How staying indoors is impacting your health

By Bio Island Nutrition Team

Over the past year many of us have spent the majority if our time indoors while we wait out the pandemic. While this has been a necessary precaution to take to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, it has not been without complications. One of the most significant effects of staying inside is a lack of sun exposure, routine exercise, and connection to our environment.

Our bodies are made for living both indoors and outdoors. It is important that we are receiving adequate amounts of sunlight each day to help set our circadian rhythms, and to ensure our skin produces enough vitamin D in response to UVB exposure. While many people are aware of the benefits that vitamin D has in relation to building strong our bones and teeth, the effects that vitamin D has on our immune system is less well known. 

New evidence is emerging that suggests people with low levels of vitamin D are at a higher risk of contracting respiratory tract infections such as influenza. This is due to the effect vitamin D has on the macrophages in our lungs which are the first line of defence against respiratory infections. Vitamin D enables the macrophages to release an antimicrobial peptide which kills bacteria and viruses, it also assists other immune cells to coordinate longer-term responses to infections. 

Another result of staying indoors for too long is a lack of physical exercise. Evidence shows that regular exercise also helps to bolster the immune system, likely by reducing an individual’s stress levels. Exercising outside provides the body with the best of both worlds, enabling the body to get its daily dose of vitamin D whilst reducing stress. Numerous studies have found that exercising in nature helps to lower a person’s heart rate and normalise cortisol.

So, it’s time to dig your joggers out from the cupboard and get outdoors! Not only will you feel better mentally and physically, but you will also be helping to protect your body from future respiratory infections and bolstering your immune system.

This information does not take into account your personal situation and is general in nature. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your needs and seek professional medical advice.

Always consult your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or if any concerns arise.