I have heard so many people who immediately feel symptoms after their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. However, there are some individuals who don’t feel symptoms until the second dose. Every person is different of course, but I want to share some of the things I did that prevented me from experiencing horrible symptoms. Although I am not a medical professional, I encourage implementing these natural and simple steps prior to your vaccine.
Increase Protein Intake
Zinc is crucial in building a strong immune system. Having a strong immune system is vital for the vaccine or COVID-19 because it means that you have a stronger chance at fighting the virus. According to Healthline, zinc is found in certain foods such as meat, shellfish, legumes, dairy, vegetables, whole grains and nuts. There are many ways to consume zinc in your diet, regardless of if you are a vegan or not. However, consuming too much zinc is not good for your health, just like other vitamins. Make sure to look up what is the healthy amount of zinc that a normal individual needs. There is no need to overdo it. For example, it is beneficial to drink water but not to the point where an immense amount can harm you. Overall, a healthy amount of zinc is beneficial in building a strong immune system.
Stay Hydrated
According to UCI’s Integrative Health Institute, “staying well hydrated is also very important for detoxification pathways, increasing lymphatic draining and making sure we are clearing out any foreign invaders and other waste materials. Dehydration can contribute to muscle tension, headaches, low serotonin production and digestive issues.” Staying hydrated with water is generally vital for your health. It is important to flush out the bad toxins in your body in order to maintain a healthy gut and skin.
Probiotics
Probiotics help promote a strong immune system. Healthline states that “some probiotics have been shown to promote the production of natural antibodies in the body. They may also boost immune cells like the IgA-producing cells, T lymphocytes and natural killer cells.” By consuming probiotics, your body will be even stronger in creating the immunity that the vaccine provides. There are a variety of healthy choices of probiotic foods such as yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, miso, sauerkraut, and many more.
Exercise
Whether it is a walk outside, hiking, or quick workout at home, exercising is key to life. By being active, you are taking care of your body and training it to become stronger when it comes to diseases or the flu. Although you can still get sick in general, exercising helps promote the help of “flushing bacteria out of the lungs and airways. This may reduce your chance of getting a cold, flu, or other illness.” Before I used to workout consistently, I found myself constantly getting sick for long periods of time. However, once I started being active and eating nutritious foods, my immune system became stronger.
Although every person is different when it comes to experiencing symptoms from the vaccine, I urge you to implement these key steps before your appointment. I did not feel any symptoms at all from my first and second dose. My arm is slightly sore, but that is normal when getting a shot. Whether it is a month, week, or even a couple of days before your appointment, you will feel the difference in general by doing these steps. Overall, I was doing these things before the pandemic which is why I consider this my own lifestyle. Of course I’m not Superwoman who never gets sick, however these natural remedies are vital for living a healthy life. Stay safe and take care of your body!