Practicing social distancing. Putting on facial masks. Using alcohol and sanitizer. Staying at home as much as possible. Health authorities imposed basic protocols to minimize and even curb transmission of the novel coronavirus strain that upended the daily lives of people and communities all over the world. There is, however, another important thing you can do besides complying with these rules, and that is boosting your immune system.
Countries, including Canada, must adopt a “new normal” system to adjust to the social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the government’s efforts seemed to limit the spread of the virus, Canada is far from returning to its pre-Covid-19 state. Large gatherings are still discouraged, and the necessary protocols are still being practiced. Businesses have taken a blow – as a business owner, it’s either you adjust to the new normal or suffer extensive losses or closure. Schools are opening soon, but everyone is proceeding with extreme caution.
So, in the midst of all of these things, how do you boost your health?
As always, eat right. Even the World Health Organization can attest that people who get the right nutrition from food have more robust immune systems and have a lower risk of contracting infectious diseases. As much as possible, eat fresh and avoid processed food. Maintain a diet of vegetables, fruits, beans and legumes, nuts and grains, root crops, and meat derived from animals. If you cannot avoid processed foods, at least limit your intake to once or twice a month. Stay away from salty and sugary food if you want to lower your risk of getting cancer, obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
Don’t wait to hydrate. Humans are essentially 60% water, so you just can imagine how important it is to keep hydrated every day. Water is essential to keep our bodily functions smoothly running. Experts suggest drinking a minimum of eight to ten cups a day, but do not hesitate to drink more. You can consume natural juices and unsweetened coffee and tea, but always keep in mind that when it comes to drinking, water is king.
Get sleep. Listen to your body. If you are feeling like a squeezed-out toothpaste tube, get some sleep. Learn to give rest to your body – it is the best gift that you can give to yourself amid a pandemic. Adults must get seven to nine hours of sleep a day to function normally. Remember, if water is needed for the body to run smoothly, sleep, on the other hand, is vital for body repair and energy replenishment.
Avoid vices. The world was brought to a stop by a single virus. Consider it a sign that you must also stop your vices. If you want a healthy body that can stand a chance against global outbreaks, be sure to cut back your alcohol intake and cigarette smoking. Protect your liver and lungs and avoid both vices altogether.
It’s wise to exercise. People who engage in daily physical activity tend to be more fit and healthy than those who follow a generally lethargic lifestyle. Exercise offers a lot of health benefits. A 30-minute to one hour of daily physical routine can do wonders to improve your strength and body stamina. Training your heart, lungs, bones, and muscles means that you will have more energy to do chores in the long run. Exercise controls weight, prevents diseases, boosts energy, and helps you sleep. It also helps improve your emotional condition since physical activity can stimulate your brain to release happy hormones.
Avoid dining out. Restaurants are operating in a limited capacity nowadays. If you cannot avoid going to food places, at least consider just taking-out your food. Encourage cooking at home. If you have children, this is the best time to involve them in a little kitchen action. You can start cooking simple desserts that they will love to eat after. You can also introduce them to baking or making full meals – or you too can learn a new recipe or two.
Take care of your mental health. Taking care of your body is only the first step to wellness. Taking care of your mind will complete your health equation. One thing you can do is to manage your stress during the pandemic. Try reading a book, meditating, or calling close friends. If you need help addressing your mental health condition, but restrictions prevent you from going to a hospital or a clinic, try looking for an online doctor Ontario service. There are a lot of websites that can connect you to an online doctor who can help you address common issues like anxiety, mood swings, depression, OCD, and trauma/loss. You can talk to a health professional without leaving your home.
Nowadays, it is better to be prepared physically and mentally. Keeping yourself healthy is something that you can actively do to protect your body from various diseases. The stronger your immunity, the better your chance to combat outbreaks like Covid-19. Boost your immune system today.
