Now more than ever it has become important to keep our immunity boosted and our body in tip-top condition. Instead of focussing on any one superfood or herb, increase your intake of fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids and eat a balanced diet.
Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, avoiding going overboard with alcohol, fad diets and cleanses is a step in the right direction. Managing stress is important for a healthy immune system and this can include stress around dieting, especially with media focusing on weight gain during the pandemic. In fact, it might be helpful to cut back on consuming any media that triggers stress or unhealthy habits and expectations.
Exercise is another important factor. Recommended amounts of moderate-intensity physical activity typically range between 150 to 300 minutes per week and are consistent with enhanced immunosurveillance and lowered risk for respiratory illness.
If more vigorous forms of exercise are beyond you at present, even walking, yoga, and meditation and breathing exercises can be beneficial. The most important thing is consistency. Find a way to move regularly that you enjoy, or at least don’t hate, so you keep doing it. Dancing around while doing your household chores also counts as a workout.
Other simple but essential habits for a healthy immune system include getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Staying hydrated, and practicing good personal hygiene is also important. If you do take any vitamins or supplements, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor and have basic blood work done to identify any places where you may be deficient and then supplement accordingly.
Instead of worrying and stressing over things that we have no control over during the #newnormal, take this time to take care of yourself.
THE LIFESTYLE COLLECTIVE 