Just a few tips to beat the bug.
This is an anxiety inducing time with the spread of COVID-19 as we're not exactly sure what is happening around the world least of all in our own country. From schools closings and the ridiculous run on TP, things are chaotic to say the least. The best way to support our health is to be mindful of what we are doing.
Small things can help to boost our immune systems. Here are several things you can do starting right now to support your body.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (sing happy birthday) before meals, when you come back home, if you touch your face, after using the bathroom, and even just on an hourly basis.
Sleep! - Make sure you are getting 8 hours of sleep a night. Sleep is when the body is able to repair itself.
Avoid Sugar - 1 teaspoon of sugar will knock the immune system down for 4 hours. Rather than having that sugary treat to help you deal with your anxiety have some fruit.
Eat the Rainbow - As much as you can, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, good fats, and protein. You are what you eat so please eat the best foods possible.
Exercise - Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. If possible try to get outside and in the sun (vitamin D is a good thing right now), but stay 6 feet away from people that you don’t live with.
Laugh and Meditate - Both of these practices can release endorphins into the body that can help to support the immune system and lower cortisol levels. Stress is detrimental for the immune system, so please don’t stress.
Supplements - There are immune supporting herbs and supplements that can help, but to me it is an individualized protocol. Naturopathic medicine is not a one size fits all. What is helpful for one's immune system might not be wise in another person's body. If you have questions about what you should be on then please email or call to set up a quick phone chat.
Water - Hydration is vital. Keeping our mucus membranes moist helps the body to use its natural cleaning processes: moving things out of the nose and throat. Please drink your fluids.
Ask For Help - If you are immune compromised, elderly, or are living with elderly family or friends then please ask for help with getting groceries or other items you need. Staying healthy is the goal.
Hygiene - Remember the basic hygiene you were taught in kindergarten? Washing hands, covering up when you sneeze or cough (into your shirt or into your elbow), don’t touch your face or another person's face. If you are sick, stay home no one wants your cooties!
Let's stay safe and healthy. Sending you all positive thoughts and prayers.
- Dr. Anita M. Larrow, ND
Image Credit: Lars Klintwall Malmqvist (Wikipedia) (Public Domain)