With all the concern about COVID-19, the flu and other viral infections, it may be a good idea to look at how to fight this virus naturally.
The common misconception is that there are precautions we can take to strengthen or boost our immune system.
“I think there is no such thing that I would say that is out there that would boost your immune system,” said Bay Area Hospital Pulmonary and Critical Care Dr. Humayun Anjum.
Medical professionals say don’t waste your money stocking up on supplements.
“The idea that it can support and boost immunity is very controversial and probably scientifically does not make sense,” said Anjum.
We should think of it more as supporting our immune system rather than boosting it.
“The idea is these are things that would lead you to live a healthy life. Once again, we think once you exercise, once you eat a healthy diet, that causes the circulation to go up. Once the circulation goes up, the cells, our immune cells, they move more freely; they move to the places that are more needed. So the idea to boost immunity with means that are not natural is not recommended at all,” said Anjum.
Another action to keep in mind is getting adequate sleep, anywhere from six to eight hours to keep your body’s defenses up to par.
With all of that being said, doctors say the best way to avoid getting sick during this pandemic is washing your hands and social distancing.
Improve your health while at home:
- Get plenty of sleep at night
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Try to managing stress with a routine or hobby