Sport boosts the immune system: true or false?

Exercise undeniably benefits both body and mind. It invigorates the metabolism, fortifies bones and muscles, and alleviates stress and tension. Additionally, physical activity plays a crucial role in bolstering the immune system, demonstrating a dual effect.

On one hand, extensive scientific research has shown that engaging in sport enhances the immune response, boosting natural defences against external pathogens like influenza viruses.

However, intense and sustained physical exertion can weaken the body’s defences, making it more vulnerable to infections. This occurs because the oxidative stress from prolonged activity can negatively impact the immune system.

This phenomenon, known as the “open window,” refers to a specific period in an athlete’s life when the immune system struggles to mount an adequate defence against pathogens. After a high-intensity exercise session, immune cell functions may be temporarily diminished, leaving the body more susceptible to illness.

Why athletes’ immune defences weaken more easily

Intense training sessions can significantly increase the risk of infections, particularly viral ones. Let’s delve into why this occurs:

After an especially rigorous workout, immune cells called leukocytes are directed towards the muscles, which are inflamed due to the microtears in the muscle fibres.

Interestingly, the soreness experienced after exercise is not primarily due to lactic acid accumulation, but rather the damage to these muscle fibres, which triggers the body’s repair processes.

This post-exercise inflammatory state can weaken the immune response, leaving the body more susceptible to pathogens, particularly respiratory viruses. These viruses are notably prevalent in the environment and are more easily inhaled during periods of physical stress.

How to strengthen the immune system

Defense Booster is a specialised supplement designed for athletes who engage in intense and frequent training, particularly outdoors. Formulated with six Sucrosomial® minerals, three vitamins, lycopene, and coenzyme Q10, it offers a range of benefits for overall well-being which enhances immune defences, combats oxidative stress, and helps alleviate tiredness and fatigue.

Research by PharmaNutra, which has always been focused on promoting health through high-quality functional ingredients, has optimised a formulation in which the components of Defence Booster work together to provide both immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. A single sachet dissolved in water provides effective support for your immune system function.

• Iron supports energy metabolism and normal immune function, while helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue.
• Zinc helps with normal protein synthesis and, along with selenium, bolsters the immune response and protects cells from oxidative stress.
• Magnesium contributes to reducing tiredness and fatigue, maintaining electrolyte balance, and supporting normal energy metabolism, as well as the functioning of the nervous system and muscles.
• Chromium contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism.
• Iodine supports energy metabolism, cognitive function and nervous system health.
• Vitamin D3 helps to maintain healthy bones and muscle function, in addition to supporting normal immune system activity.
• Vitamin C helps to maintain normal immune function during and after intense physical exertion, while also contributing to energy metabolism, nervous system function, and reducing tiredness and fatigue.
• Vitamin E helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Sucrosomial® technology

The minerals in Defence Booster, i.e. iron, magnesium, zinc, chromium and iodine, are formulated using Sucrosomial® technology, a patented innovation from PharmaNutra. This technology encapsulates the minerals in a matrix of phospholipids and sucrose esters of fatty acids, known as Sucrosome®. This unique structure enhances absorption and ensures excellent gastrointestinal tolerability, addressing common issues associated with traditional supplements, such as nausea and digestive discomfort.

The result is a supplement designed for athletes to thrive in any season, even in colder temperatures. Defence Booster provides a potent and well-tolerated blend of micronutrients that strengthens immune response and safeguards overall health.