7 Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Family from COVID-19

3 min read
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As you all may know, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been spreading rapidly and has made its way to North America.  It doesn't matter what we call it, #coronavirus, #influenza, #handfootmouth, the concern of viral infections has literally gone VIRAL. 

We've all been told there's not a lot we can do about viral infections….but as Naturopathic Doctors - we believe a preventative approach is the most effective to stay healthy and safe!

And because our patients are our top priority - we’ve put together the following 7 tips to help protect yourself and your family from the spread of the virus: 

  1. Wash your hands with soap and water whenever an opportunity presents, especially when entering your home.  Frequently sanitize door handles, telephones, TV remotes, light switches, and sink faucets.

  2. Avoid travelling outside of Ontario if possible and keep a 1m distance between anyone coughing or sneezing.

  3. If you or a family member are feeling ill with a cough and/or fever, please stay home from work/school and see a health care practitioner.

  4. Offer a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables everyday. This will not only inspire the kids to "eat the rainbow", but also ensure that they get a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals they need to build a strong immune system.

  5. Use food as medicine! Some of our favourite foods that kill germs are garlic, onions, honey. Eat these as often as you can!

  6. Hydrate. Aim for 1/2 body weight in ounces per day to keep our systems flowing smoothly. When our body is hydrated, it's easier for our immune systems to flush unwanted things out and circulate the good army around to where it is needed.

  7. Prioritize sleep. All of our body systems regenerate and recover when we are at rest. It is the only time when our immune systems have time to completely repair, recover and recharge from the onslaught of the day.  

From daycare to March break travels, there are plenty of reasons to give the immune system a little extra support. Continue your immune boosting regime to keep your body in tip top shape to fight any illness. If you don’t currently have a plan, visit one of our NDs to see what can be done to protect you.

This post was written by wellbe naturopathic doctors Janice Wu, ND and Mallory Reinthaler, ND