COVID-19: Immune Support
Here are a few tips on how to support your immune system and possible reduce risk of infection during this outbreak.
Background Information
The new coronavirus (aka COVID-19) is thought to spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes within 6 feet of another person. According to the CDC, these droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby, hence the need for social distancing. Testing for the virus is currently very limited. This means that many of us will not know if have been exposed if we do not exhibit symptoms. Why is that important to know? Because those who are asymptomatic may still be infectious, which is why we must practice social isolation for the time being.
Wash Your Hands
While hand-washing should already be a routine part of our lives, we should increase our awareness to do so during times like this. Wet your hands with warm water, apply soap, lather it all over your hands, and rinse. This process should last at least 20 seconds to ensure that you're actually killing bugs off. Now, this doesn't mean that you need to use anti-bacterial soap. Any soap will do. So please wash your hands routinely, especially after having touched a shared surface. If you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Keep Your Hands Away From Your Face
We tend to touch our face dozens of times per day. Whether you bite your nails, pick at acne, rub your eyes, or just nervously touch your face, now is the time to kick that habit. A person can get infected by touching that object and then touching their own eyes, nose, or mouth, although this is not the main mode of transmission.
Eat Clean
The main food culprits of inflammation are: sugar, gluten, and dairy. While not everyone is sensitive to these foods, studies have shown that they can cause unnecessary inflammatory responses in the body. For instance, dairy could cause your body to produce extra mucus, which is something we prefer to avoid when sick. Now more than ever, we should avoid causing more inflammation and stress on the body. Instead, opt for whole foods like lean protein, nuts, seeds, legumes, and vegetables.
Practice Stress Reduction
Stress can be another factor that causes inflammation and affects the immune system. If you don't practice meditation or yoga, try a simple breathing exercise like the 4-7-8 breathing technique developed by Dr. Andrew Weil. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold that breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat up to 10 times and practice this technique at least twice a day.
Supplements to Help Support The Immune System
Vitamin C - This antioxidant helps protect cells against free radical damage and boosts the immune system. Take 1g vitamin C twice a day prophylactically.
Propolis Tincture - Bee propolis has been around for decades, if not centuries, for its anti-microbial properties. We normally take 1 dropper twice a day for preventative measures.
UltraFlora Immune Booster - Metagenics' probiotic blend is formulated to contain healthy bacteria that support nasal, sinus, and respiratory health. The recommended dosage is 1 capsule per day.
Vitamin D - Many of us lack sufficient amounts of vitamin D, which is an essential vitamin vital for various biological processes. In combination with vitamin K2, it can help support a healthy immune system.