3 Myths Busted - Cold Weather illness and Weight Gain

We all share various points of view when it comes to daily living, health advice, and urban myths.  This quick read below, is an excerpt from an article that breaks down some common theories with regards to how the upcoming cold weather will affect us.   

Here are three myths that the author felt were totally "busted".

REFERENCE:  K. Aleisha Fetters December 22, 2014, Article: 10 Winter Health Myths Busted

Myth: Cold air can make you sick

Despite being called the common "cold," lower temperatures alone won't make you sick. In fact, the exact opposite is true. "Cells that fight infection in body actually increase if you go out into the cold," says Rachel C. Vreeman, MD, co-author of Don't Swallow Your Gum! Myths, Half-Truths, and Outright Lies About Your Body and Health. It's your body's way of combating the stress of freezing temps. Plus, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, cold viruses grow best at about 91 degrees; if you're outside in the cold, your nostrils are surely colder than that.

Myth: Women gain 10 pounds over the winter

Between comfort foods, dreary days, and cozy blankets, it's not hard to imagine why women put on winter weight. But it turns out that the average woman only gains one or two pounds over the winter. Still, one Nutrition Reviews study shows that weight gain during the six-week holiday season accounts for 51% of annual weight gain. And, according to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, most women don't shed that extra layer of insulation come springtime, so over the years, the weight can really add up.

Myth: You shouldn't exercise in the cold

Get ready to crawl out from under your comforter and run into the great (and yes, cold) outdoors. According to research published in Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise, in cold temperatures, race times are actually faster—and quicker paces burn more calories in less time. Plus, that harder, faster workout can spike your endorphin levels—which, according to a review in Environmental Science and Technology, are already increased just by you being outside. Ready to get started? 

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If you are looking for an awesome way to stay fit and improve your immune system this winter season, then come visit us.

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6015 S Sunbury Road, Westerville, OH

614-899-9033

www.koguryoma.com