Combatting Covid-19
The spread of this virus has attained the dubious status of being termed pandemic. Cossetting yourself indoors and shutting out the world may seem to be the safest option. This sounds awfully like the story of the 10 Year war waged because of Helen of Troy. The fortifications were impregnable (just like your home), but if like a Trojan horse one tiny virus sneaked in, are you equipped to deal with it? Let me state here, that I am NOT a fear monger, nor am I an idle speculator. I deal in reality, unpleasant though it may be. I suggest that you read on and digest what I have to say even though it may "rock your boat". IT MAY JUST SAVE YOUR LIFE!!
This past week you have been in quarantine, self imposed or otherwise. A very sensible safety precaution, but is that enough? What choice do you have, but to sit at home reading or watching TV, or sitting in front of a computer all day, all the while snacking with no exercise. Not your fault of course! The gyms are closed. But to whom do you complain if you should encounter that stray microscopic virus?
What I am suggesting... no, emphatically stating, is that you work on strengthening your immunity. Follow a strict cardio exercise routine. Should you not have an exercise bike, treadmill or a cross trainer at home, you could try skipping or 'on the spot' jogging. Remembering all the while to stay well hydrated!
Eat healthy by restricting your intake of fats and carbs. Instead, eat mineral and vitamin rich foods, particularly Zinc. Zinc is one of the principle building blocks of your immune system. It may surprise you to know that some of the traditionally "unhealthy foods", namely oysters and lamb are some of the richest sources of Zinc. Before you cry out, "What about vegetarians?" Well, the vegetarian foods that are rich in Zinc are cashew nuts, chickpeas, lentils and pumpkin seeds. However, oyster and lamb have a higher concentration of Zinc when compared to vegetarian food. Failing which, take a daily Zinc supplement (30mg).
Unlike Zinc, which is 'systemic', raw onion (60gms eaten daily) acts as a highly effective 'contact' preventive to the virus. Raw onion secretes enzymes and Sulfenic Acid that converts to Sulfuric Acid when they mix with moisture (saliva). The virus will not be able to survive the contact with the Sulfuric Acid as it lodges for 4 days in the mouth and upper respiratory passages before entering the lungs.
Quarantine, social distancing and hygiene are important and should be followed assiduously, however, they are all about avoidance. Avoidance is the first line of defense. If even one tiny virus were to thwart your efforts at avoidance and sneak in, to take up residence in your upper respiratory tract, is your body equipped and capable of combatting the virus? The point is, don't panic! Just follow the above guidelines to keeping a healthy lifestyle and you will be safe.