And five simple action steps you can do now.
As we enter into this new ‘normal’ and start mingling with our family, friends and our community again, now is the perfect time to give your body the extra TLC that it needs to support your immune system. To help you (and your family) with this, we’ve compiled a list of tools and critical nutrients for strong immunity.
1. Eat nourishing, whole foods
Whole foods are full of highly nourishing essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and micronutrients. Up to 75% of the immune system is located in the gut, so whatever supports your gut health, also supports your immunity. Win-win!
2. Get your eight hours sleep
Sleep is a basic biological necessity as it allows our bodies to recover and regenerate. Consistently getting good quality sleep improves our mood, mental ability, memory and physical performance. Sleep is also beneficial as a preventative measure against illness and if you do get sick, it can aid in recovery.
3. Boost your nutrient intake
Every single process and function in the body is powered by nutrients – this includes the workings of our immune system. Think of nutrients as your army. You need to have ample soldiers for your first line of immunity defence and nutrients play that role.
When looking to add extra beneficial nutrients into your diet, a good, high-quality multivitamin and fish oil is a fantastic place to start.
4. Hygiene and ‘physically’ distancing
Like the saying goes, ‘offence is your best defence’. Many of you already know the drill here: washing your hands with hot, soapy water, avoiding touching your face while out and about and coughing away from others, into your elbow. While they may sound simple, these things are very effective at helping to keep you protected.
While physical distancing is required at this time, it’s also very important for our mental health that we stay socially active – virtually. Particularly for our elderly family and those who are alone during this time.
5. Lastly, keep calm and carry on
Stress is one of the biggest compromises of the immune system. During times of change, it can be helpful to focus your attention on what you can control, rather than what’s beyond you.