There is no denying it, Arizonans are in the midst of a full-blown resurgence in the fight against COVID-19. And while we must take every conceivable precaution to combat this pandemic, we also must ask ourselves some critical questions. Are we going to shut down our economy and self-isolate and wear masks every time a virus hits us? We know that everyone is susceptible to coronavirus, so what can everyone do to lower their risk? What if you could make yourself healthier and less likely to contract any illness?
Firstly, let me say that the now-commonly-known guidelines are indeed helpful. Wearing masks, exercising social distancing, and washing your hands certainly makes a difference … although how much of a difference remains to be seen. When it comes to hand washing, we need to do it more often and before and after we touch surfaces. Washing technique is also essential; you want to wash your hands thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds, with warm soap and water, and make sure to get in the fingernails and all the way down your fingers with lather.
Hand-sanitizer is fine, but nothing beats proper handwashing. Paper and cloth masks are also effective, but how effective we do not know. But what else can be done? What are we overlooking? Quite simply, we need to make our immune systems stronger. Especially since, in the coming years, we are likely to be faced with new and more aggressive viral outbreaks.
When it comes to boosting your immune system, it is essential to remember that change starts from within. Deep within. Up to 70 percent of our immune system comes from our intestines — yes, that often-overlooked 25 feet of tubing that runs throughout our bodies. Improving intestinal wellness will not only help your immune system, but it would aid in committing many other common problems like acne and obesity.
You can begin improving your intestinal health by eliminating excess wheat and dairy in your diet and taking some over-the-counter supplements. An excellent probiotic (such as Xyomgen), fiber, zinc, and L-glutamine are all great for intestinal health. In addition, several specific gut health supplements improve gut wall defense by preventing viruses and bacteria from being absorbed.
The other hidden key for staying healthy is to make sure your hormones are at optimal levels. Essential hormones to check are estrogen, testosterone, as well as your thyroid and cortisol levels. Yet even more important than having these tests performed is having the right expert to interpret the levels. Unfortunately, this is something that cannot be left to one’s regular doctor, as they typically follow the guidelines from the lab. The providers at VitalityMDs are skilled in interpreting hormone levels and among the few specialists in the Valley.
In closing, please continue to exercise CDC guidelines whenever possible (proper handwashing, social distancing, and wearing masks). However, the real key to defeating coronavirus and other future outbreaks lies within. For more information on intestinal wellness, hormone levels, or immune health, feel free to call my office, and please remember to stay safe as together we overcome this dreadful pandemic.
Dr. Burt Webb has been practicing for over 40 years and is one of the most respected minds in the Valley in the fields of gynecology, intestinal health, and women’s sexual wellness. The co-founder of Scottsdale’s VitalityMDs, Dr. Webb has lectured around the world and has been voted Top Doctor by Phoenix Magazine 13 years in a row. What sets him apart is his careful attention to detail, ability to think outside the box, and the way he listens to his patients.
