Your immune system is your body’s best weapon against harmful pathogens, like the COVID-19 virus. Without your immune system, you would be left vulnerable to infection by the same germs repeatedly.
Many products and methods claim to boost the immune system, but more research is needed to prove these claims. For example, ginger, garlic, and yogurt are commonly claimed to improve immune system function.
However, research does support that living a healthy lifestyle is good for every part of your body. Avoid COVID-19, the common cold, the flu, and any other cold-weather bugs that come around with these tips:
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Relax
Meditate, unwind, and destress every single day for your best physical and mental health. Stress is a leading cause of medical issues in the United States, so don’t skip this very important part of self-care.
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Get vaccinated
Vaccination against COVID-19 is the best way to end this pandemic for good. Keep everyone around you safe by getting all of the vaccinations you are eligible for, including COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia.
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Fruit and veggie-heavy diet
Eat a daily diet full of healthy, raw, unprocessed fruits and vegetables. Can’t get fresh produce where you live? Canned or jarred will do just fine instead.
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Exercise
Exercise is a proven mood and immunity booster. In fact, according to multiple studies, regular exercise boosts your mood just as much as prescription medications for those suffering from mild depression and anxiety. Aim for one hour of exercise, three times per week, to stay in your best shape through the cooler months.
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Hit your ideal weight
Your ideal weight is the point where the least amount of stress is on your body systems due to your size. Being overweight or underweight is undesirable and can cause medical issues.
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Don’t smoke or vape
Nicotine is addictive, and the other ingredients added to cigarettes and vape liquids are even worse. Do yourself a favor and skip the smoke breaks.
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Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all
Drinking in moderation is fine as long as you can avoid it turning the corner into binge drinking. Along with the poor decision making skills that heavy drinking can cause, significant damage to your liver, kidneys, and other organs can occur.
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Wash your hands
Hand washing is still one of the very best ways to fight germs and disease. Just wash with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, then dry with a clean towel or air dryer. If no soap or hot water is available, opt for a quality hand sanitizer until you can get to a sink. Luckily, hand sanitizer has been pretty easy to come by lately.
Get ready for bonfires and sweater weather with winter fast approaching. Just because the common cold and flu, and now COVID-19, tend to run rampant during the cooler months, doesn’t mean you can’t take measures to protect yourself and your loved ones to still enjoy the season. Call TLC Medical at (813) 874-1852 or contact us online to set up an annual physical examination, including any recommended vaccines, before winter begins. By being proactive about your health and medical care, you can stay ahead of the winter illnesses and enjoy the cool weather without problems.
