Flu season usually peaks around February; the worst is yet to come. In January, many people start dieting to make weight-loss resolutions come true. Therein lies the tension: cutting calories can make you more susceptible to coming down with the flu. New research from Michigan State University found that calorie restriction makes it more difficult for the body to fight the flu. The study, performed on mice, indicated that even with adequate nutrition the "dieting" mice could not produce enough killer cells needed to battle the flu virus. Before you embark on a crazy, low-calorie fad diet (which I don't agree with anyway), remember your body needs calories to fuel your immune system. You just need to eat sensibly and exercise, which strengthens your immune system, too.
Please share your opinion with our community, but make sure it is on topic and follows our Community Rules. We moderate comments and prohibit personal attacks, threats, spam, lewd images, or the promotion of your personal website.
If you are already a member, please login. If you would like to receive email as new comments are made, register now.
Good point Fit! I noticed this when I was cutting calories, I was a little more susceptible to colds.
1