10 Things That Can Help Boost Your Immune System During The Coronavirus Outbreak
One cannot be certain that they can prevent themselves or their loved ones from being exposed to the coronavirus but, a few precautionary measures and steps may help to build and strengthen your immune system.
The best way to protect yourself is by adopting simple healthy habits like sleeping enough, exercising, eating well, and finding good ways to reduce stress.
- Getting enough Vitamin D: Research has shown that the immune system needs vitamin D to fight off viruses. It won't protect your from getting the virus if you're exposed but it could reduce the severity of the illness and help make recovery easier.
- Enough Sleep: 7-9 hours each night for most people. This is one of the most evidence-supported ways to stay healthy. While you're asleep, your body uses that time to do critical recovery and repair of essential functions, including your immune system.
- Exercise: While keeping you healthy, exercise can also boost your mood. Since most of us are working from home and in quarantine there are plenty of ways to still get your sweat on while at home, from home workouts to jogging or walking in your garden.
- Eat a healthy diet: Rich in vegetables, fiber, fruits, nuts, seeds, grains and beans. One of the most promising benefits of greens may be their ability to support your immune system
- Manage Your Stress: Studies have shown that a healthy amount of manageable stress can lead to increased brain functioning, a boosted immune system and better preparation for future stressful situations, which can positively affect emotional health with your work and home life.
- Vitamin C: Is important to a number of functions in the body. Vitamin C is also incredibly important for things like healing and repairing wounds, and maintaining the health of your bones and teeth. It also plays a role in helping your body absorb iron, which the body needs.
- Incorporate Yogurt In Your Diet
- Ginger: Can be used in tea, warm water and even your meals.
- Snack on almonds and sunflower seeds.
- And lastly, don't forget to wash your hands: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), clean your hands regularly, wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly. Use alcohol-based handrub if you don’t have immediate access to soap and water. Washing your hands properly takes about as long as singing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Stay home, stay safe and don't forget to practice social distancing.