New research suggests that maintaining a healthy lifestyle could potentially lower the risk of experiencing complications after recovering from COVID-19. According to a recent study published in the journal “Nature Communications,” individuals who practice healthy habits, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, may be better equipped to manage the after-effects of the virus.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, analyzed data from over 450,000 participants in the UK Biobank, a large-scale Biomedical Sealants database. The researchers found that those who reported engaging in regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep were less likely to experience complications following a COVID-19 diagnosis.
Specifically, the study revealed that individuals who reported at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity had a 12% lower risk of developing post-COVID complications, compared to those who reported no regular physical activity. Additionally, those who adhered to a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, had a 25% lower risk of experiencing complications.
Furthermore, the researchers found that those who reported getting at least seven hours of sleep per night had a 10% lower risk of developing complications, compared to those who reported sleeping less than six hours per night.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Morgan Pritchett, emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “Our findings suggest that maintaining a healthy lifestyle could potentially help reduce the risk of developing complications after COVID-19 infection,” she said. “Given the ongoing pandemic, it’s more important than ever to prioritize our health and wellbeing.”
The researchers noted that their study does not establish a causal relationship between healthy lifestyle habits and reduced risk of post-COVID complications. However, they believe that their findings provide further evidence of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly during the pandemic.
In conclusion, the new study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk of complications following a COVID-19 diagnosis. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are all key components of a healthy lifestyle that may help individuals better manage the after-effects of the virus.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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