Staying healthy in lockdown: How can I boost my immune system while self-isolating?

Life is abnormal at the minute, and the lack of routine may be throwing your healthy habits out of the window. Sleeping patterns are all over the place, it’s difficult to exercise, and for some booze and junk food feels like an easy way to cheer themselves up. So how can you stay healthy in lockdown?

Approximately 70 percent of your entire immune system is based in your gut so is vital to keep healthy.

Gut microbiologist from OptiBac Probiotics Dr Kate Stephens explained: “Your gut is one of the first entry points for germs, so it’s really important to keep it protected with lots of good bacteria to help ward off harmful bugs.

“Stress, anxiety, lack of sleep and a bad diet can all create an imbalanced gut microbiome, which in turn may lower your immune system.

“So it’s important you look after your wellbeing during these uncertain months, to help fight nasty bugs and maintain a healthy gut.”

Loneliness and social isolation can have negative effects on your immune system, so it is important to do everything you can to keep your mood up during lockdown.
Dr Stephens reveals her top six tips to boost your immune system while self isolating.

READ MORE- Lockdown exercise: The eight exercises you can do at home

Reduce your alcohol intake

If you’re virtually meeting up with your mates with a bottle of beer in your hand instead of going to the pub, it might be time to reconsider.

Dr Stephens warned: “The occasional glass of red wine has been shown to have certain health benefits, but remember to drink in moderation as alcoholic drinks contain a lot of sugar.

“This can feed bad bacteria and make you feel even worse. If you do enjoy a couple of drinks, make sure you rehydrate with lots of water.”

Stay hydrated

Dr Stephens said staying hydrated is crucial in regulating our body temperature and maintaining many bodily functions.

She added: “Keeping hydrated is essential for all aspects of health, including supporting our bodily microbiomes and immune system, ensures that we are naturally flushing out any toxins or ‘bad bugs’ and helps our digestive system to work better.”

Diet and supplements

Dr Stephens recommends getting your fix of vitamin C and D.

She said: “Vitamins are important for immune function, especially vitamin C – find this in broccoli, cauliflower, kale, kiwi, orange juice, papaya, peppers, sweet potato, strawberries, and tomatoes, raw if possible.

“This vitamin is so important for immunity that many people take a supplement during the cold season.

“Vitamin D is another vitamin often deficient when we experience a lack of sunshine.

“Dietary sources include oily fish, eggs, and mushrooms, though again supplements are useful here.

“You might also wish to try some live cultures, which can be found in fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, kimchi or kefir, or in supplement form.”