Now more than ever it’s important to do everything we can to boost our immunity. With all the talk around covid 19 it still amazes me how little you hear about practical ways to stay healthy and prevent serious illness. We hear about hand washing, social distancing and wearing a mask. While all of these are important, building a strong immunity is the most important resource we have. Getting good sleep, breathing fresh air, having a positive mindset and keeping active are all extremely important for maintaining good health. However, the food you eat becomes your cells and your very being. It is crucial to feed your one precious body with the most nutrient dense foods available. Fresh, local, and organic is always best - but frozen is an excellent option. The more colorful foods you can add to your plate the better.
Since the Covid 19 is a respiratory virus, daily practices that support the immunity of your lungs and respiratory system are even more vital.
You Are What You Eat! - Just like your Mom told you, and your immune system is also what you eat. What you feed your body three times a day, year after year, becomes your cells, your skin and your immune system. Eating as many fruits and vegetables as possible is crucial for a strong immunity. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and phytochemicals. Be sure to eat enough healthy plant based protein to keep yourself strong and balanced. Aim for several servings of legumes, nuts, tofu, tempeh and seitan every day. Also, adding soymilk to your diet will give you great hydration, lots of plant based protein and those healthy isoflavones.
Hydration is key! - Try beginning every day with warm lemon water to hydrate your body, get your metabolism going and to reduce inflammation. The added vitamin c will help to keep you healthy and glowing. Try sipping warm water or herbal tea throughout the day to keep your lung mucous moist and healthy. Your lungs are 90% water and need to be properly hydrated to pump the oxygen to your body. The recommendation is to drink half of your body weight in ounces of water daily. In addition to this eating foods that contain water will aid in keeping you hydrated and healthy. Thin lots of fresh vegetables, fruits & soup!
Get Your Beauty Sleep! - Getting enough sleep is vital for keeping our immune system healthy, maintaining a healthy weight and aging beautifully. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than one third of US adults don't get the recommended 7 hours of sleep per night. Stay away from caffeine in the afternoon and food and alcohol for several hours before bed is helpful. Try turning your lights down several hours before bed time, unplugging lap tops, tv and cell phone will also help. A night time routine is important for unwinding. I like to relax in a salt bath with candles and lavender oil. Making your bedroom as much of a sanctuary as your budget allows is also very soothing and comforting.
Manage Your Stress! - Your state of mind has a huge effect on your health and your immune system. Be sure to get enough exercise, yoga, meditation and breathing exercises are very useful as is a good walk with a friend. Breathe in the fresh air and connect with friends at the same time.
