COVID Update and Tips for Beating the Summer Heat
COVID Update
The highly transmissible delta variant has become the predominant COVID strain in the US, and unfortunately, we are seeing increasing incidence of post-vaccination infections in addition to the increasing rates of disease in various areas of the country (especially in areas where vaccination rates are low). We encourage our members to continue to follow precautions, and to engage in healthy self-care to support your resilience and reduce your risks. Simple measures such as continued masking when indoors in the company of others with unknown vaccination status and / or unknown symptoms is advised. We would also like to remind our members and our community about the significant efficacy of vaccines. While the Delta variant is more transmissible than other viruses, vaccines are very effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalizations. Recently updated data from the CDC confirms lower rates of disease, hospitalization, and death in vaccinated people.
Many members are also asking about the COVID booster; however this is currently not recommended in US. We know that Israel began providing boosters to people > 65 and it is possible that we may do the same in the US; however, while there is data demonstrating boosted immunity via measurable blood tests, it is not clear from a clinical standpoint that additional protection is needed. We also don't have a full understanding about the risks or side effects of a 3rd vaccine. Our speculation is that if a booster is suggested in the US, it will be suggested in specific populations such as severely immunocompromised patients and / or patients greater than 65 years old.
Working with one of our health coaches is a great way to support overall healthy habits, and to help you optimize your lifestyle choices to enhance your immune health. If you do develop symptoms (many of which overlap with that of the common cold) please be sure to inform your physician. We are also advising that you consider purchasing BinaxNOW over-the-counter rapid COVID test kits; these tests can be performed at home with resulting in 15 minutes. Having these on hand can allow you to be tested expediently and help prevent spread of disease. Of course, continue to contact your physician if you have symptoms and / or if your rapid test is positive to arrange confirmation testing and provide guidance.
Beat the Heat
As August brings its usual heat, there are many natural ways to help support your body during the hot temperatures. Here are some of our favorite tips from the Synergy Kitchen to cool your body down naturally on the hottest days of summer:
Drink plenty of fluids with electrolytes (so long as this is appropriate in context of your medical condition(s)). Pay attention to thirst cues from your body and try to drink ~8 glasses per day with at least half of the fluid content containing electrolytes. Great ways to enhance your hydration include adding fresh or frozen berries to your water, lemon, lime, cucumber, mint, herbal teas, or even a small splash of apple cider vinegar. These provide a little flavor to your water and can help your tissues to absorb it. Maple water and coconut water are other natural sources of electrolytes that can be found in almost all grocery stores; keep in mind that maple water has a lower sugar content than coconut. Always check the ingredients to make sure nothing is added to these drinks.
Consume foods with higher water content. Fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, watermelon, strawberries, peaches, zucchini, lettuce, bell peppers, and grapefruit are full of H2O and can help to support your hydration on hot days (if these foods are appropriate for you to eat).
You can incorporate herbs that are considered “cooling” into your diet. Examples include lemon balm, lavender, elderflower, spearmint, peppermint, and lemongrass. Consider adding these options to your water, to your salads, or steep them in water to make your own herbal tea and enjoy warm or cool.
Moderate amounts of spices can also help you cool down by opening your pores and inducing sweating (if you tolerate these foods).
Remember to eat light and emphasize fresh plant-based foods such as leafy greens and seasonal fruits and vegetables. This is a great time of year to support your local CSA and remember, Synergy members have exclusive discounts with Sienna Farms CSA, and also for farm-fresh meal delivery with 9 Miles East. Check out Member Archives on our Synergy website for codes and links. You can also check out our recipe archives to find great inspiration and guidance for using your summer veggies.
This article does not constitute the practice of medicine, healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always talk to your healthcare provider regarding your specific medical needs.