As we slowly drift back into fall, some worries occupy our minds. Kids are going back to school, daily schedules are changing, and the awful flu season is creeping in. With both COVID-19 at its (potential), worst since the start of the pandemic and the annual flu season combined, a majority of what the next few months will bring for us is unknown. While vaccines are not 100% dependable or available for everyone, we still need to do everything we can to keep us (and those around us) as healthy as possible. Thus, maintaining any actions relating to health can be quite beneficial because no one enjoys being sick. So here are a few ways we can stay healthy without having to disrupt our day.
Getting Enough Sleep
As an adult, between work and the kids, getting enough sleep at night is often seen as unimportant these days. The CDC claims that one-third of the U.S. population is not getting enough sleep and that a minimum of seven hours are needed every night for better health. Insufficient sleep can cause short-term and long-term effects, such as memory problems, moodiness, car accidents, and even mistakes in the workplace. If we develop a viral infection, those cells will activate integrin (a sticky type of protein) to attach and kill the infected cells. However, we need to get an adequate amount of sleep for this to occur. Director of the Sleep Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of California Davis Kimberley Hardin, MD, leaves us all with a reminder that “sleep should leave you feeling refreshed, not groggy and struggling.”
Nutrition and Hydration
Growing up, we learned the importance of taking our vitamins to stay healthy, and for a good reason, too. Consuming a nutrient-dense diet and staying hydrated goes a long way in preventing (or fighting) a virus. Here are some of the main nutrients to focus on when boosting the immune system:
- Proteins: Give us energy and help us feel full longer
- Fibers: Contribute to the feeling of fullness, food digestion, and help the body absorb nutrients
- Healthy Fats: Meet the daily calorie intake easier (great for frontline workers!)
- Vitamins and Minerals: Build a healthy immune system
Our immune system is highly dependent on the nutrients in our bloodstream and with the bloodstream mostly made of water, it makes it even more crucial to stay hydrated. Just as water flushes out toxins in our bodies every day, water functions the same during a virus. In addition, drinking alcohol and coffee and working out can cause us to lose additional water from our bodies. If we do these dehydrating activities, we will need an extra boost to maintain their electrolyte levels to sustain hydration each day. Thus, DrinkLyte is a multi-functional product that will help with rehydrating, being IV-effective since it employs the Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). The ORS is used frequently in cases with diseases that cause dehydration and loss of electrolytes. This electrolyte hydration drink mix can be consumed whenever (drinking or not). Ultimately, both nutrition and hydration help with feeling full, hydrating, and staying energized throughout the day; therefore, it’s important to add both health factors for a healthy lifestyle and immune system.
Social Drinking boosts Immune System
Whether we feel it mentally, physically, or emotionally, stress can be extremely damaging to the body. Director of the Anxiety Disorders Center at Hartford Hospital’s Institute of Living David Tolin, Ph.D., said that “excess levels of stress produce hormonal changes that lower the body’s resistance to colds and other infections.” Luckily, there are a few ways to de-stress while boosting our immune system. For instance, socializing with friends is very important for our mental health. Not only will taking time out of our busy schedules to catch up with a friend improve our mental status, but this will also boost our immune system. Never feel guilty for taking those breaks when needed. Everyone gets burnt out now and then. Go for a run, have dinner and drinks with a friend, or take a trip to the salon. It will save your health.
Author : Jennifer Dutton, Blog Writer, DrinkLyte Co. "Helping Grow CPG Brands Beyond Their Potential"