Chances are you’ve heard about the coronavirus by now. If you have any travel planned, you may notice people in airports wearing face masks. You may even be wondering if you should hop on board and wear one as well. But how effective are they? Can they truly keep you from getting sick?
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According to a study published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases, face masks are highly effective in preventing the spread of viral infections, when used correctly. The study found that family members of children who had flu-like illnesses were 80% less likely to contract the illness when they used a face mask.
Face masks help prevent bodily fluids that may contain viruses from escaping the nose and mouth, and they also protect against sneezes and coughs from others who may be sick. However, they aren’t foolproof. The masks cannot prevent the inhalation of airborne contaminants.
The best way to ensure you stay healthy is to boost your immune system. Along with getting high-quality sleep, avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and avoiding alcohol and unnecessary medications, here are some of the best ways to do that:
- Optimize your vitamin D levels
If you’re vitamin D deficient, your immune system will not activate to do its job. The higher your vitamin D level, the lower your risk of contracting colds, flu, and other respiratory tract infections.
- Avoid sugar and processed foods
Eating sugar, fructose and grains will increase your insulin level, which is one of the fastest ways to get sick and also experience premature aging. The harmful ingredients in processed foods make you vulnerable to disease.
- Exercise
It's a well-known fact that exercise improves the circulation of immune cells in your blood. The job of these cells is to neutralize pathogens throughout your body. The better these cells circulate, the more efficient your immune system is at locating and defending against viruses and diseases trying to attack your body.
- Eat plenty of raw food
The majority of food purchased by Americans is processed. Ideally, you want to eat as many foods as possible in their unprocessed state; typically, organic, biodynamic foods that have been grown locally.
- Learn how to effectively cope with stress
Stress has a major influence on the function of your immune system, which is why you've probably noticed you're more likely to catch a cold or the flu when you're under a lot of stress. Be sure to take time to de-stress and unwind using stress management tools like exercise, meditation, massage, and solid social support.