I was doing high-intensity training for 5 days, then took 2 days for recovery when I got an infection and had to go on antibiotics. The question in my head was should I stop training because of the antibiotics?
I knew antibiotics can impact your immune system and slow down recovery but my body wanted more training!
Then I started looking at scientific studies. I kept seeing words like “balance,” “if the body has recovered,” and “if the body needs more rest.” The message was clear: listen to your body and make your own judgment because every body is different.
But what does listening to your body actually mean?
Does it mean giving in when I crave chocolate and sugary sweets? Or does it mean reading the signals, analyzing them, and responding based on what the body needs?
The second one. That was the real meaning.
Imagine you’re taking care of a newborn. Trick is to observe and respond how often they cry, how many dirty nappies, how long they sleep. You don’t give them candy because they cry. You adjust your response based on signals.
Same with your own body.
There are 5 key signals your body constantly gives you.
1. Hunger or Fulness Signal
Not just cravings. True hunger. Your body will let you know when it needs fuel and when it’s full. Respond with proper nutrition. Research shows that hunger regulating hormones like ghrelin and leptin helps you balance energy if you eat mindfully.
2. Sleep Signal
Track both the quantity and quality of your sleep. If you’re not getting deep rest, your body will start sending signals of brain fog, yawning, slower recovery. Sleep is when most of the recovery happens. Studies show lack of sleep weaken recovery, immune function, and exercise performance.
I should say that Bryan Johnson with his “don’t die” campaign mentioned “sleep” is number one factor in health.
3. Muscle Fatigue Signal
Especially for athletes or anyone who trains often, don’t push through pain or tightness. If your muscles aren’t recovered, more training can make it worse.
4. Mood & Stress Signal
If your mood is off or you’re under stress, your body will signal that too. High cortisol (stress hormone) can affect sleep, recovery, and cravings. Watch for irritability, lack of focus, or anxiety. Use stress control strategies like breathwork, walk, or rest.
5. Energy Levels Signal
Low energy? That’s a signal. Maybe you need food. Maybe you need rest. Sources of energy are food, sleep, hydration.
I found if my body can handle 5–6 days of high-intensity training, while on antibiotics, there’s no science saying you must stop.
Your body is a scientific university. It’s always running experiments, testing interactions, and giving feedback. Learn to read the signals.
Mohsin With E 
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