The Corona virus has infected hundreds of thousands of people around the world. In Indonesia alone, more than 1,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19. Strengthening the body's immune system is one way that can be done to ward off the transmission of this virus. Not only the Corona virus, a strong immune system can also protect the body from various other diseases.
Novel coronavirus 2019 (2019-nCoV) or better known as the Corona virus is a virus that can cause respiratory system disorders, acute pneumonia (lung infection), and kidney failure. WHO officially gave the name COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) for this Corona virus.
If you experience symptoms of Corona virus infection and require a COVID-19 examination, click the link below so you can be directed to the nearest health facility:
- Rapid Test Antibodies
- Antigen Swab (Rapid Test Antigen)
- PCR
Until now, there is no vaccine available that can prevent infection with the Corona virus or COVID-19. This is what causes the Indonesian Ministry of Health to appeal to the Indonesian people to always live a clean (hygienic) life and always maintain their immune system.
How to Strengthen the Immune System to Prevent Corona Virus
Basically, the human body has an immune system to fight viruses and bacteria that cause disease. However, there are things that can weaken a person's immune system or immune system, including aging, malnutrition, disease, and even certain medications. Therefore, the function of the immune system needs to be maintained so that the immune system is strong.
Here are natural ways you can do to keep your immune system or immune system strong:
1. Eat nutritious food
Consumption of foods rich in antioxidants, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs, can help the body fight free radicals. If there are lots of free radicals in your body, the work of the immune system can be disrupted and you become more susceptible to Corona virus infection.
In addition, to maintain the body's immunity, it is also necessary to have adequate nutrition. Increase consumption of lean meats, nuts, and seeds so that your immune system is strong. Onions and ginger are also good for consumption because they are believed to help the body fight infection and reduce inflammation.
2. Exercise regularly
Exercise has also been shown to increase endurance and reduce inflammation. However, you need to remember, exercise that is done regularly has a better effect on the immune system than exercise that is only occasionally. So, make time to exercise at least 30 minutes every day.
3. Manage stress well
Prolonged stress can increase the production of the hormone cortisol. High levels of the hormone cortisol can interfere with the work of the immune system in fighting infection. Therefore, try to manage stress well so that your immune system is maintained and strong against Corona virus infection.
Stress can be controlled with simple things, for example by getting enough sleep every day. You can also do fun things to relax your body and mind, such as hanging out with friends, going on an excursion, doing your hobby, or meditating.
4. Get enough rest
As simple as it sounds, lack of sleep, whether due to COVID-19 or other conditions, has been shown to have a negative impact on health. One of them is a decrease in the body's resistance, so that various diseases can more easily attack.
Adequate sleep can make your body stronger against exposure to the Corona virus. Adults need about 7–8 hours of sleep per day, while children need 10 hours or more.
5. Taking immune-supporting supplements
To prevent infection with the Corona virus, you can also consider taking supplements that can strengthen your immune system. The content of vitamins and minerals in supplements, such as vitamin C (sodium ascorbate), vitamin B3 (nicotinamide), vitamin B5 (dexpanthenol), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hcl), vitamin E (alpha tocopheryl), zinc picolinate, and sodium selenite, can improve the performance of the immune system in fighting infections caused by viruses and bacteria, including Corona virus infection. On the other hand, vitamins B3, B5, and B6 can repair body cells damaged by illness.
In addition, you can also choose supplements that contain plant extracts, for example Echinacea purpurea and Black Elderberry. The two herbal plants are believed to be able to improve the performance of the immune system in fighting infections caused by viruses and bacteria, including Corona virus infection.
In addition to strengthening your immune system in the various ways above, you also need to adopt other healthy lifestyles, such as quitting smoking, reducing drinking alcohol, not having risky sex, and drinking enough water.
In addition to strengthening the body's resistance in the various ways above, you also need to make efforts to prevent the transmission of the Corona virus, namely:
- Always wear a mask when traveling or interacting with other people
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water, or with hand sanitizer
- Do not touch your face, nose and eyes with dirty or unwashed hands
- Avoid crowds and keep your distance or physical distancing
If you have certain medical conditions that make you susceptible to infection, or if you have to travel to a place that is prone to Corona virus infection, don't hesitate to ask your doctor about things you need to do to avoid this infection.
Come on, keep your immune system strong by exercising regularly, managing stress well, getting enough rest, and eating nutritious food! If necessary, take supplements to support the immune system.
