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5 ways to strengthen immunity against severe respiratory viruses

5 ways to strengthen immunity against severe respiratory viruses

Respiratory viruses pose a significant public health concern, as they can spread easily from one person to another, making them responsible for a considerable portion of respiratory infections worldwide. In a world that constantly faces threats from these viruses, bolstering one’s immunity becomes paramount. A robust immune system is the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. This article focuses on alternative ways to enhance immunity against respiratory viruses to provide insights to help individuals protect themselves.

Effects of the pandemic on lung health
The pandemic has significantly impacted lung health, primarily causing acute respiratory symptoms in infected individuals, including coughing, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. Vulnerable populations with pre-existing respiratory conditions face worsened symptoms and outcomes. Additionally, the strain on healthcare systems has affected timely access to care for respiratory issues. The pandemic’s psychological toll, including anxiety and stress, can exacerbate respiratory problems.

In light of these risks, here are some strategies one can implement to boost immunity:

Vaccinations
Vaccinations, including mRNA (messenger RNA) and non-mRNA options, can help fortify the immune system against respiratory viruses. These vaccines work by introducing a harmless part of the virus or its genetic material into the body, prompting the immune system to produce protective antibodies. mRNA vaccines employ a small piece of the virus’s mRNA to stimulate this immune response. Non-mRNA vaccines, such as those made by Novavax, contain lab-grown spikes and use a portion of virus components. The Novavax vaccine has demonstrated strong efficacy in clinical trials against various variants of the virus, providing a promising option in the global effort to combat the pandemic.

Food and nutrition
A balanced meal plan, abundant in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, serves as the bedrock for a robust immune system. Nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins, provide the necessary building blocks for a robust immune response. A mindful approach to nutrition can help complement other strategies in the pursuit of enhanced respiratory health.

Home remedies
In addition to established healthcare approaches, home remedies offer a complementary avenue for enhancing immune resilience against respiratory viruses. While they are not substitutes for health advice, incorporating certain home remedies, such as herbal teas, steam inhalation, and honey-based elixirs, can provide soothing relief and support to the immune system. It’s important to consult licensed professionals for guidance on incorporating home remedies safely and effectively into one’s wellness routine.

Lifestyle changes
Strategic lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to activating immunity against respiratory viruses. A proactive approach to one’s daily life can foster resilience and reduce susceptibility to infections. Prioritizing adequate sleep, managing stress, and staying physically active all play vital roles in supporting a robust immune response. Additionally, minimizing exposure to environmental toxins and adopting preventive measures like regular handwashing and mask-wearing in crowded settings can further fortify the body’s natural defenses.

Staying hydrated
Water helps in the transportation of nutrients, the elimination of toxins, and the overall balance of bodily fluids. Dehydration can compromise immune responses, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections. Thus, ensuring a daily intake of 8-10 glasses of water can be a simple yet powerful means of supporting respiratory health and strengthening the body’s defenses against viral invaders.

In all, vaccinations, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, hydration, and lifestyle changes can help enhance immunity. Incorporating these methods into daily routines can help one protect themselves from respiratory infections.

Reference links:

https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/the-novavax-vaccine-against-covid-19-what-you-need-to-know

https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/covid-19-vaccine-comparison#:~:text=Novavax,vaccines%20in%20their%20early%20trials

https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/covid-19/study-novavax-covid-vaccine-estimates-100-efficacy-against-hospitalizations

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa2116185

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Hyperkalemia – 10 foods to avoid

Potassium plays a huge role in the health of our heart muscles and nerve cells. And high levels of this element in the blood cause hyperkalemia. If you consume meals high in potassium, your doctor may advise you to decrease portion sizes and concentrate on fruits and vegetables with a lower potassium content. Here is a list of foods rich in potassium that must be avoided if you have hyperkalemia. Yogurt and dairy products A serving of nonfat yogurt weighing eight ounces has roughly 625 mg of potassium, making it one of the dairy aisle's highest sources of potassium. Even reduced fat milk contains 366 mg of potassium in a glass of cow's whole milk. Ricotta and cottage cheese are also high in potassium. Goat cheese is a low potassium food, proving that not all cheeses are made equal. Likewise, About 131 milligrams of potassium may be found in a half cup of vanilla ice cream. Bananas When people consider foods high in potassium, bananas frequently come to mind. A banana normally contains 422 mg of potassium. Among all the fruit, bananas are athletes' favorite as they provide energy. However, it could be highly dangerous for someone suffering from hyperkalemia. Consult your doctor if you have hyperkalemia and stick to fruits such as apples and berries. Leafy vegetables About 420 milligrams of potassium can be found in only a half cup of cooked spinach. Raw spinach, young or mature, has roughly 167 mg per cup. Fennel, bok choy, beet greens, and Swiss chard are also high in potassium. You can opt for kale instead. Kale has more nutrients than these other dark leafy greens, but it has less potassium. 73 mg is present in one cup of raw kale. Fish Clams, which provide 534 mg of potassium in just 3 ounces, are the finest source of protein from seafood. Around three ounces of skipjack tuna offers 444 mg, another major source of potassium. One of the most popular fish, salmon, frequently has a lower potassium content. Keeping a check on what type of fish you are eating if you have hyperkalemia is a must. Kidney beans Beans are a balanced addition to any meal plan as they're rich sources of protein and fiber. However, according to data from the USDA, one cup of the kidney-shaped type has 713 mg of potassium. A half-cup of black beans has 489 mg of potassium. Avocado This creamy, green-fleshed fruit is packed with 690 mg of potassium and is high in fiber and heart-healthy lipids. Although it might seem good for your heart, you should avoid it if you have hyperkalemia. Potatoes Potassium is heavily concentrated in potatoes; 925 milligrams of potassium may be found in a baked potato. A three-ounce portion of french-fried potatoes has 470 mg of potassium and a lot of fat and calories. The potassium content in an ounce of potato chips is 465 mg. Indulging in fast foods like fries is adverse for those with hyperkalemia. Oranges A single orange has 240 mg of potassium, making it a food with a high potassium content. With 450 mg per 8 oz glass, orange juice is a more potent source of potassium. Fruits vary in their potassium content. Berries are a poor source of potassium and can be a decent substitute for oranges and orange juice. Another good option is apples. Dried fruits The nutrients in fruit, including potassium, that have been dried are concentrated. You get roughly 750 milligrams from half a cup of dried apricots. Also, even though raisins and dried plums make a fantastic snack, they should be avoided by someone with hyperkalemia. Legumes and beans Legumes are a significant source of potassium as well. White beans have the most, with 600 mg of potassium in a half cup. In half a cup serving, other legumes such as lima beans and pinto beans have between 300 and 350 mg.

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Duchenne muscular dystrophy, or DMD, is a rare, progressive genetic disorder that affects the muscles, primarily in males. DMD is characterized by the weakening and degeneration of muscle tissue, leading to significant mobility issues and, in many cases, a shortened lifespan. While a cure for the condition is yet to be determined, ongoing research seeks to improve management and treatment options. Find below the signs of DMD and ways to diagnose the disease. Signs and symptoms DMD is a condition that typically presents early in childhood. The signs and symptoms of DMD may vary in severity but generally become more pronounced as the child grows older. Some common indicators include: Muscle weakness One of the earliest signs is weakness in the muscles of the pelvis and upper legs. Children with DMD may struggle to get up from the floor or climb stairs. Delayed motor milestones Affected children often experience delays in reaching motor milestones, like sitting up, crawling, and walking. Some may never achieve independent walking. Waddling gait As the disease progresses, the weakening of leg muscles causes a waddling gait that makes walking more challenging. Frequent falls Children with DMD may experience frequent falls due to muscle weakness, making activities that require balance and coordination difficult. Enlarged calves Another distinctive feature of DMD is calf muscle enlargement, caused by the replacement of muscle tissue with fat and connective tissue. Contractures Muscle contractures, where joints become stiff and less flexible, are common. These may affect the ability to move arms and legs freely. Respiratory issues As DMD progresses, respiratory muscles weaken, leading to breathing difficulties. This could result in the need for ventilatory support. Heart complications DMD may affect the heart, causing cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) and potentially leading to heart failure. Diagnosis Diagnosing DMD typically involves a combination of healthcare evaluations, genetic testing, and muscle biopsies. Here's how it is typically diagnosed: Evaluation at a healthcare center A healthcare provider may assess the child's health history and conduct a physical examination. They may look for the signs and symptoms mentioned earlier, paying close attention to muscle weakness and motor delays. Genetic testing To confirm the diagnosis, a genetic test is usually performed. Most cases of DMD are caused by mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes a protein called dystrophin. Genetic testing may identify these mutations. Muscle biopsy In certain cases, a muscle biopsy may be performed to examine muscle tissue under a microscope. This might help confirm the presence of muscle degeneration.

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Potassium plays a huge role in the health of our heart muscles and nerve cells. And high levels of this element in the blood cause hyperkalemia. If you consume meals high in potassium, your doctor may advise you to decrease portion sizes and concentrate on fruits and vegetables with a lower potassium content. Here is a list of foods rich in potassium that must be avoided if you have hyperkalemia. Yogurt and dairy products A serving of nonfat yogurt weighing eight ounces has roughly 625 mg of potassium, making it one of the dairy aisle’s highest sources of potassium. Even reduced fat milk contains 366 mg of potassium in a glass of cow’s whole milk. Ricotta and cottage cheese are also high in potassium. Goat cheese is a low potassium food, proving that not all cheeses are made equal. Likewise, About 131 milligrams of potassium may be found in a half cup of vanilla ice cream. Bananas When people consider foods high in potassium, bananas frequently come to mind. A banana normally contains 422 mg of potassium. Among all the fruit, bananas are athletes’ favorite as they provide energy. However, it could be highly dangerous for someone suffering from hyperkalemia.
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