Unless you have been living under a rock, and even if you have been - you have likely been impacted by the pandemic of COVID-19 (aka coronavirus). And of course, we have all been inundated with the messaging of washing your hands, hand sanitize and making sure you social distance to prevent a spread of the virus. But how about strengthening your own body's SELF defense system for if you do manage to come in contact with the virus?
Individuals who are more likely to be severely affected by the coronavirus are those with underlying health conditions such as: diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. These conditions, as well as age, weaken the body's immune system. Fortunately - there are some natural and simple things you can do in order to boost your immune system and keep you healthy!
... but what is the Immune System?
As someone who has worked as a personal trainer, as well as in the healthcare system and with pharma companies; you would think I could easily answer this, but that is the beauty of your body. Your body is beautifully complex; and that include it's ability to fight off disease and attack. The great thing about the immune system is that you don't even notice it until it is there. However, if it stops working properly or can't fight particularly aggressive diseases - you will get sick. It is also important to note that the immune system is a system; it is not just your white blood cells.
Other than the nervous system, the immune system is the most complex in the body. The main parts of the immune system are:
White Blood Cells
Antibodies
Complement System
Lymphatic System
Spleen
Bone Marrow
Thymus
All of these elements need to work together harmoniously in order to fight off attacks to the body - yes, including COVID. Due to the fact that the system is so complex, there are a number of common disorders (for example, allergic reactions are an immune response).
Common Autoimmune Diseases / Immunodeficiency
There are also auto immune diseases where the system responds against normal cells in the body such as: MS, thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, lupus, arthritis, etc. Unfortunately, the medications for these diseases can cause an immunodeficiency - which is when your body's immune system is under active.
If you are one of these individuals that suffers from these conditions, then social distancing, staying in quarantine and taking extra precautions is especially imperative.
However if you are an otherwise healthy person, please feel free to supplement with the following Vitamins from FOODS in order to boost your immune system:
VITAMIN C: Oranges, grapefruit, tangerine, strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, kale and broccoli
VITAMIN B6: Chicken, cold water fish (salmon + tuna), green veggies, chickpeas
VITAMIN E: Powerful antioxidant ad found in nuts, seeds and spinach
Finally; a secret weapon to help boot immunity - GINGER SHOTS!!!
Due to the fact that many immune cells come from the spleen and the digestive system, having a healthy gut works wonders. Additionally, due to ginger's strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger may boost immune health.
Contrary to belief, there have been a few studies to show that ginger has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. Additional ingredients in ginger shots - such as honey and lemon - may also improve immune health.
Blood Sugar Control + Weight Loss
There have been several studies that note how ginger can reduce blood sugar levels and improve hemoglobin A1c; which makes it effective in assisting individuals whom are diabetic or pre-diabetic. Researchers have reported that based on cases in China and Europe that it appears that people who have diabetes have a higher rate of getting serious complications.
Dr. Wilburn Bolton, an Endocrinologist with USA Health, said, "For patients with uncontrolled diabetes, there is a background level of inflammation and immune dysfunction that might limit the bodies ability to respond to a new infection or delay the response to allow the infection to progress more quickly."
Myself and my husband actually make our own ginger shots at home, if you find that they are a little too spicy (personally I love the heat)... you can also follow up the shot with a spoon of honey.
The upcoming vlog / podcast that I will be posting tonight will be the #boostimmunity #gingershotchallenge and will have some more tips and tricks to how you can boost your immunity without breaking the bank - and without vaccines.
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