Build your immune system to withstand the coronavirus
Shortly after President Muhammadu Buhari announced the easing of the lockdown on 27th April 2020, memes bearing messages like: "May the best immune system win", started trending on social media. As funny as this may sound, it is the truth. Studies show that old people as well as people with a history of illnesses like cancer, diabetes, heart diseases, etc, are more susceptible to this virus as a result of their deteriorating immune system(Stat plus news). This shows the role the immune system plays in the fight against the coronavirus.
The coronavirus after incubating for an average period of 5 days(Healthline), proceeds to cause pneumonia - an inflammation of the lungs, disrupting the normal functionality of the organ which may lead to the reduction in the supply of oxygen to the body. In severe cases, other organs in the body could stop functioning as a result of inadequate oxygen(Deutsche Well). The survival of the virus in the body depends on the strength of the immune system. The immune system is the body's little soldiers that need to keep fit in order to fight pathogens like the coronavirus.
Building a strong immune system can be achieved by - avoiding alcohol and smoking, sleeping well, exercising, and eating a balanced diet. Inculcating foods like garlic, ginger, watermelon, Honey, avocado, citrus fruits, etc, into your diet would serve as a booster to your immune system based on their nutritional values.
Honey: This is a highly nutritional food that has been endorsed by many because of its benefits. It contains vitamins and minerals that are required by the body for growth and maintenance. The Michigan state university recognizes honey as an immune system builder.
Garlic: This superfood that has served as a god and currency in Egypt has been proven to possess immune system building capabilities. It is known to contain vitamin C and B6 and other micronutrients in their right proportions(Pubmed), making it the right food during this period, especially when consumed raw.
Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like lemon, orange, tangerine etc, are known primarily for containing Vitamin C "that is beneficial in fighting cold"(Healthline), its Zinc contents makes it " necessary for a healthy immune system"(Melissa Snover).
In a nutshell, embracing fruits and vegetables and consuming less processed foods is a great way to fortify your body against intruders like the coronavirus. The goal is to equip the body to fight the infection. Until a cure a found, the best way to tackle this disease is to wash our hands properly and regularly and eat proper meals so that our immune system will be fit to fight the virus if we get infected.