ACHOO!!! Spring has brought sunshine, new beginnings, and plenty of sneezing. The opportunity to escape the cold may have Seniors eager to go outside and enjoy the sun, but the “not so warm” temperatures may instigate uncomfortable sniffling and sneezing. Here are five ways to boost immune systems and be ready to enjoy each day what the new season brings.
Wash Hands
“Wah your hands” has been heralded since the beginning of time. Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups emphasizes proper hand-washing techniques… warm water, soap, wash all the way to the wrist for twenty seconds while singing “Happy Birthday” in your head. When?
- Before, during and after preparing food
- Before eating
- After using the toilet
- Before and after caring for someone who is ill
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
Eat Well Balanced Meals
Social media and news articles share endless information for nutritious diets. Spring brings sunshine and healing powers, allowing Seniors a wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. Foods delivering immunity boosting vitamins are suggested by Healthline .
- Protein – seafood, lean meats, poultry, eggs, beans, peas
- Vitamin A – sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, spinach
- Vitamin C – citrus foods, strawberries, grapefruit, tangerines, red bell peppers
- Vitamin E – almonds, hazelnuts, peanut butter
- Zinc – whole grain products, beans
Stay Active
Let the sunshine in… at least 15 minutes a day. Daylight savings time has produced additional time to enjoy the daylight. Fill lungs with fresh air and improve respiration. Many approaches to exercise are proposed but need to be adopted to be of any use. Most importantly… keep moving.
Connect with Others
Say hello to others. Smile. Attend church services and social outings with friends and family. Wave at the neighbors. Volunteer. Play cards or board games. Skype, zoom, or facetime with loved ones. A healthy brain prevents depression, which wears down immunity systems.
Stay Hydrated
The Mayo Clinic suggests men drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women 11.5 cups of fluid per day. Immune systems rely on blood streams to transport fluid, nutrients and to send important communication signals to organs. Since blood plasm is about 90% water, hydration is necessary to support healthy immune systems. Staying hydrated may be accomplished by drinking plenty of water, milk, juice, or tea every day.
Bridge to Better Living assists clients in all walks of life, promoting good health and a superior Quality of Life. This is what drives our motto “Placement with Passion®.” A healthy plan for your Retirement Transition begins by having a conversation with Bridge to Better Living. Contact them today for their no-cost-ever to client services.