Read our tips to maintaining a healthy immune system.
Patient Care is the core value that motivates Snore MD during this difficult challenge of responding to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We recognize the gravity of the situation and are taking measures to ensure our patients, team, and community stay as safe and healthy as possible.
Your health is paramount to us which is why we’ve compiled 5 tips to help keep your immune system in fighting shape:
1. If You Have Sleep Apnea, Wear Your CPAP
Much like brushing your teeth, CPAP is only effective at minimizing long-term health complications when it is worn regularly. People who suffer from untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea are at a significantly increased risk of developing strokes, heart attacks, obesity, and diabetes. By wearing CPAP every night, your body is able to breathe and sleep easier which boosts immune response and improves your ability to fight off illness.
2. Sleep Well
Getting enough sleep is something many people struggle with. The National Sleep Foundation recommends getting between 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night in order to maximize immune function. To help achieve this, practice good sleep hygiene, stick to a regular sleep schedule, and if you are concerned with your sleep quality, talk to a registered healthcare professional.
3. Eat Healthy
According to an article written by the Harvard Health Journal, a balanced diet plays a key role in maintaining good health. Zinc, iron, folic acid, vitamin A, B, C, and D all contribute to a healthy immune system. You can find them naturally in fresh fruits and vegetables, meat products, and dairy. If you’re having a hard time balancing these food groups, supplement with a multivitamin.
4. Stay Calm
High stress levels cause the body to produce excessive amounts of a hormone called cortisol. Once released, it exacerbates inflammation and lowers lymphocyte levels (a white blood cell necessary to help fight infection). In order to combat stress, the solution can be as easy as breathing! The Cleveland Clinic recommends meditating for 10-15 minutes each day, 3-4 times per week or practicing yoga. Both are effective ways to reduce stress and keep your immune system in great shape.
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, maintain a healthy body weight, as well as boost the immune system. The Heart and Stroke Foundation recommends that adults accumulate 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic physical activity per week. Don’t have a gym membership? No problem! Go for a jog, or a walk in the park, or browse the web for at-home workouts.
At SnoreMD we believe that it is our role and responsibility to provide an unparalleled level of care to our patients. If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, we want to help. Our conveniently located, Western Canada clinics offer free sleep testing and are open 6-7 days a week. For more information, please visit our website at www.snoremdcanada.ca
About the Author:
Ally Robertson is an experienced Registered Respiratory Therapist and Sleep Clinician with Snore MD. Her transition from critical care to community-based medicine was spurred by a desire to help make healthcare more accessible for Canadians. She is always inspired by people and organizations that invest in the health and wellbeing of others.