Important Tips To Boost Your Family’s Immunity Amid Coronavirus Outbreak, Eat Good; Look Good
With stay-at-home orders gradually being lifted, it seems life is back to normal once again as shops and businesses start to reopen across the nation.
However, that is not yet a cause for celebration because the COVID-19 coronavirus is still out there causing pain and suffering on thousands. That is why, more than ever, it is a must for you and your family to have a strong immune system, especially for those who have to get out of the house every week to do some important errands. The immune system defends the body from viruses, bacteria and other harmful pathogens that can cause colds and flu yearly.
Science has made it clear that only social distancing and proper hygiene helps decrease the risk of getting infected by the virus. However, it is believed that having a strong immune system prevents or reduce risk of infectious diseases. One way of doing that is by doing the following tips that help boost your family’s immunity amid the coronavirus outbreak:
Get Needed Nutrients:
A balanced diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps you and your loved ones stay healthy every day. It is a good idea to fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. Eat lots of vegetables, especially green/dark green varieties.
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with immunity-boosting properties, including vitamin A, vitamin C and other key nutrients. Together with exercise, a healthy diet is important in maintaining a strong immune system. Ginger, citrus fruits (e.g. oranges, lemons), turmeric and oregano oil are some of the foods known for their immune-boosting properties. Though more research is needed, studies suggest that vitamin D, which is usually obtained via sun exposure, may improve immune response, helping fight off respiratory illnesses.
Be Physically Active:
A healthy adult needs at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of physical activity weekly. Choose any physical activity that you enjoy and start by doing as much as possible. Though the exact processes remain unclear, exercise has been shown to fight off infections. Some theories behind it include flushing out bacteria through the lungs, a temporary body temperature increase to kill bacteria and decreasing stress hormones (cortisols).
Manage Stress:
Though there is no need to panic, it is still advisable to follow instructions that are being issued to the public. Worries related to the coronavirus and the general disruption of life have increased our stress levels, but stress itself can increase our risk of getting infected by COVID-19.
Improve Sleeping Habits
Keeping your immune system healthy helps ward off or fight infections, and lack of sleep can affect immune function. Sleeping for less than 6 hours each night can increase the risk of getting infections compared to those who sleep for more than 7 hours. So it is best to stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up schedule. Avoid using gadgets, late-night snacks and exercise before bed.
Practice Good Hygiene
Remember that keeping germs at bay through proper personal hygiene is the first line of defense. Prevent infection before it begins or avoid spreading it to others by washing your hands, wearing a face mask, avoiding crowded areas, not smoking and other habits that promote good hygiene.
Above all, stay alert; stay safe. Taj Pharma is working towards building a better healthcare system globally.
