Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Immunity to battle COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic numbers keep climbing, is there more we can do to stay healthy, in addition to social distancing and shelter in place? “We are told 75% to 80% of us will at some time be exposed to this,” said Dr. Preston Wilson, a family practice provider at Jordan Family Health in West Jordan. “We need to prepare ourselves for when that happens.”
We need to be strong, healthy, and boost our immune systems as much as we can. Eating healthy foods and getting 8 hours of sleep a night are no-brainers, but what other things can we do to ramp up our immunity. Here are some tips:
Vitamin C
While Vitamin C has come under fire recently thanks to ‘fake news’ saying it’s a cure for COVID, its still a very powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. In a recent article for Real Simple, Ali Webster, PhD, RD, director of research and nutrition communications for the International Food Information Council, says it is an important nutrient for optimal immune function”.
Foods rich in Vit C are Citrus fruits, Strawberries, Broccoli, Bell peppers.
Vitamin D & B12
In a recent article for Vogue Magazine, Dr. McClellan, chief medical officer for Tia’s Clinic, believes that certain supplements, like vitamins D and B12, can be helpful alongside a diet high in fruits and vegetables. “They have a huge amount of micronutrients and components that we extract to put in our vitamins, but eating them whole is the right foundational strategy, and then you can supplement where you need to,” she says.
Zinc
Zinc is also important since it does play a critical role in cell function in your immune system.
Shellfish, eggs, nuts, and beans all have zinc.
Decreasing Stress
Easier said than done, right? Try meditation, walks, breathing slowly, and just giving yourself time to sit in the space that we’re in. Focus on looking for the bright side of every day. There are lessons to be learned from this.
Other proven things to improve your immunity immediately:
- Quit smoking- duh.
- Exercise regularly- also good for your mental game
- Maintain a healthy weight- cinnamon rolls on the daily is never a good idea.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation- sad but true.
- And minimize stress- focus on taking one step at a time.