Boost your immune system

TIPS TO BOOST YOUR Immunity

Like us, you’re probably looking for ways to stay as healthy and happy as possible while stuck inside. Read on for simple ways to boost your immunity during this critical time.

Be good to your gut

Did you know that 80 per cent of your immune system resides in your gut? Keep yours as healthy as possible by fuelling your body with wholesome foods that promote a balance of good and bad bacteria – think anything fermented (yogurt, kimchi, kefir, miso), vegetables like peas and brussels sprouts (full of fibre) and almonds (good probiotic properties).

Engage in moderate exercise While prolonged, intense exercise can suppress your immune system, moderate activity can give it a boost, helping reduce inflammation and activating cell rejuvenation. Adults should aim for at least three hours a week of brisk walking, jogging, swimming or cycling.

Sleep soundly

Getting adequate rest can help strengthen your natural immune system, with many experts recommending at least seven hours a night for adults, eight to 10 hours for teens, and up to 14 hours for younger children. To get this, COMO Hotels & Resorts’ sleep specialists suggest: • Following the sun (reboot your body’s circadian rhythm by rising with the sun and getting real rays during the day). • Looking after your heart (reduce anxiety as much as possible in the lead-up to bed time). • Eating three to four hours before lights out (and avoiding alcohol). • Keeping your bedroom dark and cool (15 – 20 degrees Celsius is optimal). • Limiting screen time before bed (the blue light from phones may disrupt your wake-sleep cycle).

Stay hydrated Dehydration can have a number of impacts on your health, from headaches to hindering your mood, performance, digestion and heart function. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to take a sip of water – authorities recommend at least two litres a day; more if you work outside or live in a hot climate.

Make a tonic Concoct a healing elixir. Known as jamu in Indonesian, this all-natural, anti-inflammatory remedy is great for all manner of ailments. Passed down by generations, the recipe combines fresh turmeric, ginger, honey, tamarind and lemon, topped up with warm water.

Stock your pantry with...

Tips from nutritionist, Naomi Teal of Refuel Concept.

GINGER: Ginger has been used for thousands of years as natural remedy, for good reason. The antiinflammatory root is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and is especially good at halting the growth of bad bacteria.

GARLIC: Garlic is packed with anti-microbial properties – kicking unproductive gut bacteria to the curb. Consume raw, organic garlic, as supplements can be less effective and also contain bulking agents.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: Make sure your vinegar is organic and contains the ‘mother’ – this means it’s unpasteurised and contains the beneficial bacteria and probiotics that can have a positive impact on our gut health. It also has antibacterial properties that can fight off the pathogens wreaking havoc in your body.