Preventative measures, immune boosters and more info on how to cope during a pandemic
COVID-19, CORONAVIRUS seems to be all the world can think about right now , and with good reason. Nation-wide lock-downs, travel bans and other restrictions have been put in place to contain the spread of the virus.
Under the constant bombardment of news alerts you may be feeling overwhelmed and concerned. To help ease your mind, we’ve come up with a nifty list to keep you and your family both healthy and occupied during the lock-down:
Boost your immune system
Fortify you immune system by eating well and keeping active. An inactive body filled up on processed foods can lead to a weakened immune system that won’t be able to fight off infections and other pathogens. Here are some excellent immune boosters:
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Garlic: garlic contains an organic compound called ‘allicin’ which contains immune enhancing, antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
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Ginger: Got a scratchy throat? Ginger to the rescue! Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties. A dose of ginger added to a mug of hot water and raw honey (steep for a few min) should assist in relieving your sore throat.
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Flax seeds: Flax seeds contain iron and Omega 3 that assist to counteract the effects of pathogens entering the body as well as to provide the immune system with oxygen.
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Chia seeds: Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help to boost the immune system. Antioxidants also help to protect the body’s cells and tissues that are susceptible to free radical damage.
Be responsible
WHO and the South African Department of Health have communicated preventative measures that each civilian should be taking in order to prevent the spread of the virus:
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Wash your hands: Wash hands frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 sec.
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Do not touch your face : Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes as the surface of your hands may be contaminated with germs and other pathogens.
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Social distancing: Stand at least one meter away from the next person when in public; avoid large groups of people to avoid contracting or spreading the virus.
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Know your symptoms: A fever, shortness of breath, coughing and body aches are symptoms that need to be communicated to your health care practitioner.
Hobbies
Going into lock-down mode shouldn’t mean succumbing to boredom. There are various activities and hobbies you can do to keep you and your family occupied:
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Cooking: visit our blog for yummy ,wholefood recipes
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Reading: download e-books or catch up on books you haven’t completed reading
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Crossword puzzles: the Apple App Store and Google Play Store have great crossword puzzle apps that’ll keep you and your kids entertained for hours
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Start a blog: writing about and sharing an unfamiliar experience may help to alleviate the stress of current events
We encourage each person to take responsibility of their actions during this lock-down. Please stay in-doors, wash your hands regularly and monitor any unusual symptoms. Stay healthy and stay safe!
Sources:
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COVID-19 South African Online Portal: sacoronavirus.co.za/
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World Health Organization: www.who.int/
