There's no escaping the media these days. Whether you're receiving live updates on coronavirus from the news or getting educated on hand washing techniques over IG Stories, we know you're being well informed by a variety of mass media.
We figured we stick to what we know, bringing you delicious recipes for you to cook with your loved ones, beauty tips to add to your self-care routine, and wellness tips to enhance your health and well-being, as a light distraction can be helpful in these times of despair.
You've already heard about routine squirts of Purell and social distancing, so we thought to offer some additional, well-researched advice to keep your immune system strong and mighty:
Water: When you're consistently staying hydrated, you're supporting your body's ability to stave off infections. Be sure to get your water in and help your body naturally eliminate and flush out any toxins, bacteria or waste products floating around in your system. Drink the recommended 8 ounces per day, and 4 to 8 ounces per every 15 minutes of strenuous physical activity.
Get Enough Sleep: Boost immunity while you snooze? Yes please! When your head hits the pillow, your immune system begins to release powerful proteins called cytokines, which are necessary for your body to fight off infection. When you are sleep deprived, the amount of cytokines produced decreases. This means you're limiting the infection-fighting antibodies your body needs to help keep illness away.
Exercise Regularly: Exercising regularly boosts blood flow, which circulates white blood cells through the body. White blood cells are the cells related to the immune system that protect the body against disease. The immune system responds to exercise by producing more of these vital cells.
Stress Less: When we're stressed out, our bodies feel it. Stress causes the body to increase production of cortisol, known as the stress hormone. More cortisol means more inflammation in the body, as well as lymphocytes - the white blood cells that help fight off infection. It's called the silent killer for a reason: stress impacts our physical health just as much as our mental health.
Nourish Your Body: We're big fans of the perspective that "you are what you eat," so consuming vibrant, energizing foods is crucial in supporting your immune system and overall wellbeing. Take a look at the list below for 6 healing super foods that will boost your immunity from within:
