Enjoying walks in nature could help reduce several markers of inflammation and thus prevent certain chronic diseases, according to a new study.
- The benefits of nature on the morale and the body are multiple.
- An American study has linked quality time spent in nature with a reduction in three biomarkers of inflammation.
- Spending time in nature could therefore help prevent certain chronic diseases, including heart disease or diabetes.
We know: walks in the forest, by the sea or in the mountains are good for our body and our morale. Spending time in natural environments helps reduce stress and stimulate creativity. Researchers at Cornell University (USA) recently observed a link between appreciation of nature and reductions in three different markers of inflammation.
A correlation between positive contact with nature and reduced inflammation
Inflammation is an immediate response of our body following damage to its tissues and/or cells due to pathogens or physical injury. As part of this work, published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunitydata from 1,244 adults who participated in the Midlife in the United States Study (MIDUS II), a survey of health and aging in the United States, were analyzed.
Participants were asked about the frequency of their outings in nature and the pleasure they derived from them. Using blood samples taken in the fasting state, the scientists also measured the concentrations of three biomarkers of inflammation (interleukin-6, C-reactive protein and fibrinogen). Analyzes were adjusted for volunteers’ demographics, health behaviors, drug treatments, and general well-being.
The benefits of nature on chronic diseases
The American team then noticed that frequent, positive contact with nature was associated with lower circulating levels of three different indicators of inflammation. “By focusing on these markers of inflammation, the study provides a biological explanation for how nature can improve health (…) and importantly showing how it can prevent or manage diseases linked to chronic inflammation, such as heart disease and diabetes”underlined Dr. Anthony Ong, lead author of the study and professor of psychology at Cornell University.