Question: what methods do you use in order to try and prevent athletes from getting sick before big competitions ?

Helen Hanstock answered on 8 Nov 2016:

Thanks for your question!

My research tries to understand how stresses such as exercise, lack of sleep, diet and psychological stress affect the immune system. In general, we know that a little bit of short term stress helps to boost the immune system but long term stress can lead to depressed immunity and an increased risk of catching a common cold.

With athletes there are some simple rules they can follow that can help to minimise the risk of getting sick before a competition:

1. Ease off training a few days before.
2. Avoid air travel – planes are a great place to pick up bugs so if there is an option to drive that could be better.
3. Avoid sick people
4. Wash hands regularly, especially before eating. Its a really simple thing but can help to prevent trasmission of bacteria in public places. Also avoid touching your nose and eyes as these are the places that viruses or bacteria tend to get in!
5. Make sure you are eating a balanced diet and not restricting calorie intake too much. Get your 5-a-day!
6. Get plenty of Vitamin D!
7. Get enough sleep.
8. Try to minimise other stressors in your life.