The immune system helps prevent and recover from various infections and diseases. Strong immunity is pivotal for the prevention and complete recovery from COVID-19.
COVID-19 (also called coronavirus disease) is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). The disease may manifest as mild to moderate respiratory illness in most people who may be easily treated at home.
Some high-risk groups, such as older people and people with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases) have a higher risk of getting a serious illness that requires hospital admission.
Learn eight tips to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of serious COVID-19 illness below.
8 tips to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of serious COVID-19 illness
- Get vaccinated: Vaccinations are the best and scientifically proven way to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19.
- It minimizes the risk of complications or getting seriously ill due to COVID-19. Get vaccinated against COVID-19 and do not miss your booster shots when recommended.
- Flu and COVID-19 coinfection may result in a more severe form of illness. Hence, you must take your annual flu shots according to the recommendations.
- Make sure the kids are vaccinated after seeking the pediatrician’s approval.
- Take treatment as advised: If you have got SARS-CoV-2 infection, contact your healthcare provider. Depending on the severity of your disease and any health conditions you may have, your doctor will recommend proper treatment.
- Proper medications help your immune system clear the infection from your body. Adhere to the treatment as prescribed by the doctor for complete and quick recovery from COVID-19.
- Stay hydrated: Water is called the elixir of life because the cells in the body need to perform their functions optimally.
- Drink enough water to keep your metabolic functions running smoothly and help your body get rid of the various waste and harmful products from your body.
- Most men need to drink about 15.5 cups or 3.7 L of water, and most women need about 11.5 cups or 2.7 L each day.
- When you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, you lose more fluids from your body and thus, need to drink even more water than you normally need.
- Eat whole foods: Consume more whole foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, seeds, and nuts.
- They provide you with various nutrients required for a healthy immune system.
- Take at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
- Get your protein needs met through healthy protein sources, such as skinless chicken, fish, lentils, dairy, and eggs.
- Ensure to get enough healthy fats through sources, such as nuts, nut butter, and plant-based oils.
- Avoid junk foods: Junk foods, such as fries, chips, and cookies, are calorie dense and nutrient deficient.
- Take probiotic-rich foods: Your gut plays a huge role to enhance your overall immunity.
- Maintain personal hygiene: Do not neglect your hygiene even when you are ill.
- Change your clothes and linen regularly.
- Maintain oral hygiene, practice frequent handwashing and take bath every day.
- These habits lower your risk of infections and help you feel good and refreshed.
- Get treatment for any underlying health conditions and nutritional deficiencies you may have: Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin D, iron, and calcium deficiencies, can weaken your immunity.
- Uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory diseases can make you more likely to get serious COVID-19.
- Hence, you must get a proper medical consultation to address any health conditions you may have.
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Medically Reviewed on 7/6/2022
References
Image Source: iStock image
Glick J. Boost Your Immune System to Help Fight Flu and COVID-19. Penn Medicine. https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/2022/february/boost-your-immune-system-to-help-fight-flu-and-covid-19
World Health Organization. Nutrition advice for adults during the COVID-19 outbreak. http://www.emro.who.int/nutrition/news/nutrition-advice-for-adults-during-the-covid-19-outbreak.html
Glick J. Boost Your Immune System to Help Fight Flu and COVID-19. Penn Medicine. https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/2022/february/boost-your-immune-system-to-help-fight-flu-and-covid-19
World Health Organization. Nutrition advice for adults during the COVID-19 outbreak. http://www.emro.who.int/nutrition/news/nutrition-advice-for-adults-during-the-covid-19-outbreak.html
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