BOOST THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

In the wake of the novel Covid-19 infection, many people are seeking ways to boost their immune systems. We need our body’s defense system to be as strong as possible. 

How can this be done? Like the army, the immune system is an intricate network of units that act together to combat invaders, in this case, bacteria, viruses, and other “enemies.”

Since it is a system of many parts, not a single unit, it cannot technically be boosted. However, it can be strengthened to run more efficiently to feed off diseases. Keep your body fit and ready by living a healthy lifestyle.

BOOSTING IMMUNITY 

While there are no COVID medications or immunity boosting supplements that can cure or prevent, there are steps you can take to strengthen your defenses.

And at the same time, you will want to practice these precautions for preventing the virus.

Immune-strengthening strategies

Healthy living strategies you can do for your immune system include:

• Exercising regularly, experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet, that is high in fruits and vegetables as there are many immunity booster supplements which are also a sidestep toward good health- use the Myplate technique to determine portion and type of healthy food that are best for nourishing your army.
• Maintaining a healthy weight, aim for a BMI of 25 or lower. The best way to lose weight is with exercise and a healthy and balanced diet.
• Getting quality sleep, setting a schedule and routine for sleep, and practicing good sleep hygiene.
• Reducing stress and learning coping strategies include activities such as communicating virtually with loved ones, going outside, practicing meditation regularly, exercising, or engaging in other hobbies.
• Quitting smoking, if you smoke, you can get support to help you quit.
• Drinking alcohol only in moderation, at all limits the amount of alcohol you keep in the house or limit the number of glasses/bottles you drink.
• Taking steps to prevent infection, washing your hands frequently, and social distancing.

IMMUNITY SUPPORT SUPPLEMENTS

In addition to the above-listed lifestyle and behavior practices, we recommend using the following supplements in moderation to keep the immune system functioning at its best:

• Vitamin C may help prevent viral, bacterial, and other infections by shortening the duration of cold acting as a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory.
• Vitamin D is one of the most important immune system-strengthening nutrients that can reduce the risk of cold and flu when taken regularly.
• Vitamin A, when used on a short-term basis can help support the body’s ability to fight infections, especially respiratory infections.
• Zinc can help reduce the number of infections and the duration of the common cold when taken within 24 hours of onset.
• Selenium is a key nutrient for immune function and is easily obtained from foods like the Brazil buts, Selenium is also an important antioxidant, which strengthens the body’s defense system against bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells.
• Raw honey is good at revealing minor pain and inflammation of mucous membranes, like nose and mouth, and has antioxidant properties and some microfiber effects; it is helpful for cough and sore throats and can be added to tea or hot water with lemon.
• Garlic supplements, fresh aged extracts, and garlic supplements can reduce the severity of upper viral respiratory infections and protect against viral infections.
• Probiotics contain good bacteria that both support gut health and include the function and regulation of the immune system. They also can decrease the number of respiratory infections, especially in children.

Further research has been conducted and the following additional supplement is now recommended as options for strengthening immunity:

• Beta-glucans – numerous human trials have shown that beta-glucans stimulate activity against viral attack, these findings include a decrease in cold and flu symptoms and upper respiratory tract infection compared to placebo. 
• Mushrooms – a variety of mushroom species have been shown to help with immune function in a myriad of ways; some of the medical mushrooms include shiitake, lion’s mane, maitake, and reishi.
• Berberine – found in the roots, rhizomes, and stem bark of various plants, this natural compounding has been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties; it can be found in goldenseal, goldthread, and Oregon grape species.
• Sulforaphane – sulforaphane has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties; it can be produced in the body in small amounts by eating some cruciferous vegetable or in more therapeutic amounts in dietary supplements containing glucoraphanin and myrosinase enzyme.
• Elderberry – studies have shown that elderberry has properties that appear to help fight the virus; choose a low-sugar capsule or tablet, if possible, as opposed to sugary syrup. 

It is very important to understand that these supplements should be asked before being taken from your health care person. And take them in moderation or as your doctor recommends.

 CONCLUSION

Don’t compromise on sleep, a good snooze time for 7-8 hours is the best way to help your body build immunity, lack of sleep adversely affects the action of the flu vaccine.

Stay hydrated, Drink up to 8-10 glasses of water every day, to stay hydrated. Hydration will help flush out the toxin from the body and lower the chances of flu.

Destress yourself, These are testing times, and a prolonged period of staying indoors has its implication on your mental wellbeing.