Has COVID-19 (aka coronavirus) got you in a frenzy??
I get it. Anytime we get news of a new virus infecting thousands and resulting in death, it gets real unnerving. I’m not going to tell you not to take this seriously (the situation has me reconsidering some travel plans – mostly out of concern I might get stuck somewhere, not contract the virus). But I am frustrated that the attention to this health issue in the media is creating panic, when what we should be focusing on is PREVENTION. All the time. Not just in the face of a new virus spreading. Also – let’s keep some things in perspective:
- Globally, the coronavirus has killed over 3,000 people and six of those have been in the US. Most of the deaths have been in China.
- In the US, over 16,000 people have died and over 280,000 people have been hospitalized from the influenza virus this season. Over 100 of the deaths from the flu have been children [Source].
- Most of the people affected by the coronavirus are elderly and/or already have a compromised immune system. (We should be making every effort to protect this demographic.)
- And while it has the potential to be more deadly when someone does contract coronavirus, it is much less transmissible than the flu.
Just this week, the U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams urged Americans to remain calm:
We should be cautious and take appropriate measures to prepare and protect ourselves, but we should not be afraid…We’ve been through this before, and no place in the world is better prepared to handle this challenge. Adams also urged healthy people not to create a shortage on masks by stocking up on them. They don’t provide you respiratory protection against diseases like coronavirus, he said. They protect others from your cough. [Source]
It’s important to do what feels right and protects you and your loved ones. But please know there are lots of ways to protect yourself from the coronavirus and ANY virus for the matter. See my top prevention tips below. Let’s all practice good health and hygiene!
Elevated Mama’s Top Virus Prevention Practices
Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
Every news report right now is re-emphasizing this very simple practice. But the reminder is always a good one. In fact, I always recommend ditching the hand sanitizer and opting for washing your hands with a regular soap (not anti-bacterial). Want to learn more on how many hand sanitizers today cause more health harm than good? Check out this list of sanitizers that the FDA has on their SHOULD NOT USE list and TIME magazine guidance on this issue. You can also make your own hand sanitizer to control ingredients and avoid harmful chemicals.
Increase your Vitamin C intake.
Did you know that most people who get the flu and viruses like COVID-19 are deficient in Vitamin C? I add superfoods like Camu powder – which has 10X the Vit C of an orange – to my oatmeal and smoothies for an added natural Vitamin C boost. I also like adding Maqui powder for extra antioxidants to my smoothies and smoothie bowls. And my family gets a ton of Vitamin C and host of other phytonutrients from taking Juice Plus+ every day (see more on that below).
Want consistent good health all year round?
Practice Elevated Mama’s Six Steps for Total Wellness
(1) Eat A Rainbow
It’s important to eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies year-round to build a healthy immune system and prevent illness.
Spring/Summer/Fall: Aim to consume local and organic produce and eat what’s in season to get the most nutrition from your fruits and veggies.
Winter: It’s harder to get seasonal fruits and veggies but in addition to your Juice Plus+ habit, you can still get many benefits from frozen organic fruits and veggies. It’s the one time of year I recommend you visit the freezer section of your local grocery.
Take a whole food supplement year-round. My family’s health would not be as robust as it is without the support of Juice Plus+where we get nutrition from 30 whole foods concentrated into plant powders in a capsule (chews for my kiddos) every single day. Click here for more info on why this is my #1 tool for staying on top of your wellness game! 
(2) Hydrate Like A Boss
Hydration is key for every aspect of our health. And we don’t get nearly enough. Use this handy chart for gauging water intake for your body. Carry a water bottle with you at all times. Add citrus, cucumber, mint, berries or a drop of essential oil to your water to add flavor and offer additional health benefits. Repeat Tip #1 – Eat more fruits and veggies – they are mostly water just like us!
(3) Integrate Essential Oils
I’m a fan of plant-based wellness from lots of sources, and essential oils play a big role in my daily wellness regimen. Essential oils can be used for a wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. Some my favorites include: Lavender (calming), Peppermint (gut and respiratory), Lemon (immune), Cinnamon/Clove (anti-viral/bacteria, anti-inflammatory), Eucalyptus (anti-viral, respiratory). These are staples in my family’s natural medicine cabinet. Make sure you get a therapeutic grade essential oil!
(4) Get some Zzzzzz’s
Did you know that sleep deprivation causes:
- increased levels of of cortisol (hello tire ring around our waist, back pain, depression, irritability, and acne…to name a few)
- decreased glycogen synthesis (inability to gain or lose weight, low energy)
- retention of environmental toxins (which can cause a multitude of health issues, including potential for disease and autoimmune disorders)
Adults need 7-9 hours. Children even more. Sleep does a body good! Get you some!
(5) Move Your Body
You do not need a New Year’s Resolution to prioritize exercise. There are endless options for home workouts, walks around the neighborhood or even walking stairs at the office. I even do ab exercises in my car. Get moving! Check out this Home Fitness Series if you need some inspiration on how to make movement happen at any part of your day.
(6) Bond with the ACV Mother
ACV, or Apple Cider Vinegar, is a health staple that should always be in the pantry. Be sure to get Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, with “mother”. Got a cold or sore throat? Indigestion? Want a quick detox? Mix 1-2 tbsp of ACV, a little honey (to taste), 2 tsp Lemon Juice, 4-6 oz warm water. Sip, enjoy and feel better. [Note: add 2 tbsp of black strap molasses instead of lemon and honey for additional health benefits.]