By Dr. Samuel McGinnis D.C.

During this time of uncertainty and fear surrounding the most recent viral outbreak, it is important to take the time to learn and understand how to maximize your family and loved ones’ immune systems during this time. Many news outlets and the CDC have focused on creating barriers between your body and the virus, such as wearing masks, not touching others, social distancing, and washing hands.  These are all fine practices at this time, but we must not forget our most potent weapon in this fight: our very own immune system, which is designed to protect us from viruses.

So, before you even get the coronavirus here are some steps that you can take to boost your immune system to vaporize this virus before it stands a chance.

Step 1) Eat nutrient-dense, antioxidant foods like organic blueberries, raspberries, spinach, sprouts, garlic, onions, ginger, parsley, cilantro, spirulina, celery juice, bone broth and fermented foods. Vitamin C has been shown to stop the replication cycle of viruses and boost white blood cells. (**Echinacea has been shown to strengthen the immune system.  ***Zinc Lozenges will destroy viruses in your throat.)

2) Get some sun!  *Sunlight has an anti-microbial effect on all viruses in general on the surface of your skin and clothing and the extra vitamin D you would be getting from the sun will also boost your immune system.

3) Drink hot beverages.  Viruses will die off around 100 degrees F, so drinking hot beverages will destroy viruses in your mouth and throat.  If this is done consistently, the virus might be destroyed before it even reaches the individual’s lungs which would prevent respiratory distress.

4) Reduce inflammatory foods in your diet.   Processed sugars, deep fried foods, and dairy (depending on the individual) can be inflammatory to the body and this affects the immune system in a negative way.

Making wise choices during this time is vital for success.  Humans are also social creatures, so give your friends calls or video chat.  Socializing though online forums and connecting with each other is vital for our mental health.  If you have any questions, or concerns regarding this article, please visit our Facebook page for more details or our website at www.mcginnischiropracticlifestyle.com.

 

*Predicted Inactivation of Viruses of Relevance to Biodefense by Solar RadiationJ Virol. 2005 Nov; 79(22)

**Echinacea; NCCIH Publication No.: D271, September 2016

***Zinc for the common cold—not if, but when; J Fam Pract. 2011 Nov; 60(11): 669–671.