COVID: Supplements, the Immune System, and Preventative Care

In the midst of a viral pandemic, with orders to “shelter at home” in effect, parents may be wondering what else can be done to protect the health of their families. Unprecedented circumstances often lead to feelings of a loss of control, which can sometimes generate a sense of fear, and even sadness. Minimizing unnecessary travel and condensing trips to the grocery store or pharmacy is a vital part of slowing the spread of illness, however, there are also ways to take care of yourself and your children that can improve the function of the innate immune system, lessen stress, and increase the chances of staying safe and healthy. The Basics: Sleep One of the most important things that anyone can do for their health is to get enough rest. The body does the vast majority of its repair work during sleep, so regularly getting an adequate night’s rest is vital for the body to keep its immune system working at its best. This is especially true in times of excess stress. Financial, environmental and circumstantial stress all simultaneously increase stress-related hormones in the body and lower its immune factors. A study done with medical students during cold and flu season tested their blood before and after final exams and found that blood samples taken just before their tests had the highest rate of stress hormones and the lowest number of immune cells. Students were most likely to get sick when stress was at its peak. Stress Relief It may feel difficult to remain calm durin...
Source: Conversations with Dr Greene - Category: Child Development Authors: Tags: Dr. Greene's Blog Air Quality COVID COVID-19 Immunity Vitamins & Supplements Zinc Source Type: blogs