Yet again, the second wave of coronavirus has wreaked havoc in our lives. While we were getting used to the new normal, the sudden increase in coronavirus cases again scares us. The healthcare workers constantly urge to stay at home and not step out until it's urgent. They are also suggesting boosting the immunities to combat the deadly virus and follow safety precautions.
The vaccination drive is taking place in full swing, though it will take time for everyone to be vaccinated. Moreover, people who have been vaccinated need to follow safety guidelines to stay safe. Here are a few tips to strengthen our immunity, especially during the second wave of coronavirus: -
Experts say that good and sound sleep is the key to maintain a good immune system. When we sleep at night, the body can release T cells, growth hormones, and epinephrine back into circulation that helps kill the pathogens. Moreover, during sleep, our body repairs the cells, especially the brain cells. Also, when we fell ill, getting adequate rest and sleep naturally boost our immunity. Therefore, sleep provides essential support to the immune system.
Adding antioxidants to the diet
It is important to fill our plates with nutritious foods in order to boost immunity. Foods rich in antioxidants, including Vitamin A, C, D, E, and zinc, and selenium, are really important. In addition, whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes help fight against harmful pathogens. Antioxidants neutralize free radical damage in our body and cool down inflammation. They also repair the damaged cells and DNA. So, we should consume more antioxidant and nutrition-rich food to stay healthy and strong.
Drinking water is essential in keeping our bodies healthy. Hydration is the primary key to our lives. Dehydration can cause several problems, including indigestion, physical performance, headache, kidney functioning problems, etc. So, proper hydration is a must to maintain daily life functions. Moreover, drinking enough water helps in weight loss and keeps our skin clear.
Stay active and exercise regularly
Moderate exercise can decrease inflammation and encourage the healthy turnover of immune cells. Regular exercising helps in a healthy body and mind, further keeps our immunity strong. This is because physical exercise puts our body under short-term stress called eustress, leading to stronger and more resilient health in the long term. Other activities like running or swimming, high-intensity exercise, dancing and aerobics, and weightlifting also benefit the immune system.
For immune health, it is crucial to relieve stress and anxiety. Prolonged or too much stress can promote inflammation and imbalance immune cell functioning. It is imperative for us to practice mindfulness activities to lower stress levels, including meditation, yoga, dance, painting, listening to soothing music, and listing a few. Apart from these relaxation techniques, there are a few behavioral therapies like talk and laugh therapy, which help deal with stress and anxiety.
It is crucial to boost our immune system to stay fit and healthy and fight against this deadly coronavirus disease.