COVID-19 has hit the world hard, however, it has been an especially big threat to those who are immunocompromised. Immunocompromised individuals have a deficient immune system that is unable to efficiently combat foreign or malicious substances entering the body. Those with IBD or ulcerative colitis are considered immunocompromised due to the increased immune activity in their intestines. While their immune system is not deficient, ulcerative colitis treatment involves medications that actually lower immune system activity. Additionally, those with gastrointestinal issues are more likely to be malnourished, missing out on important vitamins and minerals that help strengthen the immune system. Below are some ways to improve your immune system and protect yourself against COVID-19 or other viruses.
The COVID vaccine is the most reliable and science-based defense against the COVID-19 virus. The mRNA vaccine sends a message to your body’s cells to combat the virus and reduce the risk of infection and transmission.
While none of the vaccines offer 100% protection, they do reduce the vulnerability of the population to being hospitalized.
For those who have already been fully vaccinated, public health officials are now recommending a third booster shot eight months after your second shot. This has been especially suggested for those who are immunocompromised, including those with IBD and ulcerative colitis. Those who are considered immunocompromised are now recommended by the FDA and eligible to receive the booster shot.
READ: How To Manage Ulcerative Colitis
Protectors of your immune system can be found in nature or a small capsule even! The most common supplements used to boost the immune system are vitamin C, E, A, D, iron, and zinc. All of these supplements are essential in the proper functioning of the immune system. The “alphabet” vitamins fight infections and fortify the immune system.
Iron helps with the movement of red blood cells which supports immunity. Iron is mostly found in red meats, chickpeas, poultry, and leafy greens.
Finally, zinc is necessary for the creation of new immune cells. You can get zinc by consuming lean meats, baked beans, and chickpeas.
Stress is inevitable in life, so managing stress is an important skill to develop to be as healthy as possible. High levels of stress weaken the immune systems by making the body work harder than it needs to and keeping it far from homeostasis.
During these stressful times, tune into your
self-care and find a routine that works for you. Are you an avid reader? Set aside time to escape into a good book.
Find new recipes to try and spend some time in the kitchen whipping up a new masterpiece.
Get outside and breathe in nature during a walk.
Limiting stress can also help your digestive system and symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases.
READ: 5 Healthy Recipes That Take The Pain Out Of Ulcerative Colitis
Sleep is the time for your body to reset and recharge after working all day to keep you running. For adults, seven to nine hours is recommended each night to maintain a healthy sleep schedule.
Just like stress, sleep deprivation affects your bodily functions and makes your body go into overdrive. Just like any machine, our bodies cannot sustainably be on overdrive and still function at its best every day. Have a target wake-up time and adjust your evening schedule to make sure you can get a full seven to nine hours each night.
The most simple way to protect yourself is by maintaining good hygiene. Keep wearing masks out in public, especially in crowded spaces. Sanitize surfaces and commonly touched areas – including your phone, watch, earbuds, counters, keyboards, mice, etc. Anything that is touched throughout the day should be sanitized regularly, especially if you live with other people.
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