The Do’s and Don’ts in Supporting Immune System

Supporting your immune system doesn’t mean you’ll not be able to catch any infection. It differs for each individual. A healthy immune system may not prevent you from getting infected with the virus, but it helps some patients recover faster. An Australian researcher who tracked patients with Coronavirus Disease found many healthy patients with strong immunity could recover quickly. It shows that even though the new virus causes the infection, if not a healthy individual, a strong immune reaction through different cell types were linked with clinical recovery, the same as what they’ve seen in influenza.

On the other hand, these vulnerable groups have a greater risk of being infected with the infection. These people include older people, cancer patients, or people with underlying conditions. If you are a cancer survivor or under treatment and concerned about how the situation might impact you, contact your care team. Below are the dos and don’ts;

DO:

1. Eat Colorful Veggies and Fruits as Part of Your Balanced Diet

Right nutrients are vital to immune function. Proteins high in zinc help spur the formation of antibodies and white blood cells that fight disease.

2. Make Sure To Have Enough Calories

Having insufficient protein and calories might compromise your immune system. If you find it hard to maintain your weight or lose weight, you can contact your health care provider and ask to adjust your nutrition plan. Consult your doctor first if you consider taking a multivitamin.

3. Keep a Regular Sleep Schedule

Put an effort to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Researchers have shown that sleep is vital in regulating immune function. Poor sleep habits harm the immune system and overall health.

4. Have At Least 150 Minutes of Physical Activity or Exercise in a Week

Exercise shows lessen stress and improve the regulation of the immune system. However, it is still essential to consult your doctor before doing any form of exercise routine.

DON’T

1. Smoke

People who smoke tend to get more respiratory infections or colds.

2. Go Out In a Public Setting Unless It Is Needed

Remember to wear masks if you must go out. Always have hand sanitizer or wipes on hand. If you must have your grocery or foods deliver, do it.

3. Be taken with Supplement Which Claims to Have a Specific Health Benefits

Remember that your immune cells function as a system that needs many components that work together to do well. If you begin to flood it with too many vitamins, supplements, or minerals, you might throw it out of balance. Too many antioxidants and vitamins can create an imbalance. There is an ideal window of opportunity, and too little or too much could harm any nutrient. Excessive zinc may interfere with copper absorption and also harm the immune system. Before taking any of these, you must consult with your health care provider first. Various supplements might counteract treatments such as chemotherapy and might as well cause harmful side effects.