Staying healthy in Corona isolation - Dr Zoe Williams says:
“There’s probably never been a time when it’s been so significant to think about your immune system and what you can do to boost your own immunity to stay healthy. What we know so far about this virus is that it’s the people who have a weakened immune system who are significantly more likely to require hospital attention or ventilation. People with good immune systems are more likely to able to fight it off.”
Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet
“Healthy immunity comes down mostly to general good health. From a nutrition point of view, having a really varied diet high in fruits and vegetables, wholegrains and if you’re not vegan or vegetarian, some healthy sources of Omega 3, such as oily fish and dairy, will help. A nutritious diet provides the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to make the cells and chemicals required to make the immune system work properly.”
Stay active
“Daily regular movement for 20 minutes a day helps boost immunity.”
Sleep well and manage stress
“Good quality sleep helps support healthy immunity. And another big one is stress. It can have a really negative impact on your immune system, and this is going to be a stressful time. Anything people can do to manage stress levels will positively impact immunity.”
Limit alcohol intake
“Having a glass of wine a few times a week isn’t likely to have a negative impact. But turning to drinking large amounts of alcohol will definitely impact your immune system.”
Stop smoking
“There has never been a better time to quit. A lot of us will get this virus. Most of us will be fine and will recover. But for those of us who do progress to getting the complications, having quit smoking a few weeks before, could make a difference.”
