While there is no miracle cure or surefire way to prevent Coronavirus, there are still some measures you can take at home right now to boost your immunity and give your body its best shot at staying healthy.
At Sea Change Chiropractic, we believe in 360-degree wellness. Chiropractic isn’t just about spinal manipulations, it’s also about comprehensive health and wellbeing. From diet, to exercise, and lifestyle habits, there are small changes you can make every day to contribute to your own long-term wellness.
If you’re wondering what you can do to protect yourself and loved ones from the spread of coronavirus, read below for Sea Change Chiropractic’s recommendations to boost your immune system during COVID-19.
1. Healthy Foods, Healthy Body
A healthy body starts in the kitchen. When you feed your body what it needs, it can perform its best and keep you feeling strong. As a guide, try to incorporate as many items from the outer aisles of the grocery store as possible. Why the outer aisles? These are typically where you will find fruits, vegetables, and protein. The immune system favors these nutrient-dense foods.
You should also include:
- High fiber foods such as leafy greens, beans, and whole grain
- Lots of plants, though a vegetarian diet isn’t necessary
- Fermented foods like kimchi or kefir to promote beneficial gut flora
2. Physical Fitness
Physical activity is a cornerstone of health. The American Heart Association and the CDC both recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week. These are good goals to aim for, though you’ll gain even more health benefits if you go beyond these numbers.
For some people, this kind of exercise isn’t possible. Older people that are more vulnerable to infection should aim to do whatever exercise is possible, even if that’s just a short walk or a few extra laps around the house. Anything is better than nothing, so do whatever physical activity feels accessible to you.
3. Get Your Sleep
Proper sleep is essential for a strong, healthy body. When you are deprived of sleep, you’re more susceptible to viruses and other bugs. One study from 2019 even found that a lack of sleep directly impairs the disease-fighting capabilities of our T cells.
Sleep also reduces stress. Aim for a solid 8 hours each night if you can, and you’ll notice a difference in how you feel.
4. Cut out the Bad Stuff
While that glass of wine in the evening is a source of relief for many of us during this stressful time, it’s important not to overdo it on things like alcohol or smoking. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation, and smoking, if possible, should be cut out.
While these may be difficult lifestyle changes to make, the effects on your body are only beneficial.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
Hygiene is more important than ever right now. Washing your hands properly after performing any “dirty” task as well as after any contact with your face, pet, or sick person can eliminate lingering germs and help to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.
Additionally, be sure to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing and avoid sharing food, beverages, or utensils with others. If you have a face mask at home, it’s a good idea to wear one any time you leave the house. You can also make a home-made version with any bandana or scarf to limit others’ exposure to whatever germs you may have.
Staying Healthy Together
This is a new and strange season for all of us. We are learning how to adapt, adjust, and move forward however we can. One of the biggest ways we can contribute to slowing the spread of Coronavirus is by staying home and bolstering our immune systems. Follow the tips above to strengthen your body’s immune response and join Sea Change Chiropractic in staying healthy together.
Leave A Comment