For returning readers, it is no surprise we are continuing our series on strengthening the immune system. With normal stresses and additional COVID-19 stresses, life can seem a chaotic. To ease patients’ heavy loads, we are sharing ways to boost the immune system during the upcoming holiday season.
Strengthen your immune system for back-to-school:
Getting back to school is rough on children as it is parents and faculty. For those with children in school, it may seem like you have begun to get a hold on a weekday routine. With activities beginning to resume and entertainment options opening up, it is an exciting time for all.
However, with our bodies being shut indoors and away from others for so long, our immune systems may be out of wack. You may experience some sniffles, a scratchy throat, or headaches.
It is not uncommon to feel these symptoms. But with justified caution, a quick COVID-19 test may relieve your worries. Once you know it is just your body feeling peculiar, jump back on over to our blogs where we have shared natural ways to boost the immune system.
Healthy foods for a strong immune system:
In the most recent blogs, we shared that the following natural substances help with immunity:
- garlic
- probiotics
- beta-gluans
- raw honey
- selenium
- zinc
- vitamin A
- vitamin C
- vitamin D
Fun fact: vitamin D is the only nutrient the human body produces when exposed to sunlight. However, about forty percent of the United States are deficient in vitamin D. Vegans and vegetarians are at a high risk for being deficient.
The following are great foods to add to your diet for vitamin D:
- salmon
- herring
- sardines
- cod liver oil
- canned tuna
- egg yolks
- mushrooms
- fortified foods (certain milks, soy milks, cereals, oatmeals and orange juices
Although the holidays may look pretty different for most families in the United States, the anticipation and preparation may be overwhelming. For starters, be sure to get sufficient, quality sleep. Stay hydrated, and reduce stress when possible.
Exercise regularly, even if it is not intense workouts, it is great to get your heart rate up for about thirty minutes. Schedule an appointment with your doctors while your deductibles are met!
Local hearing center to share more ways to boost immunity:
Be sure to visit your local ENT hearing center if you have been trouble hearing people while wearing masks. Many people rely on reading lips but do not realize that it may be a sign of hearing loss.
Generation Z and millennials have grown up with earbuds in their ears, but do not understand the long-term effects high volumes can produce. Additionally, many Americans still clean their ears in an improper form resulting in hearing loss. Do not hesitate to ask your knowledgeable ENT doctors on the proper ear cleaning methods.
Come back next time if you enjoy this series and would like to learn more about staying your healthiest!
Staff Writer
