5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Immune System Strong

Real talk. Fear around Covid -19 has spiked since the WHO declared it a pandemic. While we all take measures to decrease exposure and spread of the virus, let’s chat about a few simple ways to support the immune system and stay healthy. 

1. Wipe Down Your Phone 

We take our phones literally everywhere, and according to one study, they can carry 10x more bacteria than a toilet seat! Disinfecting it with alcohol or a disinfectant wipe at the end of the day is an easy fix and a good idea for our laptops and other electronics. 

2. Eat The Rainbow 

Fruits and veggies are chockfull of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that boost the immune system and general health. Smoothies are a great way to get more of these in. Try combining two handfuls of greens (spinach won’t overtake the flavour), a cup of berries or frozen banana and 2 tbsp of nut butter with a bit of milk or water. Greek yogurt, hemp seeds and protein powder are other add in’s that boost nutrition.

3. Take Your Vitamins 

A daily dose of vitamin D and zinc are two simple, relatively inexpensive supplements that are crucial for our immune system function, and are a part of many antiviral protocols.  

4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep 

Restful sleep is critical for healthy immune function, in fact, certain parts of the immune system are most active while we sleep. Having trouble falling sleeping?  Try cutting off caffeine after 2 pm and using blue light blockers on devices. Blue light from screens blocks the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep/ wake cycle. Apple products have a ‘night shift’ mode that does this and there are apps available for desktops. 

5. Take a Deep Breath

It’s easy to get caught up in stats, and the latest developments. But stress puts us in fight or flight mode and puts the immune system on the back burner. Staying calm prioritizes the immune system and helps it to function efficiently. Deep belly breathing, meditation, and hobbies that calm you are a few ways to stay grounded as we get through this.