11+ new Tips from Dr. Juan Rivera to strengthen the immune system

With the coronavirus pandemic, we are asking ourselves more frequently what we must do to strengthen our immune system. You are one of those who, like me, have already started preparing juices and shakes for your family to protect them from possible viruses, but nothing better than the opinion of an expert. Dr. Juan Rivera shared 12 tips so that in these times of greatest vulnerability our immune system remains healthy and resistant.

There are many remedies that promise to strengthen the body, but the most important thing is that before you put your granny's advice into practice, be sure that it is beneficial for your family. The television doctor gave us a series of recommendations that strengthen the immune system. Some of them, like resting and sleeping 7 to 8 hours, will sound familiar. However, there are others that we probably do and do not do us much good.

Being stressed is one of those things that you should avoid everything. What are the vitamins you should add to your diet every day? Does Echinacea really help the immune system? The Univision health expert solves these questions for us so that you can take maximum care of yourself and prevent a virus from attacking your body. Is easier than it looks like.

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You should sleep for 7 to 8 hours daily.

When you do not sleep your immune system is affected. There are many functions that our body performs when we are sleeping, many brain functions. But also many functions of our immune system, to recover, to rest, "he said.

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Stress must be decreased to protect the immune system.

So people who are under a lot of stress get the flu all the time. All the time they have the flu, a cold, whatever they want to call it, 5 or 6 times a year. Stress lowers your defenses, "said the doctor.

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There are ways to combat stress.

"Stress lowers your defenses. So at this time when there is so much stress from so many things, on top of that we have to worry about a pandemic. You know what? I know it is difficult, but try to do things daily that improve their stress, whether it be reading, a hot water bath, in my case exercising. Whatever you want, but you have to do it, "he said.

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Smoking is not a good thing for the immune system.

"Not smoking is extremely important. Smoking increases the risk of bronchitis, increases the risk of pneumonia, which we know are the consequences of having a weak immune system," he said. Furthermore, we already know that smoking does not contribute anything good to your health, nor in your pocket, so this is the best time to overcome this addiction.

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Decrease alcohol consumption.

"Maybe they don't like it. They have to cut down on alcohol, especially around this time. Alcohol weakens the immune system and increases the risk of lung infections," explained Dr. Juan. It is important to take note of this recommendation because today more than ever our system must be strong.

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Fruits and vegetables cannot be missing from your diet.

Because fruits and vegetables have antioxidants that significantly help support the immune system," he said. So now you know my friend, when you go to the market don't forget to buy these products.

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Consuming probiotics is key.

There are many studies that suggest that our intestinal flora when it is in a good balance when the good bacteria are more than the bad, our immune system is strengthened" he explained.

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Vitamin D is also key in protecting the immune system.

Low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections. In fact, a study published in 2010 in children showed that 1,200 units of vitamin D a day decrease the risk of contracting influenza, "said the doctor.

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Doctor Rivera also recommends consuming garlic.

Garlic. Garlic strengthens the immune system, "explains the doctor. So you know,

a lot of garlic in your dishes, which will also taste better. You can also consume capsules garlic if you are one of those who fear for its strong flavor.

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Find in vitamin C a great friend of the immune system.

Dr. Juan knows the properties of vitamin C or ascorbic acid and therefore recommends that you include it in your diet. It can be both in the diet consuming fruits such as orange, grapefruit, tangerine or lemon, and of course kiwi. You can also choose to take vitamin C in capsules or as an effervescent tablet.

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Zinc is a very important mineral for your body.

Zinc is found in many foods such as seafood, meats, and seeds, in addition to mushrooms and avocados. Another alternative is to consume zinc capsules. This mineral helps the immune system to fight the bacteria and viruses that attack the body. Don't miss out on your diet!

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Echinacea is also recommended by Dr. Juan.

This plant is another of the great remedies that Dr. Juan offers you. You find it as a tincture, also in pills and capsules. The important thing is that you consume it daily and if you have any questions ask your GP. It is a good way to protect your immune system.