
COVID-19 has shown us that building immunity is the best way to prevent disease. If your immune system is healthy and working up to par, then it becomes easy to prevent certain infections and overcome infections that cannot be prevented. Medicines can help manage infections, but how well they work will depend on the state of your immunity.
Just how can you boost your immunity? Is it a difficult task?
The answer is NO. It is very easy to improve your immunity through certain simple steps. It becomes difficult only if you have a disease or are undergoing medical treatment that weakens your immune system.
Just follow these steps to boost your immunity.
Add colour to your diet
Red, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. These protect your cells from the damage caused by free radicals. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals which help in fighting infections.
Take supplements if necessary
If you fall sick often, talk to your doctor. You may require vitamin supplements. Herbal supplements are also good for improving immunity, but you should not take them without consulting your doctor as they may react with medicines you may be taking regularly.
Don’t skip of sleep
If sleeping is your last priority, think again. Your body requires sound undisturbed sleep for 7-9 hours every day to repair damaged cells and refresh itself. If you have a breathing problem that makes sound sleep impossible, get it treated.
Get up and move about
An active lifestyle is one of the best ways to stay healthy. A good workout for half an hour on most days of the week will keep your heart working in top condition. Good blood flow is essential to keep every cell nourished and healthy. This is achieved when you stay active.
Quit bad habits
Give up smoking. Even secondary smoke inhalation is dangerous. Get help if you find that you cannot quit smoking. Limit alcohol intake. Anything more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women is injurious to health. Smoke and alcohol not only injure your body, but also make treatments you take less effective.
Be positive
Negative thoughts and feelings not only lead to mental depression, they also harm your body. They can interfere with your sleep, eating and physical activity, leading to diseases. Wake up each day in a positive frame of mind and seek out activities and company that help you laugh out loud.
Relax physically and mentally
Stress is a killer as it leads to many serious diseases. Today’s lifestyle is filled with stress and the best you can do is to learn to manage it. Take up relaxing hobbies. Stay connected with your friends and family. Regularly re-evaluate your goals and expectations. Take time to sit back and enjoy sunrise and sunsets.
Maintain good hygiene
The pandemic has taught us that keeping our hands clean is the best way to prevent disease. Bathing daily, washing and wearing clean clothes, keeping your home and surroundings clean etc. are important infection control methods.
Practice these simple steps to prevent illness. Take control of your health.