What can you do to increase your resistance?
Make sure your immune response is effective. With a healthy lifestyle, supplemented with some substances from nature that give our immune system a boost in the right direction, our bodies are more resistant to viral infections, such as the Coronavirus. What can you deploy?
Vitamins, minerals and fatty acids for optimal immune response
The intake of sufficient vitamin C is very important. A vitamin C deficiency can lead to an inadequately functioning immune system. Zinc is also very important in regulating the immune response. In addition, sufficient vitamin D and the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are necessary for timely triggering of the immune response so that it does not cause unnecessary damage.
Sufficient intake of fatty fish, seafood or algae and possible supplementation with supplements is recommended. We make vitamin D under the influence of exposure to sunlight on our skin. At this time of year in Europe, it is impossible to make enough vitamin D through this route. Supplementation of vitamin D is thus highly recommended.
Optimal action of cortisol
Cortisol also plays an important role in the immune response and, along with vitamin D and the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, ensures the timely termination of the inflammatory response. The body’s own cortisol production and sensitivity to cortisol, and thus its efficacy, can be improved through some simple lifestyle tips:
- Provide plenty of stress-reducing activities such as exercise, sauna, massage, meditation and breathing exercises that bring relaxation;
- Take regular cold showers or go swimming in open water. An intense cold stimulus increases cortisol sensitivity;
- Eat a variety of foods and enough fiber to optimize gut flora (or use pre- and probiotics): a healthy gut flora improves the efficacy of cortisol.
In conclusion
The Coronavirus is keeping us quite busy. You can take measures yourself to better protect your body from infection and recover if you do get infected unexpectedly. Deal with it, and that will also help contain further spread. Want personalized advice on how to increase your health and resistance? Make an appointment with one of our practices!
