Corona virus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new virus. The disease causes respiratory illness (like the flu) with symptoms such as a cough, fever, and in more severe cases, difficulty breathing. Corona virus disease spreads primarily through contact with an infected person when they cough or sneeze. It also spreads when a person touches a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
How to boost your immunity
No proper cure or prevention has yet been invented for protecting yourself from catching the virus, but still you can take some precautions to stronger your immunity system to fight against COVID-19. Some basic measures to prevent yourself from Corona Virus are sanitizing/ washing your hands, staying inside your home, wearing a mask if you go out, stay 2 meter apart from anyone when you’re in a public place, etc.
Food and Diet
Many researchers have claimed that some vitamins and minerals can help to boost our immunity system to help in preventing the COVID-19 virus. The following food items can be consumed to help in boosting your immunity system.
1. Chickpeas: It has been found that chickpeas contain a lot of protein which is an essential nutrient made of amino acids that help grow and repair the body’s tissues. Chickpeas also contain zinc which helps the immune system in controlling and regulating immune responses.
2. Garlic: Garlic has many health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and reducing risk of heart diseases. Garlic contains heavy concentration of sulphur-containing compounds, which can help fight off some infections. Garlic has been used to help ward off the common cold as well.
3. Mushrooms: Mushroom has been found to contain Vitamin-D in good quantity which can help to enhance the absorption of calcium, which is good for bone health and helps in increasing immunity. Mushrooms can be consumed as a dry snack or a proper main course dish.
4. Yogurt: Yogurt is said to be a great source of pro-biotics, which are the good bacteria that can help promote a healthy gut and immune system. The probiotics are found to be effective for fighting the common cold and respiratory infections. Plain yogurt should be preferred rather than the ones with artificial sweeteners (i.e. flavored yogurts).
5. Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits are considered to be the best sources of Vitamin C which helps boost our immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells in our bodies, which in turn are, essential in warding off any foreign danger to our bodies.
All citrus fruit such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, oranges, etc. are considered to be good sources of the vitamin.
6. Turmeric: In India, turmeric has been a vital spice since the beginning and is added to almost all the foods and curries. The spice is used in alternative medicines, for anti- inflammatory issues, to stop bleeding, and a lot more. Also, there are bright pigment and hues present in turmeric which help to provide us with ways to boost our immune systems.
7. Papaya: Papaya is loaded with vitamin C. It has many other essential nutrients that help boost the strength of your immune systems. It can be consumed in the form of milkshakes, salads, or just as a plain fruit.
Avoid smoking or drinking
Smoking (shisha or cigarettes) or drinking alcohol weaken your immunity system hence increasing the chances of catching the COVID-19 virus. People usually resort to alcohol or cigarettes to destress themselves, which is nothing but just inviting the virus and other health related problems. Instead one should try meditation and mindfulness exercises to cope up with the same.
Proper Sleep
Studies have shown a link between sleep and immunity system. For adults, the prescribed duration is 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted continuous sleep. Avoiding caffeine products in the evening or at night can help you sleep better. Lesser sleep usually leaves you tired. Lack of sleep also affects the action of the vaccines being consumed.
