Wow! What a time. It’s hard to have a conversation these past few weeks without the topic turning towards Covid-19. Most conversations have veered towards self-isolation and how to stay busy if you can’t work from home but in my eyes, the most important conversation we should be having is how to stay on top of your health during this pandemic. Individually, our immune systems can react differently, depending on your age and current state of health, if we do come in contact with the virus. We all know self-isolation is our number one priority to combat Covid-19 but today I am going to discuss a few ways you can boost your immune system to enhance your protection:
Eliminate overly processed foods. These are foods that will cause an inflammatory response within our body. If our body is in a constant state of inflammation, our immune system is weakened. Now’s the time to experiment with cooking! My general rule is if it comes from the ground, poops on the ground or swims in the sea you should be safe.
Include anti-inflammatory foods. These include foods high in Omega-3s (salmon, oysters, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts etc.), dark leafy green vegetables, turmeric, garlic, ginger, green tea etc. If you do not eat seafood I highly recommend supplementing with cod liver oil.
Include foods high in Vitamin D and get sunshine! Vitamin D is essential for immune system health. Foods to include are egg yolks, mushrooms, liver, fatty fish and once again supplementing with cod liver oil. When it comes to sunlight we absorb the majority of Vitamin D through our eyes, especially in colder temperatures when our skin isn’t as exposed. For those who wear contacts and glasses, it’s important to get outside for 20 minutes a day without wearing them as most contacts and glasses are UV protected.
Include foods high in Vitamin C. Once again Vitamin C is essential for immune system health. Foods to include are black currant, red pepper, kiwi, broccoli, kale, parsley and citrus fruits.
Drink lots of hot liquids. This helps keep the mouth moist and can wash virus matter that enters the mouth into the stomach where gastric juices neutralize it before it can get to the lunges. Hot water, organic coffee, tea and soup are all great choices.
Gargle daily with an antiseptic. This can help prevent respiratory infections caused by viruses and bacteria. Warm water with sea salt or himilayan salt, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice works well.
These are just a few of my daily practices while I’m social isolating at home. I’ve also been taking advantage of all this extra time to continue my education. I’ve recently started an herbalism course to extend my knowledge in the health and wellness field. I look forward to sharing what I learn with you in the future. My hope for you is that the nutrition information that I can provide helps to put your mind at ease. We are all in this together! If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact me at jennifermcclintockrhn@gmail.com.
