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Here are eight tips to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of serious COVID-19 illness.
The immune system helps prevent and recover from various infections and diseases. Strong immunity is pivotal for the prevention and complete recovery from COVID-19.
COVID-19 (also called coronavirus disease) is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). The disease may manifest as mild to moderate respiratory illness in most people who may be easily treated at home.
Some high-risk groups, such as older people and people with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases) have a higher risk of getting a serious illness that requires hospital admission.
Learn eight tips to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of serious COVID-19 illness below.
8 tips to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of serious COVID-19 illness
- Get vaccinated: Vaccinations are the best and scientifically proven way to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19. It minimizes the risk of complications or getting seriously ill due to COVID-19. Get vaccinated against COVID-19 and do not miss your booster shots when recommended. Flu and COVID-19 coinfection may result in a more severe form of illness. Hence, you must take your annual flu shots according to the recommendations. Make sure the kids are vaccinated after seeking the pediatrician’s approval.
- Take treatment as advised: If you have got SARS-CoV-2 infection, contact your healthcare provider. Depending on the severity of your disease and any health conditions you may have, your doctor will recommend proper treatment. Proper medications help your immune system clear the infection from your body. Adhere to the treatment as prescribed by the doctor for complete and quick recovery from COVID-19.
- Stay hydrated: Water is called the elixir of life because the cells in the body need to perform their functions optimally. Drink enough water to keep your metabolic functions running smoothly and help your body get rid of the various waste and harmful products from your body. Most men need to drink about 15.5 cups or 3.7 L of water, and most women need about 11.5 cups or 2.7 L each day. When you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, you lose more fluids from your body and thus, need to drink even more water than you normally need.
- Eat whole foods: Consume more whole foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, seeds, and nuts. They provide you with various nutrients required for a healthy immune system. Take at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Get your protein needs met through healthy protein sources, such as skinless chicken, fish, lentils, dairy, and eggs. Ensure to get enough healthy fats through sources, such as nuts, nut butter, and plant-based oils.
- Avoid junk foods: Junk foods, such as fries, chips, and cookies, are calorie dense and nutrient deficient. They may even be difficult to digest when you are unwell. Many junk foods contain unhealthy ingredients that can harm your immunity and general health. Added sugars can contribute to diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, which further weaken your immunity.
- Take probiotic-rich foods: Your gut plays a huge role to enhance your overall immunity. Take probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, buttermilk, tempeh, miso, and vegetable pickles. Get enough fiber in your diet through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep your gut healthy.
- Maintain personal hygiene: Do not neglect your hygiene even when you are ill. Change your clothes and linen regularly. Maintain oral hygiene, practice frequent handwashing and take bath every day. These habits lower your risk of infections and help you feel good and refreshed.
- Get treatment for any underlying health conditions and nutritional deficiencies you may have: Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin D, iron, and calcium deficiencies, can weaken your immunity. Uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory diseases can make you more likely to get serious COVID-19. Hence, you must get a proper medical consultation to address any health conditions you may have.
