As the leading global health and wellness brand, public health is one of our top concerns. GNC’s mission is to support people on their journey to Live Well, and one of the ways we deliver on that is by providing science-backed solutions for immune support.
Sudipta Veeramachaneni, Ph.D, GNC’s Vice President of Global Research, Development & Innovation, took some time to address the recent coronavirus pandemic, also known as COVID-19. In addition to covering what coronavirus is and its symptoms, she also shares ways to Live Well and support your immune system during this time.
What Is Coronavirus?
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. It is a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in more than 100 locations internationally, including in the United States.
What Is COVID-19?
This current virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19.”)
What Are Symptoms Of COVID-19?
Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases. The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure: fever, cough and shortness of breath.
What Can People Do To Protect Themselves From Coronavirus?
The CDC recommends these everyday health habits:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
What Supplements Can You Take To Support Your Immune System?
Vitamin C, probiotics with immune support and zinc all support your immune system. Echinacea, an herbal supplement, supports your natural resistance.
What Is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps support your immune system. Vitamin C contributes to immune health by supporting various cellular functions of the immune system. It also supports skin.
What Is Zinc?
Zinc is an essential mineral. Zinc plays a role in the normal development and growth of immune cells. Just like vitamin C it is an antioxidant that can play a huge role in fighting free radicals in the body. It is also involved in the majority of metabolic processes in the human body.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are healthy bacteria. There’s plenty of research on probiotics that show they play a huge role in immune health and digestive health. GNC probiotics have been clinically studied, are guaranteed live and active until the end of shelf life and do not require refrigeration.
Why Is Protein Important For Immune Health?
Protein is key part of a healthy, balanced diet. It’s important because your body uses protein for the production of various compounds and enzymes that play a role in the immune system. If you don’t think you’re getting enough protein, you can always pick up a meal replacement that contains a great source of protein so you know you’re getting enough in your diet.
What Else Can I Do To Maintain My Health?
Exercise also plays a huge role in maintaining health. With gyms shutting down, make sure you get plenty of exercise at home, whether it’s through watching videos or practicing your own personal routine that you love and embrace.
Also make sure you get plenty of rest. Studies show that people who don’t get quality sleep or enough sleep aren’t likely to feel their best. Plus, lack of sleep can also affect your health. If you’re someone who has trouble falling asleep, try a supplement that contains melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces and it’s essentially what helps you get some sleep.