5 Tips To Boost Your Immune System During The COVID-19 Pandemic
During this challenging time, the best way to limit your chances of contracting or spreading the virus is to practise strict social distancing. Keeping your immune system strong is also essential.
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1. Eat right
Stock up on plants and whole foods, which are loaded with nutrients to keep us healthy. Immune-boosting foods and drinks are: leafy greens, citrus fruits, broccoli, garlic, ginger, turmeric, green tea. Avoid processed foods and sugar. These foods may have a long shelf life, which is why they are flying off the shelves right now. However, they are highly inflammatory, stress your immune system, and are low in vitamins and minerals.
2. Supplement
If you are immune deprived or feeling low, this is a time to boost your immune system with something extra. Stock up on vitamin C and zinc. Also dose up on immune-boosting herbal remedies that have been tested through time such as echinacea. (Note that elderberry is currently not recommended to prevent or treat COVID-19, as it can exacerbate the cytokine response.) Homeopathic remedies and essential oils are a great natural way of preventing general illness and helping the body to heal.
3. Get enough sleep
Sleep is when your body rejuvenates and replenishes, so make sure you get plenty of rest.
4. Reduce your stress and anxiety
Chronic, prolonged stress suppresses your immune system. There’s a lot of fear and anxiety in the air right now, which can be more dangerous than the virus itself. So it is even more important to focus on relaxation and de-stressing. Take a news and social media break for a few hours a day and rather cook some nourishing meals or exercise. Do whatever work for you to relax, and stay connected to your loved ones.
5. Wash your hands and practise hygiene
This is by now probably a no-brainer, but still one of the easiest steps to keep healthy. Remember to wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, and cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.
