Immune boosters
Whilst social distancing continues to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19, there are a number of additional ways we can better our immune system to help protect ourselves from the coronavirus. Cheryl Lythgoe, Head Matron at Benenden Health shares her top tips...
PRACTICE GOOD HYGIENE
Contact with a surface, object or person that’s been contaminated, then touching your face can lead to spreading the infection.
Wash your hands well before eating, after visiting the toilet, as well as returning from visiting a supermarket or other essential travel.
EAT A BALANCED AND HEALTHY DIET
Ensuring your body gets the right vitamins and nutrients is a great way to boost your immune system. By including seasonal fruits and vegetables in your food shop, you are more likely to snack on these throughout the week, instead of foods that compromise your immune system.
SLEEP WELL (AND AVOID STRESS)
A good night’s sleep will help you fight viruses. Lack of sleep can cause the body’s immune system to go into overdrive, much in the same way stress affects our body. Stress decreases the body’s white blood cells that help fight off infection – making
STOP SMOKING
Of course, it is common knowledge that quitting smoking will help your health in innumerable ways. However, it has also been found that when individuals encounter a viral infection, smokers’ immune systems go into overdrive.
KEEP FITNESS LEVELS UP
Maintaining a healthy weight and level of fitness can improve overall health, as well as help keep your chance of infection at bay as it flushes bacteria out of the lungs and airways
For more information on how to stay physically and mentally healthy during the coronavirus outbreak, visit Benenden Health’s dedicated COVID-19 hub.