Exercise & ARDS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major cause of death in patients with COVID-19. Between 3-17% of all infected with the novel virus will develop this condition. A review out of the University of Virginia (Yan & Spaulding, 2020) examined the role of an endogenous antioxidant known as extracellular superoxide dismutase (EcSOD) in protecting our tissues, including our lungs, heart and kidneys. While a reduction is seen in many diseases, animal studies have shown an increase to have beneficial effects. The review highlighted the potential of EcSOD in the treatment of ARDS, as well as many other medical conditions. Our muscles naturally secrete EcSOD into circulation & it appears that cardiovascular exercise can boost production. The authors suggested even a single bout of exercise can raise levels of this potent antioxidant. Knowing your workouts offer some protection from this severe disease is yet another reason to keep them going throughout the pandemic.