Whether you’re stressed out about catching the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) or just from the media coverage, it is important that we all take extra precautions by sanitizing and proactively boosting our immune systems during these times. Here are 10 tips for you during this, or any flu season:
- Frequent and thorough hand-washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Also consider sanitizing cell phones, computer keyboards, computer mouse, and door handles often.
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when sneezing or coughing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, face, and mouth.
- Avoid contact when possible with those showing signs or symptoms of fever, respiratory illness or infection.
- Consider taking nutraceuticals. Recent research has indicated that certain nutraceuticals may have antiviral effects that provide a strategy for coping with RNA viruses including COVID-19. Randomized clinical trials cited in the study provide evidence that the following nutraceuticals may have a beneficial impact on boosting immunity, lessening the severity of virus symptoms, and/or shortening the length of infection:
- Elderberry (600–1,500 mg)
- Spirulina (15g)
- Zinc (30-50 mg)
- Selenium (50-100 mcg)
- n-acetylcysteine (NAC) (1,200–1,800 mg)
- Ferulic acid (500-1,000 mg)
- Lipoic acid (1,200-1,800 mg, in place of Ferulic acid.
- Incorporate a variety of plant foods into your diet, while limiting sugar as much as possible. Stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.
- De-stress! Stress raises cortisol levels which hinders your immune system’s fighting abilities. Meditation is always a great tool to help.
- Get an adequate amount of sleep. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep per night, as research shows sleep deprivation suppresses immune system function.
- Work up a sweat through exercise, sauna, or red light therapy. Sweating serves as a powerful detoxification pathway. Consider exercising outside on a sunny day, as the sun is your best source of Vitamin D, a powerful vitamin that facilitates normal immune system function.
- Other nutrients and supplements to consider incorporating:
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin A (wards off viruses)
- Vitamin C
- Glutathione
- Andrographis
- Echinacea
- Zinc
Above all else, please see your primary care provider if you are experiencing the 3 main symptoms of Coronavirus: fever, cough, and shortness of breath. But if you would like more information on how to boost your health and immune system during this time, give us a call, or reach out to us by filling out the form below. Together we will all get through this time; please take care of yourself and we will help take care of you!