How do you arm your immune system against Corona?
The world as we know it has changed radically in just a few weeks. Due to this crisis, we have to reshape our daily lives very differently. Combine these intense changes with a constant stream of negative news, and it is not surprising that people are experiencing more stress and gloom than usual during this period. A situation that, due to remaining inactive in quarantine, will also have a negative impact on our physical resilience.
Three experts – Professor Eric van Gorp (virologist Erasmus MC), Professor Erik Scherder (neuropsychologist VU) and cardiologist Leonard Hofstra (Amsterdam UMC), joined forces last week The Telegraaf once again behind a short but clear list that also keeps your immune system in shape;
1. Don't smoke!
Of course, smoking relaxes, and in that sense is a factor that can support you in your feelings of stress. But it is also a major strain on your immune system. A great motivation to quit.
2. Eat healthy
Research shows that eating flavonoid-rich power supply causes an increase in interferon, an antiviral substance. Flavonoids are found in dark chocolate (cocoa), (green) tea, blueberries and red berries, raspberries, blackberries, citrus fruits, and green leafy vegetables. Therefore, eat these products in particular.
3. Exercise or play sports
Exercise causes the release of white blood cells, which are needed to neutralize external invaders.
→ Therefore, exercise or move at the very least three times a week; even better, half an hour a day.
4. Get enough sleep
Too little sleep makes you more susceptible to infections. Therefore, ensure you get enough sleep, at least eight hours.
5. Avoid stress
Perhaps a bit difficult right now, given the coronavirus threat. But chronic stress reduces the effectiveness of your immune system. Follow the news a maximum of twice a day and focus on positive topics in between. The three medical scientists then emphasize that everything revolves around a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle strengthens the immune system.
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Triggered by the current situation, HealthcoachyPlus has put together the Online Lifestyle Battle.
We are going to guide you completely ONLINE for the next 10 weeks and help you achieve your goals!
The Online Lifestyle Battle consists of:
• Various (live) online events every week group training, which you can participate in from home and watch back later if desired.
• Various extra HOME workouts (for goals such as: Get Fit – Lose Weight and Get Ready) that we make available for you in our mobile app and that you can schedule yourself.
• Various extra outdoor workouts, such as walking, cycling, running, etc.
• EXTRA: Weekly live online lecture / workshop on various lifestyle topics, such as stress, sleep, nutrition, etc. These can also be watched back at any time.
• A weekly practical assignment aimed at optimizing your lifestyle under current circumstances.
• Opportunity to ask questions about all sections. Live or afterwards.
YOU'RE JOINING IN TOO, AREN'T YOU?
Just make sure to sign up for our private Facebook HealthCoachPlus Online group.We will keep you updated on the program items daily there. Because doing nothing is actually asking for more problems, says Erik Schrerder. Prefer not to use Facebook? Then sign up via the form below. Costs: €9.95 p/w for non-members
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