The best defense is a good offense. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many people are concerned with staying healthy and strengthening their immune system. The immune system helps to prevent infection and fight off illness. As just one of many systems in the body, it requires balance and harmony with the rest of your body in order for it to function optimally.
Doctors say the best way to stay healthy is to wash your hands, practice social distancing, and staying home as much as possible. Here are six healthy-living strategies you can implement from the comfort of your home to improve your overall health and give your immune system the upper hand.
1. Wash your hands and keep frequently touched surfaces clean.
If there is one thing the COVID-19 outbreak has taught us, it’s personal hygiene (anyone else notices how much they touch their face?!). Doctors across the board agree washing your hands frequently is an absolute necessity to prevent illness and keep you and your family safe.
The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds (try humming the “happy birthday” song twice). Using Sea Enzyme Seaweed Citrus Hand and Body Wash will keep your hands clean and hydrated so staying germ-free doesn’t come with the cost of dry, cracked skin. With ingredients like seaweed extract, lemon bioflavonoids, and citrus oils, you and your family will have skin that is clean and soft. Follow up with Doctor D. Schwab Clinical Intensive Hand Cream for extra moisture and environmental protection.
To keep your hands clean at all times (even without water), use your Doctor D. Schwab Invisible Glove™ Hand Sanitizer.
2. Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
Now is not the time to stress your digestive system with heavily processed foods, refined sugar, and excess alcohol. While there are tons of fad diets out there claiming to be “the one” to take all your problems away, the verdict remains - incorporating organic, whole plant foods into your diet you can ward off chronic diseases and keep your immune system functioning optimally.
Plant foods provide a variety of vitamins and nutrients along with tons of fiber to feed your gut microbiome, the community of healthy bacteria in your gut. Keeping the gut microbiome healthy can help keep harmful pathogens from entering your body. Dark leafy greens, green fruits and vegetables, and citrus fruits have the most immune boosting properties.
Opt for organic when you can. At Doctor D. Schwab, we use organic ingredients whenever possible and we encourage you to eat organic as well. Organic refers to the way a food was grown, raised, or produced, and is certified based on government standards. Pesticides have been shown to create extra work for the immune system, causing cancer and disease in the liver, kidneys, and blood. Pesticides accumulate in the organs, resulting in a weakened immune system, allowing carcinogens and pathogens to filter into the body.
In addition, some traditional herbs and spices have been known for being antiviral and immune strengthening. Garlic, onions, and ginger are known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties and are often used as natural antibiotics. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, and Echinacea is said to be a cold and flu combatant due to its immune strengthening and antimicrobial properties.
Always consult your health care provider before adding supplements into your diet.
3. Exercise regularly
Just like a healthy diet, regular exercise can contribute to vibrant health and in turn, a healthy immune system. Physical activity is a well known stress reducer and reduces the risk of many chronic diseases that weaken your immune system.
If you're not used to exercising, start small as overdoing it can strain the system. Aim for a walk outside for at least 20 minutes per day.
Check to see if your local hiking trails are open and take this time to connect with nature as well. Be sure to stay hydrated while active and bring sunscreen (Sea Enzyme Ultra-Umbrella Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30) to protect yourself from harmful rays.
If you do leave the house to go on a walk (or head to the grocery store) be sure to bring your Doctor D. Schwab Invisible Glove™ Hand Sanitizer.
4. Minimize stress
Make time for yourself and try to relax. In addition to exercise, developing a meditation or mindfulness practice is an excellent tool to incorporate into your routine especially during times of high stress.
Meditation is linked to reduced anxiety, stress, inflammation, and in turn, strengthened immunity.
Another way to reduce stress is by treating yourself to a spa day at home with one of Doctor D. Schwab’s Face Masks. Slightly warming the Ambrosia Honey-Almond Mask soothes the skin and helps to relax pores while balancing rejuvenating overly stressed skin.
5. Sleep
Sleep and immunity are closely related as we need to rest and recover to heal. Sleep helps the body to redistribute energy resources primarily used for brain and muscle work while we’re awake to the immune system. The National Foundation of Sleep recommends adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, some sleep hygiene tips include:
- Reading a book before bed
- Sleeping in a dark room
- Using a sleeping mask or earplugs
- Limiting screen time for an hour before bed, as the blue light from your phone, TV, and computer can disrupt your sleeping patterns)
- Going to sleep at the same time every night
- Regular physical activity
6. Avoid Toxins
What you put on your skin is just as important as what you eat. Our skin is the largest organ of the body with a total area of about 20 square feet. Always opt for safe ingredients that are paraben-free and natural. The Doctor D. Schwab Clinical Intensive Hand Cream has all-natural ingredients that are safe and provides maximum moisturization.
While in self-isolation, it’s a great time to clean out your beauty and hair products that have harsh chemicals and toxins. Some common to look out for in lotion are Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Parabens.
Washing your hands and practicing social distancing are the best ways to avoid COVID-19. While you’re at home, remember to take care of your basic needs. Implementing these six healthy living habits will keep all of your systems functioning in harmony all year long.
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