HOW TO KICK START YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM…

With so many people having suffered from Covid-19 it is estimated that over half will suffer from Long-Covid. The NHS say the symptoms are –

If you have had coronavirus, you may find that you have continuing symptoms that last for weeks or months. These can include:

breathlessness
extreme tiredness (fatigue)
problems with memory and concentration (known as ‘brain fog’)
a cough that’s been ongoing since you’ve had COVID-19.

Other common Long COVID symptoms can include:

difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
dizziness
pins and needles
joint pain
chest pain or tightness; heart palpitations (these may need urgently investigating, so it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible)
depression and anxiety
tinnitus, earaches
feeling sick, diarrhoea, stomach aches, loss of appetite
a high temperature, cough, headaches, sore throat, changes to sense of smell or taste
rashes

Long COVID can affect your whole body and you may experience lots of different symptoms, either at once or at different times. If you’re experiencing lots of different symptoms, the first thing you should do is speak to your GP. They will first try to find out if there are any other possible causes of your symptoms.

According to UK Research and Innovation the immune response associated with COVID-19 is complex. Most people who are infected mount a successful anti-viral response, which results in few, if any, symptoms.

In a minority of patients, however, there is evidence that the immune system overreacts. This leads to a flood of immune cells and to chronic inflammation and damage to multiple organs. Some people have even voiced concerns over whether their immune systems are being challenged, given that the general public is no longer physically mixing.

However there are things you can do to help build up your immune system again after any illness. Having a healthy immune system is essential for your body to fight off infection.

There is no magical immune system booster that will bolster your defences overnight, but there are things you can do to protect your immune cells, potentially lowering your susceptibility to infection.

Vitamin D is an important player in your body’s immune system, helping modulate both your innate and adaptive immune responses.

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do to look after your body. Focus on whole foods, eating from all the key food groups, and avoid overly salty, fatty, sugary or processed foods.

Brightly coloured foods often contain vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant. Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and squash are all high in this nutrient.

Get fit by doing regular exercise even if it’s just a daily walk as this can strengthen your immune system. Get plenty of sleep and look after your gut system are also a great way to keep your immune system healthy and finally keep a good hygiene.

Source : NHS, BMI, UK Research & Innovation