#StayHealthy in the new normal: Keeping your family safe at home

The health crisis has definitely changed our daily routines, be it at home orat work. But one thing is clear– we are now living a changed lifestyle. Communities are slowly re-opening and businesses are resuming as we all try to move and adjust to the “new normal” - strict implementation of social distancing in public places and for most – a longer “work-from-home” period. 

In the span of just a few “quarantined” months, the ways of living athomehasbecome a multi-functional space for personal, family, and now, work.In the face of these unprecedented times, takingthese preventive measures meanskeeping our families safe and out of harm’s way.

As the new normal inevitably becomes the norm, here are some ways to ensure a healthy and safe environment for your loved ones: 

1. Boost your immune system.

The immune system is thebody’s first line of defense against disease-causing microorganisms. Thus, the body’s immunity needs to be taken up a notch by maintaining a healthy balance of good nutrition and lifestyle. 

According to Pediatrician Dra. Gelline Suderio, “The body cannot naturally produce all the necessary vitamins and minerals. It’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to boost the immune system.Keep a balanced diet and avoid foods rich in preservatives, additives and sugar. Always keep yourself hydrated and get enough rest time and sleep at night.”

2. Take vitamins and supplements wisely. 

According to Pediatrician Dra. Andrea Carag, “Think of your vitamins and minerals asthe active ingredients in yourrecipe for healthy living. Without these micronutrients, the immune system simply wilnot function properly.Your best source of vitamins arethe food you eat, so get as many nutrients from fresh and whole foods. Multivitamins are justcomplementaryto your diet and lifestyle.Nutrients help build bones and promote brain development, which are especially significant in childhood.”

3. Keep a clean environment and maintain proper hygiene. 

With the rainy season comes a lot of illnesses, including the seasonal flu,dengue, amebiasis, and various types of respiratorytract infections.To prevent these illnesses from infectingthe home, Dra. Carag recommends to always maintaincleanliness in our home and surrounding environment. 

She shares, “The rainy season is known to bring in a variety of infections because the cooler and denser air helps pathogens survive longer. Because of this, it is imperative to always be adequately hydrated with clean, filtered water. Whenchildren play on the floor, make sure to disinfect the floor and their toys regularly and properly.Consistent washing of hands with soap and water is a must.

4. Be active and exercise regularly. 

A single session or 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise such as yoga, brisk walking or steady cycling can give the immune system a much-needed boost. 

For parents with school-age children at home, Dra. Carag recommends, “Give kids a role to play in the household. For older children and teenagers, give them responsibilities that make the household safer, like disinfecting groceries, keeping stock of face masks and soap. Have teenagers look after the younger ones by participating in their hand hygiene.”

5. Maintain a positive mindset.

Dra. Suderio stresses the importance of making children feel safe at home, managing their behavior by teaching them resilience, and keeping healthy routines in check. These behaviors are handy not just now but even after the quarantine. She says, “Maximize your time with them by doing interactive and fun activities where they can learn. Do fitness activities in the morning, baking in the afternoon, cooking healthy meals for dinner. Let the kids be involved and make every moment spent with them a learning experience.Avoid exposing them to emotional stressors like anxiety or fear. Havingthe right emotional and mental state is helpful in boosting the body’s immunity.”

Get more tips from Dra. Carag and Dra. Suderio as they share more insights in keeping a healthy and safe home post-quarantine at PLDT Home and MommyMundo’s Facebook Live #StayHomeSeries. Tune in every 11AM on May 26 and 29 at MommyMundo’s Facebook page as Dra. Carag, Dra. Suderio, and guest moms Mikaela Lagdameo and Riki Flo discuss the pressing topics on parenting and family health concerns. 

Visit PLDT Home’s social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram to know more.