Supporting our Immune System

The current pandemic we are facing with Covid-19 is affecting us all on some level – whether it be physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Most likely some of each of those aspects. In a crisis such of this, it is heart-warming to see and hear the effort our community is putting forward to provide support to friends, family, neighbours, and even strangers. We are all in this together – whether we want to be or not.

The elderly and immune-compromised individuals are most at risk during this viral outbreak, and so offering our assistance to provide groceries, meals, medication pick-up, cleaning supplies, and emotional aid from afar can be a huge help. There is much fear and panic worldwide surrounding coronavirus, and it is hard to escape it often – every time we turn on the t.v. or radio we are updated; it is the hot topic when we pick-up the phone to call our family/friends; and in our work place it is affecting us greatly. It is important to be up-to-date on the ever-changing news on the virus, but we must also continue to live our lives as much as we can. Stress can have a huge impact on our physical and mental health, and over time it can negatively affect our immune system and our emotional well-being.

Below, you will find some ways to encourage you to support your immune system during this ever-challenging time on your body.

1. Try to get outside daily to breathe in fresh air. Consider getting into nature for a walk, a hike, or a bike ride. This is important to provide circulation and oxygen to our body, as well as to clear our mind.
2. Proper sleep. It is rejuvenating and restorative for your body in so many ways, including enhancing your immune system and better adaptation for the stress response.
3. Eat a balanced diet. Try to focus on eating well – eat regularly, consume lean protein, ‘good’ fats, a variety of veggies and fruits, and limit refined sugar.
4. Supplement with immune–enhancing vitamins, minerals and herbs. This includes, but is not limited to, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, B complex, zinc, calcium/magnesium, Reishi and Cordyceps mushrooms, Ashwaganda, and omega 3 fish oils.
5. Increase your consumption of anti-oxidants and foods that are nutrient-rich such as berries, spinach, sprouts, garlic, onions, ginger, parsley, cilantro, spirulina, celery juice, bone broth, and fermented foods and beverages.
6. Keep hydrated. Drink lots of water and herbal teas to support your immune system and flush out any toxins.
7. Hand washing! Repeat and repeat and repeat!
8. Social distancing and self-isolation – these terms seem to be a part of our daily vocabulary now. Enjoy time by yourself or with your family at home. Now is the time to get caught up on your reading, movies, board games, puzzles, cooking, and enjoying quality time with your family.
9. IV (Intravenous) Vitamin/Mineral therapy : Can provide a high dose of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream. This can greatly boost the immune system and improve your overall health and well-being.

As Covid-19 moves through our community, our province, our country, and our world at large, try to be mindful of taking each day as it comes. Be as healthy as you can through breathing fresh air, eating nutritious meals, getting lots of rest and sleep, supplementing where needed, and enjoying your home environment. Let’s try to stay strong through this evolving pandemic, and reach out for support as you need to.

Author Info

Ashely Gordon