While improving your immunity is not a very easy thing to do, there are some lifestyle and dietary changes that can make it possible. Adapting such changes makes up capable of handling petty conditions affecting us. Plus, we become stronger to combat harmful organisms and pathogens that cause diseases. As you read further, you will find here the best ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention.
The coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak causes several telltale symptoms and signs. For example, dry cough, fever, and breathing problems are some of the signs that require immediate medical attention. Sadly, the world is still waiting for proper antiviral medications and vaccines to treat such a complicated situation. Till then, every individual needs to know about supporting treatments such as immunity-boosting. Also, it is important to know that maintaining proper hygiene and social distancing is a must along with the best ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention.
Suppose you are experiencing very mild symptoms of COVID-19 and do not suffer from any other complications. Then you can easily try to incorporate some natural sources of vitamins and organic supplements. As a result, there will be an improvement in your immunity, and you will be able to fight any other symptoms of the virus. The ‘other complications’, that we mention here include diabetes, cancer, COPD, asthma, heart problems, HIV, kidney problems, and more. Also, people above the age of 60 years or older adults are more prone to this dangerous virus.
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Ways to Boost Immunity for COVID prevention
Since there is still no mention of any FDA approved supplement, the following vitamins are what you must intake. The best way is to incorporate these into your daily diet to make the immune system stronger. Besides, you already know that the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to normal flu. So, Vitamins B, C, D, and other supplements such as zinc works well for the condition.
Vitamin C
As you may already know that Vitamin C is generally very effective to get rid of flu symptoms or to recover from it faster. It works like magic if you consume sources of Vitamin C regularly because it improves your immunity. As a result, you become naturally stronger to fight flu and cold. Vitamin C is a fantastic antioxidant too and therefore helps in reducing inflammatory problems. For example, inflammation in the lungs is a major symptom of COVID-19. A person can die of respiratory illness that results from lung inflammation. So, if you have still not started taking Vitamin C, you should surely start now.
Vitamin D
What is the major function that Vitamin D performs for your body? Well, it is the main factor that keeps a healthy balance of blood flow of phosphorous and calcium. There are two ways in which you can mainly get the benefits of Vitamin D regularly. First is of course by letting your body absorb some amount of the UV rays of the sun. Secondly, you can include foods rich in Vitamin D in your daily diet. You can also enhance your diet with some of the best Vitamin D supplements that are available in the market. Getting proper amounts of Vitamin D will keep you protected against respiratory illness. For example, Vitamin D is used in medicines that are prescribed for respiratory tract infections.
Vitamin B
Not just vitamin B, but your body also requires proper amounts of B complex vitamins for better immunity. You can easily include Vitamin B in your daily diet or as a part of a multivitamin supplement. Moreover, the best way to include vitamin D in your daily diet is by consuming fortified cereals.
Zinc
Every throat lozenge or over-the-counter medicine for flu and cold consists of zinc. So, it is evident why we say that zinc helps you to fight against viral infections and cold. Zinc works wonders against frustrating conditions such as nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Besides, zinc is capable of producing and activating T-cells that enhances the body’s capability to fight against infections. So, all of this makes it evident that zinc is surely one of the best ways to boost immunity to prevent an infection.
For the best effects of zinc supplements, start intaking as soon as you notice the slightest of symptoms. While the general dosage of zinc is 75 mg, consuming more than the double can be harmful. It can cause zinc toxicity, and your health may start deteriorating instead. All of this will have a severe negative effect on the immune system that can even result in permanent harm. So, the best option is to consult a doctor before deciding a particular dosage for any illness.
Ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention- effective supplements
Irrespective of whether you take it in the form of medicine or as a whole food, here is a list of a few effective supplements. These will help you to stay healthy and are some of the best ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention.
Elderberry
Packed with anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, elderberry syrup is widely used as a treatment for colds, sinus infections, and flu. Elderberry is an effective remedy for all these symptoms because it can reduce swelling problems in your mucus membranes. According to several pieces of research, the properties in elderberry helps to bring down the duration of any cold or flu conditions. Besides, it will work well to protect you from the dangerous coronavirus infection too.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are rich in Vitamin B and selenium. The Vitamin B properties include niacin and riboflavin. These come together to protect your immune system against the harsh effects of flu and diseases. Mushrooms are likewise high in polysaccharides, which are sugar-like particles that boost immunity too.
Astragalus
Astragalus is the name of a herb, and the root of it forms a part of medicines used for boosting immunity. Apart from boosting immunity, Astragalus supplements can also treat respiratory infections, common cold, swine flu, and allergies. You can consume astragalus supplements to make your body strong enough to fight viruses and bacteria as well.
Since it is an organic supplement, it is not yet approved by any official board of medicines. However, some proofs will tell you about the effects of Astragalus in treating flu and seasonal allergies. The ideal way to use the herb is by taking 160 mg of the root extracts and consume it every day. You have to follow this routine for at least 3-6 weeks for the best results. The overdose of no medicine is ideal, and Astragalus extract is no exception. It also helps to keep away signs of runny nose, sneezing, and itching away.
Selenium
Selenium is known as a multipurpose mineral that is also one of the best ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention. It is extensively used in vaccines that can treat swine flu and bird flu. It is also a fantastic antioxidant that treats toxins inside the body. While it is true that selenium can treat immunity issues, autoimmune diseases are exceptions. Consuming selenium, in that case, could lead to adverse effects. So, it is a suggestion that you consult a doctor before starting to consume selenium regularly to boost immunity.
Garlic
Garlic, as we all know is a magical ingredient that works for several health problems. Boosting immunity is one of those many good effects of garlic. Apart from that it also helps in reducing symptoms of flu and cold in situations such as COVID-19. According to research garlic worked better against symptoms of cold in comparison to clinically tested placebo pills. Garlic also helps to reduce the duration of allergies and flu. The best part is that you can consume this ingredient in both whole and supplement form. Besides, there are so many delicious ways in which you can incorporate garlic in your daily diet.
Andrographis
Andrographis is the name of a plant that is avidly used in the making of vaccines and medicines for several ailments. It is often used to treat fever, common cold, flu, aching body. You can start consuming a blend of Siberian Ginseng with Andrographis for the best effects. If you can start the medicine immediately when you experience symptoms of the flu or allergy, it can work like magic.
According to a study, the effects of the blend starts within 24 hours of consumption. As per other reports, Andrographis extract mixed with Siberian Ginseng works better than amantadine, which is a medically tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is also effective in reducing the after-effects of an allergy or flu. For example, sinus pain, coughing or breathing issues are some of the after-effects we are talking about here.
Licorice root
One of the most common symptoms of the COVID-19 infection is a sore throat, and licorice can work effectively against it. Yes, you heard it right because licorice root is a tested herb that can soothe a sore throat. Also, licorice works well to cure inflammation and congestion problems. These are issues that ultimately result in serious respiratory disorder, if not treated properly. Besides, COVID-19 is nothing but a more dangerous version of the respiratory issue that leads to problems such as pneumonia. The most common way of consuming licorice root is by either adding it to make tea or simply chewing it.
Pelargonium sidoides
Another name of pelargonium sidoides is Umcikaloabo and is a great way to treat advanced-level respiratory problems. For example, bronchitis, tonsillitis, sore throat, sinusitis, and the common cold are some of these problems. If you can consume pelargonium sidoides extract for ten days at a stretch, you will recover from any symptoms of the common cold. Also, it works as fast as withing just two days for bronchitis patients. The only thing that you must remember is that you must start consuming it immediately when you feel unwell.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the scientific term used for turmeric which is a common ingredient in every household. Turmeric or curcumin derives the name because it is a part of the Curcuma longa plant. This humble ingredient contains high amounts of analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can combat inflammation and also boost the immunity power of the body.
Acai berry
Acai berry is one of the most effective supplements that contain stimulators and antioxidant properties. Besides, it is so effective that scientists all over the world are trying to incorporate the ingredient in medicines. Such medicines will be useful for treating multiple conditions in association with cold and flu. Also, acai berry is often recommended as a way of boosting immunity and health in general.
Tips to stay safe during COVID-19
Apart from all the vitamins, nutrients, food, and supplements, you also have to know a few tips. These will help you to maintain good health and immunity during tough times. Following these will keep you away from the effects of coronavirus. Check out the list!
Enough sleep
Good sleep is a solution to several health problems. An average adult should sleep for about 7-9 hours every day. The lack of proper sleep can make you fall sick and the opposite can boost your immunity naturally. If you are not getting enough sleep, try to do meditation, and keep away gadgets from your bed. Also, try to cut-off screen time right before you are about to go to bed.
Healthy fats
As you may already know, the consumption of healthy fats helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Apart from that, it is also one of the best ways to boost immunity for COVID prevention. You can have fatty fishes such as salmon along with olive oil, chia seeds, and more.
Probiotics
Consuming fermented foods and probiotics helps good bacteria to multiply in your body, leaving no place for the harmful ones. The best way to incorporate probiotics is by consuming curd or yogurt daily.
Limit sugars
Refined carbs and added sugars act like poison for your health and immunity. Besides they are the major reasons why you may develop obesity. So, try to cut-off such ingredients to lead a healthy life.
Moderate exercise
Physical exercise is a must for boosting immunity. So, you must participate in a minimum of half an hour of yoga or exercise every day.
Final thoughts:
It is your responsibility to be cautious and adapt all preventive measures during the pandemic. So, try to incorporate the above-mentioned supplements in your daily routine for better immunity.
