Boost Your Immune System with these 5 Habits

As stay home orders and cancelled events extend through the summer, as much as we’d like to move away from the conversation about COVID-19 as a society and as a medical group, we simply cannot. There is still as much unknown as known about this disease; but medical professionals around the globe have gathered enough detail to determine that boosting your immune system can help.

Eat Healthy

The internet abounds with jokes about the “Coronavirus 15” from everyone being stuck at home and eating. But making sure you get the proper nutrition does make a difference in your overall health. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, eat lean proteins, and avoid sugar.

Exercise and Sunshine

Exercise is a great way to minimize risk. It is turning out that Vitamin D may play a significant role in minimizing the symptoms in people who contract COVID-19. One of the best ways to make sure you have enough Vitamin D is to get outside. You need the sun to absorb the vitamin, which is stored in your body.

Lose Weight

The most recent reports on COVID-19 reveal that a disproportionate number of people with obesity had worse symptoms, spent more time in the ICU, and had a higher mortality rate. Even 20 minutes of vigorous exercise a day makes a difference.

Manage Stress

Lowering your stress level can improve your immune system. Given the amount of stress everyone is feeling with extended stay home orders and worry about contracting the disease, stress levels are at an all-time high. Exercise can help with stress, as can meditation and yoga.

Stay Connected to Others

Whether it’s a weekly phone call to your mom or Zoom calls with your work team, be sure to maintain your relationships with others. Call, play online games with friends, video chat with your grandkids, but stay in touch with friends and family.

At Park Avenue Medical Professionals, we strive to develop a long-term relationship with our patients by delivering the highest quality care – whether it’s a scheduled well visit or an urgent health concern that needs immediate attention. Learn more about our general medicine and urgent care services by contacting our office. You can also make an appointment by filling out this form. In order to get a prompt response for same-day urgent care appointments, please contact our office directly by calling 212.427.2000.