Whenever there is a pandemic, people with immunity problems are usually at higher risk of getting it than most. It is always best to take some measures to boost your immune system during, if not prior, and also improve your mental and physical health. Here are some useful ways of boosting your immune system and preventing illness:
- Make nutrition a priority.
Making nutrition a priority is something that you need to constantly pay attention to. Eating healthy without panic buying during a pandemic is possible. You only need to focus on food that you normally eat especially if you are already eating well. If you are not, then you can start doing so and avoid overstocking on highly processed, high carb foods. Making nutrition a priority during a pandemic means making sure everyone in the house eats healthy by having a balanced diet.
- Buy nutrient-rich foods.
Nutrient-rich foods such as beans or lentils, whole wheat foods, and foods high in fiber should be on your grocery list. The best thing about such foods is that they can be prepared in various ways and they can be mixed with other foods. You not only enjoy your meal, but you get the complete nutritional benefits as well. Another great benefit of nutrient rich foods are that they keep you fuller longer, so you don’t snack as much.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of high-nutrient foods that will keep you healthy during a pandemic. There are many concerns that may arise when it comes to best ways of consuming your fruits and vegetables. Should you eat fresh, frozen or canned? I would say eat them in that order if possible. You should always wash your fruits and vegetables, especially during a pandemic. The easiest and safest way to do that is mix baking soda with water and let them soak for 5 minutes or so, then rinse. There is no need for using sanitizers to wash your fruits and vegetables like most people assume.
- Stay Hydrated
Drinking lots of water will keep your body hydrated and will drain any accumulation of bacteria or viruses in your mouth or throat. Avoid drinking sugared or soda drinks. The sugar will only contribute in dehydrating your body and causing more inflammation, which weakens your immune system.
- Maintain a good hygiene
Washing your hands thoroughly or staying clean is a great way of ensuring good health. You are advised to wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap or using an alcohol-based sanitizer. Staying clean also involves focusing on keeping your house clean and getting rid of clutter. Make sure you emphasize cleanliness to your kids and help them clean up. Let them tidy up their rooms and arrange their toys every night before going to bed.
- Avoid physical contact or touching your face
Do you know that most people touch their face every 2-3 minutes? You probably don’t even realize that you are doing it. Health professionals advise that you should avoid touching your face during an infection outbreak. This is because touching your face can lead to major infections or the spread of viruses and bacteria which can affect your immune system. Minimize contact with others as well to prevent risks of contamination.
- Home workouts.
Exercising from home is also a great way of staying healthy during an outbreak. When your physical body is fit, the mind is also fit, and this plays a huge role in your ability to stay healthy even during the most menacing outbreaks. There are so many online videos for all different types of workouts. Put time aside to do exercise. It will make you feel good from the inside , out. Remember to stay hydrated throughout your exercise routine.
- Get quality sleep
Amid the constant negative news around, people tend to stay awake, worrying or watching the development of the pandemic. Remember that sleep is essential to help the body restore and regenerate itself. Try to go to sleep at a decent time with at least 7 hours of good quality sleep. Also, going to sleep at the same time every night is also beneficial. Your body will thank you.
- Natural supplements
Natural supplements have proved time and time again to be effective in boosting the immune system. Natural supplements like ginger, essential oils, lavender, cinnamon and more have proven healing and immunity boosting properties. Vitamins also help to supplement the body’s daily vitamins and minerals intake and prevent you from easily catching infection and falling ill. Not all supplements re created equal. Make sure you talk to someone knowledgeable about them. (like me)
- Keep track of your health
Another way to stay on top of your immunity is by tracking your vital health signs. Following simple things like body temperature, blood pressure and glucose levels can help you stay on top of the situation and seek care on time instead of waiting until you have been affected by an infection.
If you would like to talk with me about how I can help you with stress management, meal planning, exercise ideas and more during this time, please schedule a free 20 minute call with me. CLICK HERE
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