Study: Exercise and Meditation May Help Reduce Respiratory Infections

ULTRA F/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) -- A new study suggests that regular meditation or exercise may help reduce acute respiratory infections, Health Day reports.

Researchers compared the preventative effects of moderate exercise and mindful meditation on the severity of respiratory infections, like the common cold and flu, on 149 active and sedentary adults aged 50 years and older. The study was conducted during the winter in Wisconsin.

The study found that adults who participated in a daily exercise routine had fewer cases of respiratory infections and missed fewer days of work. Researchers also found that participants who practiced meditation increased their immunity to illness.

The study was published in the July/August issue of the Annals of Family Medicine.

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