Why is outdoor play important?
There is very little green area for children to play in today's cities, especially. However, regardless of how limited the space is, it is essential to involve kids in physical activities such as sports, free play, and outdoor workouts. It can improve physical fitness, motor abilities, cognitive development, and social development.
Outdoor activities and immunity
The numerous microorganisms found in nature can activate the immune system, shaping immunological defence mechanisms. These mechanisms are highly particular and regulated, and they aid the body in combating foreign invaders.
"Our immune system function is shaped by microorganisms from our environment, from other humans and animals, which is then continuously modified by our diet or medicinal use," explains Dr. Reena Jaybhaye, consultant rheumatologist and immunologist at Advanced Arthritis Rheumatism and Autoimmunity Centre in Kharghar, Mumbai. "When exposed to a wide range of microorganisms, the immune system fine-tunes the balance between attack and tolerance mechanisms, thereby avoiding immune responses to self or harmless allergens."
The sand pit is a child's favourite play location. The amount of mess made reveals how much he or she enjoys the activity.
"There is a concept known as the "old friend hypothesis" (previously known as the hygiene hypothesis) that suggests that playing in natural environments exposes us to mud, dust, sand, and soil that contain beneficial bacteria and microbes that have been present since the dawn of humanity," Dr Gupta continues. "These microorganisms live on our skin and help to improve our immune system by eliciting specific responses that boost our overall immunity."
The function of lymph in immunity
Playing at open playgrounds/parks involves more movement than playing in a confined space, such as at home. This improves lymph flow in the lymphatic system, which is linked to our immune system because it contains specialised cells that help us fight infections.
"A consistent flow of lymph is necessary for its effective operation, which can be maintained through exercise and movement," explains Dr. Gupta. "Exercise also encourages the secretion of specific hormones and factors that facilitate the movement of T cells [types of immune cells that help fight infections] into circulation."
Vitamin D boosts immunological function.
Outdoor play exposes the youngster to sunshine, which aids in vitamin D production. The 'sunshine vitamin' is essential for some immunological responses. CD4+ T cells are one of the primary cells that regulate an efficient response to infections. "Vitamin D is essential for regulating CD4+ T-cell responses." "Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to hypertension and depressive disorders," Dr Gupta says.
It is crucial to remember that the advantages of spending time outside are not limited to youngsters. Adults should exercise in places other than gyms or indoor facilities.
"The hygiene hypothesis suggests that people who work outside, do manual labour, or are exposed to nature (including dirt and mud) have stronger immune systems than those who are protected from infection," Dr. Gupta explains. "This phenomenon can be seen in chronic complications like asthma, Crohn's disease, and autoimmune disorders." These beneficial bacteria are abundant in the environment and contribute to the establishment of a better immune system by activating both respiratory and intestinal immunity."
