Coronavirus: A New Normal. A New Way Of Thinking. A New Way To Look After Ourselves.

Since the Coronavirus began, back in late December of 2019, it’s clear that it has presented us all with our own significant challenges. And after almost three months since the UK Government imposed the lockdown on the evening of Monday 23 March, the ‘new normal’ has inadvertently imposed a strict blueprint on how we Brits, and people all over the world, go about our daily lives. A change in work routines, home-schooling our children, and not to mention the way we pay due diligence in the interaction with those outside our household have all contributed to how we look after ourselves and the ones we love.

Spending more time at home has seen a significant rise on the way we use our digitally enabled devices, be it as a simple way of distraction from the outside world or to search for some clarity about Covid 19 in a sea of constant misinformation that circulates various social media platforms. The plain truth is, that right now, there is no miracle vaccine, food source, or supplement that can cure or prevent Coronavirus. In fact, some so-called, and of late highly publicised, ‘coronavirus cures’ are actually dangerous, which leaves many of us asking what is the best way I can look after myself during this pandemic?

Again, I cannot stress that there is no amount of vitamin shots or mineral infusions that will prevent you from becoming unwell, should you come into contact with a pathogen like the coronavirus. At present, washing our hands frequently and social distancing from others outside of our homes are still the most strongly recommended pieces of advice by the UK Government, to prevent the spread of Covid 19. Maintaining simple habits like regular exercise, consuming a healthy diet and getting enough sleep should positively contribute to our mental and physical wellbeing too. However there are some studies that suggest some vitamins and supplements could reduce the likelihood of a respiratory virus or reduce the amount of time a person is unwell with it. So if you are considering supplementation during these unforeseen times, here is a breakdown of what Natures Healthbox has to offer and how it might help you:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been studied for thousands of years as a possible treatment for colds and viral infections. This research has consistently provided inconsistent results, and while it appears that vitamin C doesn’t reduce the incidence of colds it does shorten their duration. According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily amount of vitamin C for adults is 75 to 90mg, and if you are unable to obtain this from fruit & vegetables then supplementation could be considered to boost your levels.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a significant role in the overall functions of the immune system, which is our body's first line of defense against infection and disease. And because we get a lot of the vitamin D from the sun, low levels of vitamin D are often associated with frequent colds and influenza during the winter months. 

Zinc

A study of Zinc lozenges, back in 2017, suggested that they may support the immune system and help fight off infections caused by common colds faster. Zinc lozenges are believed to work by inhibiting virus activity in the throat, when the infection is just beginning to spread. With this in mind, you may find that sucking on zinc lozenges as soon as symptoms occur, may provide relief from a throat-based, viral infection.

Elderberry

Elderberry in the form of in tea, lozenges or gummies may help strengthen a person’s immune response to a virus. A study in 2019 indicated that compounds from elderberries have potent antiviral effects that could help to inhibit a virus at the early stages of infection, preventing viral proteins from attaching themselves to human cells and further spreading.

Echinacea

Traditionally, echinacea has a long history of medicinal use in the fight against colds and infections. More recent studies suggest that echinacea could reduce the length of a cold and the severity of its symptoms, however, two major clinical trials tended to dispute this claim. And at the time of writing, a study in Switzerland by a team of leading virologists and microbiologists is looking into whether echinacea purpurea preparations could work as an effective prophylactic treatment for newly occurring strains of the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus. This research continues with baited breath. 

Probiotics

A myriad of studies link probiotics containing Bifidobacterium & Lactobacillus strains to a reduction in the severity and duration of a respiratory infection. Probiotics are also thought to give the immune system a boost and inhibit the growth of harmful gut bacteria, while certain probiotics have also been shown to promote the production of natural antibodies in the body. You can find probiotics in yoghurt and fermented foods, however supplements seem to offer the best way to get the right amount required to fight infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar 

Many people consume apple cider vinegar for a variety of different health benefits, however while there isn’t enough evidence to show it positively affects immune function right now, a study conducted in 2011 suggests that it helps to remove mucus out of the respiratory system more quickly.

CBD

It would be an understatement to say that many of us have been frightened, or even traumatised, by the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic, so if a daily dose of meditation or rigorous exercise regime, at home, with Joe Wicks on the TV has failed to become a regular part of your lockdown coping mechanism, then perhaps CBD could help. Despite its constant ability to provoke mixed opinions about its use here in the UK, there is no doubt that CBD sales have dramatically increased during the lockdown period. It appears more and more of us are now turning to CBD to look after our mental wellbeing during these stressful times.

Conclusion

Remember, none of the aforementioned has been tested specifically with regards to Covid 19, but many have been tested with other viruses. It’s safe to say the best way we can support our immunity is by following the government's guidelines, staying active while we stay home and taking up something productive to occupy our mind. However if you feel you need that little bit of extra help, Natures Healthbox have you covered. 

Stay safe everyone x