Optimise your natural immune defence
Simple Tips to help optimise your natural immune defence
(for more detailed information, please see below
a link to a series of short videos)
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Sleep – this is number one in my books – and research shows that a lack of good sleep weakens your immune system. Try to get regular 7-9 hours night sleep
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Fresh air (and sunshine, as available) – for oxygenation, stress reduction, vitamin D3 production (summer months)
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Laughter and fun – for stress reduction. Stress hormones can imbalance and reduce our immune responses
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Avoid sugar excess, processed foods and alcohol, as they all can affect negatively the immune system
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Avoid excessive amounts of starches (especially wheat-based) and dairy (especially cow's milk dairy) as they are mucus-forming
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Eat “a rainbow” every day – for antioxidants, vitamins and minerals
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Keep well hydrated – for good lymphatic flow and detoxification (the lymphatic circulation takes white blood cells where they are needed in the body); have 1.5-2 litres of total daily fluid, mainly as filtered water and herbal teas
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Avoid getting cold. Warm up with exercise, a hot bath or a sauna (if not contraindicated)
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Use warming and protective herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, liquorice (not the sweet), cardamom, ginger, horseradish, chilli, garlic, onion, thyme, yarrow
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With the help of a qualified practitioner, check for individual specific needs (and potential interactions with medication) of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that support a good and balanced immune response, in particular: vitamin D3 (ideally check levels first), vitamin C, zinc, beta-glucans and herbs like Andrographis
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And, of course, wash your hands - to avoid high microorganism load
Watch these videos from the College of Naturopathic Medicine:
- What you need to know about the Corona virus
- Preventative measures
- If you become infected
https://www.naturopathy-uk.com/coronavirus