With everything going on during this unprecedented time, our team at Snow Family Dentistry put a list together of things you can do to boost your immunity.
Here are preventive measures you can take to optimize your body’s defense against infection and illness.
Consume Good Bacteria
Bacteria are everywhere: on our skin, hair and nails, and also inside our body. In our intestines, these organisms are called the gut microbiome. We don’t notice they’re there until they are changed or imbalances in the types due to illness or a condition give us symptoms such as gas or diarrhea.
Some research supports the use of prebiotics and probiotics to promote gut health by creating a healthier balance of bacteria type in your gut microbiome.
Eat plant-based foods and whole grains to get prebiotics. Prebiotics help create a healthy environment in the gut for the “good” bacteria to flourish, Fermented foods including yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha and kimchi are good sources of probiotics.
Drink in Moderation
Drinking in moderation is okay, but consuming alcohol in excess can lead to the deterioration of your immune system. There’s evidence from both human and animal research that overconsumption of alcohol decreases immune reactivity, reducing the body’s ability to fight infection.
Exercise
Current guidelines advise Americans do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week. Research shows the immune system benefits from engaging in regular physical activity.
This is because exercise boosts the production of microphages, cells that attack the bacteria that can trigger some of the upper respiratory tract infections we get. And physical activity increases the circulation of many cells in our body that help fend off viruses and harmful bacteria.
Get Enough Sleep
A lack of sleep is frequently the culprit when people find that they’re getting sick more often or unable to fend off ailments. Seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended to restore your body fully.
Wash Your Hands
People with contaminated hands can infect themselves and other, leading to respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses. At Snow Family Dentistry, we recommend washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds.
You should wash your hands:
- Before and after handling or eating food.
- After sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose.
- After shaking hands with another person.
- After using the bathroom.
- After touching an animal or handling animal waste.
- After using public transportation.
- After handling garbage.
- After treating a sick person.
Why Choose Snow Family Dentistry
From our family to yours, we hope you stay and healthy during this pandemic. If you have a dental emergency or need a check up, please click here to contact us today.
