Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people stay at home and engage in less social contact and physical activities, particularly seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those 65 and older are at a greater risk of COVID-19.
The protocol of staying at home might have an adverse effect on your physical and emotional well-being. So, it is essential to take care of your health and avoid illnesses as simple as the flu or a regular cold, which can worsen and lead to problems.
As a result, it is important to make healthy choices to boost your immune system and minimize your risk of sickness. Follow these eight tips to stay healthy year-round.
8 Tips to Live Well Year-Round
Eat Right
Diets high in vegetables, fruits, and lean meats help strengthen your immune system and protect you from dangerous germs and viruses that cause sickness. Antioxidants can be found in vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants protect your cells from harm and keep your body healthy.
Limit your intake of sugary and fatty meals, which can cause inflammation in the body and weaken your immune system. Reduce your alcohol consumption as well. Ask your doctor about the safe amount of alcohol to consume each day or week.
Get Active
Physical activity strengthens the immune system. The more you exercise, the better your body can combat inflammation and illnesses. It is not necessary to engage in rigorous activities. Low-impact workouts are also beneficial.
Consider employing a personal trainer who has CEUs or engaging in everyday activities such as walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or low-impact aerobics. You can also strengthen your muscles by lifting weights or doing yoga. Modify your workout program to see what works best for you.
Take Vitamin Supplements
Some supplements might help maintain a healthy immune system. Always consult your doctor before taking a supplement, especially if you are on a prescription drug. Calcium, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 are among the vitamins they may suggest. To strengthen your immune system, take supplements or multivitamins as recommended.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Another great approach to keep healthy all year is to wash your hands often. Viruses may live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. You’ll get sick if you make contact with a virus-infected surface, contaminate your hands, and touch your body or face.
Wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Touching your nose, face, or mouth with your hands is not recommended. When you are unable to wash your hands, use hand sanitizer to protect yourself. Disinfect surfaces in your home and office regularly as well.
Learn How to Deal with Stress
Chronic stress causes your body to produce more cortisol, the stress hormone. Too much cortisol can affect your body’s functions, particularly your immune system.
You can reduce stress through increasing physical exercise, getting enough sleep, setting acceptable goals for yourself, and exploring relaxing, pleasant hobbies.
Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep not only reduces stress but also allows your body to heal itself. As a result, obtaining enough sleep might result in a stronger immune system, making it simpler for your body to fight infections.
Rest and sleep are also important as you age since it helps with memory and focus. Aim for a minimum of seven and a half to nine hours of sleep every night.
If you are having difficulty sleeping, consult your doctor to determine the underlying problem. Insomnia may be caused by inactivity during the day as well as consuming too much coffee. It might also be a symptom of a medical issue such as restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea.
Avoid Contact with Sick People
Another approach to protecting yourself all year is to avoid being near to ill individuals. However, if there is a flu outbreak in your area, minimize contact with individuals who aren’t feeling well and stay away from busy places until circumstances improve.
If you care for someone who has the flu, use gloves, and a face mask and washes your hands often.
If you care for someone, you must take social distancing, use gloves, and a face mask, and wash hands often. When you’re out in public, keep at least six feet between yourself and others. And only go out when essential.
Schedule an Annual Physical Exam
An annual checkup might also help you stay healthy. If you have any worries regarding your health, always see your doctor.
High blood pressure and diabetes are two examples of conditions that can go undetected. Your doctor will be able to diagnose any issues that arise as a result of regular physical examinations. Getting therapy as soon as possible may help you avoid long-term problems.
