layer of defense - our skin! Do you think that would make us more suseptible to germs?

Be back later

[stillflabby]

This is a very interesting topic for me. As I have always proffessed that if one just has a cough, or runny nose, exercise is the best cure. Anything that affects the entire body, that does not get better with hydration, should be rested. I say hydration because I notice sometimes in the mornings when I'm dehydrated I have the symptoms of a sickness worse than just a common cold. I'll be achy, weak, "fog" brained, etc.

On reading these posts, I noticed a couple things I think I can comment on.

For instance the following from Venom's post:
[ QUOTE ]
Several epidemiological studies (large scale data, among populations and countries, that don’t control variables) commonly based on self report symptoms, have indicated that upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) such as a runny nose, sore throat, or coughing are significantly greater for 1-2 weeks after strenuous exercise such as marathon races (Heath, Ford, Craven, Macera, Jackson, & Pate, 1991; Nieman, Johanssen, & Lee. 1989).

[/ QUOTE ]

At least in this case, the marathon race would have likely happend outside. Now, while running outside for this distance, you are moving HUGE volumes of air through your lungs. Greatly increasing the likelyhood of breathing in alergens, toxins, airborn viruses and bacteria. And since controls are not the best in these typs of studies, it's hard to say what caused the symptoms.
That being said, I think it is quite likely that the combination of the increased possibility of assault on the immune system and the severely taxed body from the running would increase the chance of sickness. I personally don't think this particular study can be used to make any conclusions one way or another.


[ QUOTE ]
I haven't read the last couple posts yet, but I had an idea, and I only have a sec - I'll check back after work. But, because we usually sweat during exercise, our pores open up, exposing the first layer of defense - our skin! Do you think that would make us more suseptible to germs?

[/ QUOTE ]

I think absolutely not. When you sweat, you flush toxins out of your system, and out of your skin. The sweat will push things out of your pores and leave them on the surface of the skin. And then when you shower afterwards, you wash these toxins away. I think using this same logic, anything you do that opens the pores would leave you open to invasion, including standing in the sun. Even still the pores don't open directly to the blood stream, which is the real danger I believe. Great thinking though. Everything that looks like it might contribute should be investigated...and I could be completely wrong...but I don't think so /forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif Not trying to be arrogant...

I really like the "neck check". I think it's a little narrow though. I think it's a good idea to look at it systemically. If you have something wrong that's localized, you should be fine. But if it's all over, you need rest. For instance. Your shoulder aches, exercise will likely help clear it up. But if your entire body aches, you should hydrate and rest.
Of course this is just a generalization of the neck rule expanded to the rest of the body.

I personally think that exercise clears up most problems if you "hit it hard" before the sickness really sets in. I know when I feel a cold coming on, if I do a really good cardio session, I rarely get any worse. I think there are at least two reasons for this: heat and blood flow.
Two lines of defense the body uses when things "get bad" are fever and tachycardia (increasing blood flow). I think by placing the body into these states with exercise are a huge benefit and take care of things before they "get bad". High fever is an attempt to kill off viruses and bacteria. Increased blood flow carries toxins and antigens to the body's filters to discard them. So when we exercise, this is happening while we are healthy. So anything that might be trying to establish a "beach head" to use the war analogy, will get swept away and killed before it has a chance. Also one of the most healing and vital substance we have access to is oxygen. And clearly exercise gets oxygen moving around in much larger quantities.

Anyone have any thoughts on what I've said? I'd love to hear other opinions. I think this thread will get very interesting.

Just my $.02 /forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Venom]

[ QUOTE ]

I haven't read the last couple posts yet, but I had an idea, and I only have a sec - I'll check back after work. But, because we usually sweat during exercise, our pores open up, exposing the first layer of defense - our skin! Do you think that would make us more suseptible to germs?

[/ QUOTE ]

I have never heard that, but I think that is a great postulation, bro. I am going to have to look into that more. Thanks!

[Venom]

Hi, SF

Great questions and thank for your incite.

[ QUOTE ]
Anything that affects the entire body, that does not get better with hydration, should be rested. I say hydration because I notice sometimes in the mornings when I'm dehydrated I have the symptoms of a sickness worse than just a common cold. I'll be achy, weak, "fog" brained, etc.


[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, that is what a lot of people say. You have to be super careful with hydration issues.

Speaking of hydration, many have suggested dehydration suppresses immune function. This is because studies show that hydration decreases cortisol, and dehydration elevates it. I’ll discuss this in a moment, but cortisol is the number 1 suggested culprit for immune suppression, so this would make sense. But the ONE study I read on this should not support it. It had a lot of flaws though. I’ll have to research that more, because it makes a ton of sense. I don’t see how that would not be the case.

[ QUOTE ]

At least in this case, the marathon race would have likely happend outside. Now, while running outside for this distance, you are moving HUGE volumes of air through your lungs. Greatly increasing the likelyhood of breathing in alergens, toxins, airborn viruses and bacteria. And since controls are not the best in these typs of studies, it's hard to say what caused the symptoms.
That being said, I think it is quite likely that the combination of the increased possibility of assault on the immune system and the severely taxed body from the running would increase the chance of sickness. I personally don't think this particular study can be used to make any conclusions one way or another.

[/ QUOTE ]

I really like that point, bro.

No, those type of studies can not be used to substantiate anything. They are correlative, which are not causal studies. But they support the hypothesis. I’ll show some more evidence momentarily. But I like your ideas on inhaling toxins, etc. Really good thoughts.

[ QUOTE ]

I think absolutely not. When you sweat, you flush toxins out of your system, and out of your skin. The sweat will push things out of your pores and leave them on the surface of the skin. And then when you shower afterwards, you wash these toxins away. I think using this same logic, anything you do that opens the pores would leave you open to invasion, including standing in the sun. Even still the pores don't open directly to the blood stream, which is the real danger I believe. Great thinking though. Everything that looks like it might contribute should be investigated...and I could be completely wrong...but I don't think so Not trying to be arrogant...

[/ QUOTE ]

Nice points. Again, I have not heard much on this, so I think it should be investigated.

[ QUOTE ]

I personally think that exercise clears up most problems if you "hit it hard" before the sickness really sets in. I know when I feel a cold coming on, if I do a really good cardio session, I rarely get any worse. I think there are at least two reasons for this: heat and blood flow.
Two lines of defense the body uses when things "get bad" are fever and tachycardia (increasing blood flow). I think by placing the body into these states with exercise are a huge benefit and take care of things before they "get bad". High fever is an attempt to kill off viruses and bacteria. Increased blood flow carries toxins and antigens to the body's filters to discard them. So when we exercise, this is happening while we are healthy. So anything that might be trying to establish a "beach head" to use the war analogy, will get swept away and killed before it has a chance. Also one of the most healing and vital substance we have access to is oxygen. And clearly exercise gets oxygen moving around in much larger quantities.

[/ QUOTE ]


That is really interesting.

Heat is something I am still investigating; it may have differential effects. It increases hormones that may enhance immune functions, and those which may hinder it.

I think all these thoughts are great. Ultimately, a combination of these things are the culprit.

[Venom]

Here is some evidence supporting that J-curve and open window hypothesis.

Nieman et al. (1990, b) investigated the incidence of URTI in a group of 2,311 marathon runners who varied widely in running ability and training habits. Within weeks following the Los Angeles marathon race, results indicated that 12.9% of the marathon runners reported sicknesses compared to only 2.2% of control runners who did not participate in the marathon. Further, runners training in the 96 KM/week + races doubled their chance of sickness compared to runners who trained for less than 32 KM/week. Rohde, Maclean, and Pedersen (1998) had healthy male participants perform 3 bouts of bicycle exercise lasting 60, 45, and 30 minutes at 75% VO2 max, respectively, separated by 2 hours of rest. Results indicated that lymphocyte (cells vital for immune function) concentrations declined 2 hours after each bout of exercise, and lymphokine activated killer (LAK; another vital component of the immune system) declined 2 hours after the third workout.

Overtraining can briefly be defined as a chronic decrease in performance over time. It is associated with many adverse effects including excess fatigue, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, prolonged recovery, and suppressed immune function (Lucille & Smith 2004). The aforementioned studies are consistent with investigations on Overtraining Syndrome (OTS), which indicate that over trained athletes are more susceptible to colds, allergies, increased incidences of infections, and swollen lymph glands (Fry, Norton, & Keast, 1991; Nieman & Pederson, 1999).

Davis et al. (2004) investigated the effects of short term moderate exercise on URTI in mice. Participants exercised 1 hour per day at 68-78% of their VO2 max for 6 consecutive days. Results indicated that moderate exercise can decrease the susceptibility to an induced respiratory infection in mice. Similarly, Matthews et al. (2002) found that moderate physical activity was associated with a 20-30% reduction in annual risk of URTI in comparison to predominantly non-athletic adults.

A review of the literature by Mackinnon (1999) found various important implications. In general, the results of his review indicated that moderate amounts of exercise was associated with a transient increase in immune function, which then returns to baseline within a few hours. However, strenuous exercise results in a transient decline in immune function, which may last for several hours into recovery. Collectively, these results seem to support the J-curve and open window hypothesis.

I'll discuss some mechanisms next.

[stillflabby]

WOW, this is all very interesting.
So, dehydration decreases immune function.
dehydration increases cortisol
cortisol decreases immune function

Extreme exercise increases dehydration and cortisol. There by making your body more suseptible to sickness.

But moderate exercise, is usually followed by rehydration, and typically some sort of nutrition that decreases cortisol again. There by knocking back the affect both have on immune function.

This is all very cool.

[Venom]

Here are some mechanisms for acute immune responses to exercise.

The Cortisol & Catecholamine Hypothesis

Evidence suggests that there is a close interaction between the immune, endocrine, and nervous systems. These interactions are demonstrated by the presence of receptors for endocrine hormones in immune and nervous system structures (Madden & Felten, 1995), and the contact between the lymphoid gland and nervous system (Rabin, Moyna, Kusnecov, Zhoud, and Shur, 1996). Exercise results in an increase in sympathetic tone, and various hormones including catecholamines, growth hormone, -endorphins, testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol (Bente, Pedersen & Laurie, 2000). In this context, it has been suggested that the neuro-hormonal changes induced by exercised are what mediates the immune system alterations caused by physical activity. The hormones most commonly implicated for actions on the immune system are catecholamines and cortisol; therefore, this next section will discuss the impact of these two hormones on immune function.

The hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, collectively referred to as catecholamines, are released rapidly by the sympathetic nervous system, and with a delay by the adrenal medulla in response to exercise; further, they are increased linearly and exponentially with exercise intensity and duration (Kjaer & Dela, 1996). The receptors for these hormones are called adrenergic receptors (which can be subdivided into beta and alpha adrenergic receptors), and they appear to be plentiful on various immune cells (Madden & Felten, 1995), indicating that immune cells can be modulated by catecholamines. In light of this, many have suggested that catecholamines may be responsible for the exercise induced increase in immune function. This is supported by several experimental findings. First, epinephrine injections mimic the exercise induced increase in natural killer cells and lymphokine activated killer (Kappel et al., 1991); second, beta-adrenergic receptors are up regulated on natural killer cells during exercise (Maisel et al. 1990); and third, administrating beta-adrenergic antagonists eliminates lymphocytosis (white blood cell generation) during exercise, as well as natural killer cell cytosis (Klokker et al., 1997). Lastly, catecholamines rapidly decline after exercise, dissipating to baseline levels approximately 15 minutes upon cessation of exercise (Bush et al., 1999). The implications of this will be discussed shortly.

Cortisol is the primary glucocorticoid secreted from the zona fasciculate (zone 2) of the adrenal cortex (Inouye, 2006). Davies and Few (1973) examined the effect of duration and intensity on plasma cortisol levels. It was found that as duration and intensity increased, cortisol increased. However, they found what appeared to be a threshold for cortisol secretion at 60 % V02 max intensity. Therefore at lower intensities cortisol is primarily controlled by metabolic need. In this context, Sotsky, Shilo, and Shamoon (1989) investigated the effect of hypoglycemia on moderate intensity exercise, below 60 V02 max over 50 minutes of cycling in participants with normal blood glucose levels of 87 mg / dl, and in participants with low blood glucose levels of 59 mg / dl. No significant difference in cortisol levels were found in the normal glucose condition, while a 400 % increase (!) was found in the low glucose condition. Therefore it appears that under normal dieting conditions, cortisol secretion may not significantly rise during an hour of low intensity exercise. Lastly, cortisol is a slow acting hormone, with its effects taking place within 2 hours or longer after exercise (Bente, Pedersen & Laurie, 2000).

Cortisol shifts substrates away from carbohydrates, towards fats and proteins. One mechanism of action is stimulation of gluconeogenesis, typically of proteins. The implications of this on immune function is that antibodies and white blood cells are proteins, and are therefore, degraded by cortisol. In this context, it has been demonstrated cortisol administration stimulates lymphocytopenia, monocytopenia, and eosinopenia, (“penia” refers to a decrease in these cells, all of which are all vital to immune function), with a peak decline 4 hours after administration (Rabin et al., 1996).

Collectively, this has lead to the suggestion that catecholamines are responsible for lymphocytosis seen during and immediately after exercise; and cortisol is responsible for the decline in immune function seen for several hours after strenuous exercise. These results could be best explained by the fitness fatigue model—the fitness effects of exercise are most potently displayed during and immediately after exercise; however, once the fitness effects wear off, the fatigue effects set in, and degrade immune function.

[Mavrick]

im not completly sure what the question is...but ill give it a go

i think it sorta makes sence, for exersiing to increase your immune system, because it makes your blood pump, which makes nutrients in your body travel ALOT faster, which also alows all the white blood cells, and evertyhing else, be made at a faster, more efficent rate...and the obvious reason...hours you spend in that weight room...are hours ur not walking around sick people!

but as a side note, i havent gotten sick sence i started doing exersice in general, back before last summers f/b conditiong...id get sick atleast twice a month!, and now, i havent gotten sick in over 3/4 of a year

[Venom]

That makes a lot of sense, Mavrick. Really good theory.

You guys have given me some great ideas on where to investigate. Keep up the awesome discussion. /forum/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Anyway, here is another theory to consider on long term negative effects on immune function from exercise.

The Cytokine Hypothesis

A chronic decline in the immune system as a result of overtraining has been commonly explained by the Cytokine Hypothesis (Plowman and Smith, 2003). This suggests that prolonged high volume training results in damage to muscle and joints, and triggers an inflammatory response, which initiates a massive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines at moderate levels primarily causes local inflammation of muscle tissues; however, in excess, it can cause systemic inflammation of the nervous system, and endocrine system, explaining many of the side effects seen during overtraining such as depression, mood changes, and suppressed immune function (Plowman and Smith, 2003). Though more experiments are needed to substantiate this, evidence seems to lend credence to this hypothesis (Lucille & Smith 2004). For instance, one study found that after a marathon race, TNF- and IL- (two types of inflammatory cytokines) increased 2-fold, while IL-6 (another inflammatory cytokine) increased 50 fold (Ostrowski, Rohde, Zacho, and Pedersen, 1998). And several recent studies have found that various cytokines are prevalent in the plasma during and after exercise (Ostrowski, Rohde, Schjerling, and Pedersen, 1999; Ostrowski, Hermann, Bangash, Schjerling, Nielsen, and Pedersen, 1999). This hypothesis may be best explained by the General Adaptation Theory. If the stimulus is continuous then the individual will plateau or experience maladaptation (stage of exhaustion). The maladaptation according to Seyle reflected similar symptoms to the Alarm reaction stage, and was the result of a depletion of the organisms defense mechanisms caused by chronic stress.

I don't have any science to share, but just a few first hand experiences from the last week.

I came down with Strept throat AGAIN (the weather has been very mild this winter so there has been tons of sickness) about a week and a half ago. A few days into it, I went to the gym and did a fairly hardcore workout. It only made the symptoms worse. Two days after that, I did stretching, core strengthening, and relaxation for about 45 minutes. I felt better after I finished and it also gave me the desire to eat healthier (I have a hard time eating healthy when I am sick). So I did feel better after some movement and for consuming some healthy foods.

The sickness held on for a few more days, and I decided to just rest, drink lots of tea, water and vitamin C. I began to feel better 4 days ago. So I went to the gym and did a light full body workout. I felt my symptions quickly improve the day after. I took one day off, then went to train back and bi's. I went fairly hardcore, but concentrated on isolation exercises. Since then I have felt much better! I made it a point to get over 10 hours of sleep both last night and the night before and I think that helped a ton! Tonight I trained legs, so we shall see how I feel in the morning. (I can feel a sore throat coming on right now)

My experience has been that if I feel a cold coming on, or I am only mildly sick, a cardio session seems to help me get healthy quicker. Hardcore weightlifting totally racks my immune system and I need tons of sleep, vitamin C, glutamine, green tea and antioxidants to combat it!

[tarheelsykes]

excellent article venom. This is an example of why Omega 3's are so important in our diet, because they help decrease that inflammatory response, so it would be interesting to see the effect omega 3 supplementation would have on this effect

[stillflabby]

I'm wondering about effects on alergic response.
Tuesday was very nice, and we went out and hit some trails on our mountain bikes.
That night my nose stuffed up, and eyes got dry and itchy.
I've been lifting hard all week, and I'm still suffering from the symptoms.

Now I can't tell if I'm really tired, or if it's just the dry eyes making me feel tired. Either way I feel like crap from the neck up. Rest of my body seems fine though...nice and sore!! /forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Venom]

Great post, Trillian. Right now, based on the evidence, I am inclined to agree with your findings. It appears insane workouts will not really help your immune function. I still have a lot more to learn about this topic, but I could only advise moderate intensity workouts right now for enhancing the immune system. What you did was great.

[Venom]

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I'm wondering about effects on alergic response.
Tuesday was very nice, and we went out and hit some trails on our mountain bikes.
That night my nose stuffed up, and eyes got dry and itchy.
I've been lifting hard all week, and I'm still suffering from the symptoms.

Now I can't tell if I'm really tired, or if it's just the dry eyes making me feel tired. Either way I feel like crap from the neck up. Rest of my body seems fine though...nice and sore!!

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I have not read much on that. An allergic reaction is really a heightened immune response. I would have to look into that more.

I did, however, discuss something interesting with Dr. Simmons (an expert in stress management) the other day about allergic reactions.

Chronic stress may actually make people hypersensitive to allergies so that you begin to bronchodialate for instance, to less and less pollen, more often.

[Venom]

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excellent article venom. This is an example of why Omega 3's are so important in our diet, because they help decrease that inflammatory response, so it would be interesting to see the effect omega 3 supplementation would have on this effect

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That is a great point. I don’t recall reading much about the anti-inflammatory effects of food on immune suppression. Only about its influence on hormones.


You guys are giving me such great ideas. Thanks a lot!

And speaking of diet…here is some information. /forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif


Based on the evidence that hormones play an important role in immune function, it has been hypothesized that diet, particularly carbohydrates, could modulate the immune response to exercise. In this context, Kramer (as reported by Judy, 1995) investigated the effects of diet and exercise on immune function in 3 male and 1 female army training group. Participants were divided into four conditions. All three conditions of males metabolized 4,000 calories daily. Males in condition one consumed 1,300 fewer calories than they metabolized; males in condition two consumed 900 fewer calories than they metabolized; males in condition three consumed 250 fewer calories than they metabolized. Results indicated that t-cell response decreased by 50-60, 30, and 20% in condition one, two, and three, respectively. Conversely, the female group consumed an equal amount of calories to what they metabolized, and, improved t-cell response by 150-200 percent. The counfounding variable here could be gender differences; however, there seems to be a consistent trend that the immune system will be suppressed according to the magnitude of caloric deficit, when combined with physical activity.

Several studies have also indicated that carbohydrate consumption before, during and after exercise attenuates cortisol and other stress hormones, and diminishes the decline in immune function after exercise (Bente, Pedersen & Laurie, 2000). For instance, Nieman et al. (in press) investigated the effect of a carbohydrate fluid (6% carbohydrate beverage of Gatorade) ingestion on immune response to 2.5 hours of running. The drink was consumed before, 1 hour into the run, and immediately after the run. Results indicated that the carbohydrate solution significantly attenuated both cortisol and post exercise lymphocytopenia. However, carbohydrates have not been shown to abolish post exercise immune system impairment (Bente, Pedersen & Laurie, 2000).

[stillflabby]

This makes me wonder...
Tonight I bought a 1/2 gallon jug to take to the gym with me so I can have my water right there.
The information on this site, combined with the Gatorade study makes me wonder if I should mix a bit of maltodextrin and dextrose with my water. The carbs will help keep keep cortisol levels in check, and keep my immune system healthy.

This coupled with the PWO shake should definately keep me anabolic, and really aid in replenishing my glycogen levels.

Is there any research that supports or contradicts my idea?

Thanks

[Venom]

There are a lot of studies on this.

Typically, it is not advised for short duration workouts (less than 90 minutes). If you are training longer than 2 hours, as you commonly do in endurance events, then I would advise it for performance. Otherwise, right now, I could not advise it for weight lifters training in short duration workouts. I am not going to be dogmatic about that, but based on my research, those are my current conclusions. I would love to hear others thoughts on the topic though (I know Vlad has done a lot of research/experimentation with this). That is subject to change as I investigate this topic further (a definite goal of mine in the near future).

You can read this post for some issues with that method, here. (http://www.abcbodybuilding.com/forum/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=food&Number=1129311&Search page=1&Main=1129138&Words=hypoglycemic+Venom&topic =&Search=true#Post1129311)

[dueno88]

when you have the flu, your body raises its temperature the combat the pathogen. so maybe when one exercises the increase in body temp. may have some effect on the eradication of pathogen?!

besides, i dont know if its just me but when im sick i still do some intense cardio and afterward i feel good. i usually get over a cold in a few days and i haven't noticed a difference when i exercise.

[psaturn]

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I haven't read the last couple posts yet, but I had an idea, and I only have a sec - I'll check back after work. But, because we usually sweat during exercise, our pores open up, exposing the first layer of defense - our skin! Do you think that would make us more suseptible to germs?

[/ QUOTE ]

I have never heard that, but I think that is a great postulation, bro. I am going to have to look into that more. Thanks!

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Venom,

2 Yrs ago I suffered a very bad bout of cellulitis in the right knee. I had a fever of 105 degrees and the injection of antibiotic in the tush did nothing and they had to send me to hospital emergency room and put me on IV antibiotics.

The pain from that cellulitis was one of the worst I ever experienced in my life and I have pretty high threshold to pain!

I have talked to several doctors and they said that usually cellulitis (skin infection) comes from a break in the skin but there was no break!

Then they asked me about my lifestyle and how I was into very heavy workouts. They said that during workouts that the skin pores do open very large and bacterias can get in very easily.

A Physician pathologist who is a patient of mine confirmed that it is true that the skin pores can get large enough that bacterias can get in.

At that time I was extremely hardcore in my workouts.

And I never had cellulitis in my life.

Cellulitis if untreated could be deadly if the infection goes to the bloodstream and to the whole body.

I had a patient that got cellulitis from just a paper cut.

[Venom]

That is crazy, p-saturn. /forum/images/graemlins/shocked.gif Thanks for sharring!