The podcast discusses the challenges of exercising in older age, including juggling responsibilities and dealing with physical and mental barriers.
The podcast explores the changes that occur in the body with age and how to maintain an active lifestyle despite these changes.
Deep dives
Understanding the Immune Response to Viral Infections
When infected with a respiratory virus, our immune system responds by producing more mucus and inflammatory substances called cytokines and chemokines. This can result in congestion, coughing, and fever. The symptoms we experience are mostly caused by our body's efforts to fight the infection. However, most cold and flu symptoms are mild and do not pose a significant risk to our health.
Effectiveness of Cold and Flu Remedies
Cold and flu remedies, such as cough syrups and throat lozenges, have limited evidence supporting their effectiveness. Many of these remedies provide only mild relief and are not significantly better than placebos. The majority of respiratory infections improve on their own, regardless of using medication. While some ingredients like guaifenesin may help to loosen phlegm in chesty coughs, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and choose products wisely.
Role of Menthol and Nasal Sprays
Menthol, found in products like vapor rub, can provide a soothing sensation and temporarily relieve congestion. However, its effects are mostly psychological rather than physiological. Nasal sprays claiming to be antiviral are designed to create a protective layer in the nasal passage, but their effectiveness in preventing colds is limited. It is important to consider the limited evidence for these products and consult a pharmacist for guidance on choosing the right remedy.
Exercise in older age is high on the agenda, but the idea that with age comes bags of time and a desire to ‘get out there’ isn’t true for a lot of us. How do you juggle exercise around caring for partners, grandchildren or staying in work? What if you haven’t exercised for years? What can your body take, and how has it changed with age? James Gallagher hears how octogenarian athlete ‘Irongran’ keeps going, he explores the mental and physical barriers that stop us exercising, and he finds out what he might feel like in 40 years as he pulls on an ageing suit.
Presenter: James Gallagher
Guests:
Edwina Brocklesby, athete and founder of SilverFit
Dr Dan Gordon, Associate Professor in Cardiorespiratory Exercise Physiology, Anglia Ruskin University
Dr Katrina McDonald, judo specialist and Senior Lecturer in Sports and Exercise Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University
Dr Josephine Perry, sports psychologist and founder of Performance in Mind
Professor Cassandra Phoenix, Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences at the University of Durham
Dr Dharani Yerrakalva, GP and NIHR Doctoral Fellow at the University of Cambridge
Producer: Tom Bonnett
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