Obviously, social distancing is intended to stop the spread of CoVid-19 and protect us and those around us from becoming infected. However, over time the isolation may cause more harm than good.
In quarantine we may take on behaviors that hamper our immunity at a time when we need a strong immune system the most. Overindulging on sugary, carb-heavy foods and alcohol has a negative effect on the immune response.
Add to that, the fear of CoVid and the social isolation, which have become major stressors for many of us. Stress may disrupt sleeping patterns and provoke sedentary behaviors like Netfix-binging and social media gorging. These choices will easily trump a regular fitness routine.
But all is not lost! Healthy immunity is essential to fighting infection, managing inflammation and even warding off cancer. And a robust immune system relies on environmental exposure. These exposures stimulate an immune response that is “remembered” for protection against future attacks.
Unfortunately, in isolation we are missing the benefits of social exposure. But soon we will return to the real world, with all of its environmental toxins and microorganisms. We will find ourselves back to life as usual in the workplace, shopping centers and recreational spaces.
Maintaining a strong immune system will equip you for the return to civilization.
In a perfect quarantine it should be easier to do what it takes to stay immunity-strong. There is plenty of free time to get the daily recommended 7-9 hours of quality sleep, begin each day with meditation or yoga, and carve out time for daily strength and aerobic exercise. Right! Easier said than done!
But an even bigger challenge is s getting all of the nutrients essential to maintaining healthy immunity.
Well, here are 5 strategies for getting the nutrients needed for peak immunity during the lock-down:
- Look for these vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in your foods: Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamins A,C,D and E, Zinc and high fiber for gut-immune support.
- Keep these foods on hand to ensure healthy levels of the noted nutrients. Nuts, citrus fruits, berry’s, olive oil, green tea, curcumin/turmeric, black pepper, green leafy vegetables, orange and yellow veggies and cold-water seafood.
- Consider these herbs and botanicals for adrenal and immune support: green tea extract, thyme, rosemary, oregano, berberine, echinacea and elderberry. Try soups, teas and smoothies to combine multiple nutrients into one nutritious meal! And remember certain essential oils have immune benefits too.
- Try to avoid foods that can trigger an unhealthy inflammatory response, such as sugar, gluten, wheat/carbs, dairy. (Isn’t it interesting that these are what we affectionately call “comfort” foods?)
- Finally, add a good multi-vitamin to cover any missed nutrients. Choosing a pharmaceutical-grade brand, such as Thorne or Xymogen, will ensure the appropriate level of nutrients. If you struggle with healthy food intake or digestion issues, consider micronutrient testing (ie, Spectra-Cell) to help identify nutrient deficiencies and target the best nutrient supplements for you.
Need more information? Call or email today for a brief complimentary phone consultation.
For help in finding the best combination of nutrients or supplements suitable to your condition, or to discuss medical concerns or questions about potential medication-supplement interactions, call today to schedule your office or virtual wellness consultation.
Until next time,
Stay Awesome!
Dr. Charisse
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