Wellbeing

Self-isolating? How to Stay on Top of Your Hydration, Diet and Exercise

hydration, diet and exercise

Nutrition, hydration and staying active

If you’re self-isolating because you have coronavirus or you’re trying to reduce your risk of infection, there are many things you can do to stay healthy even though you may be confined to your house.

What should I eat?

We are all familiar with the chaos at the supermarkets and it may have left you worried that there isn’t enough food to go around, but supermarkets have promised they can keep up with the demand. However, many people have been stocking up on white carbs like pasta, bread and cereals, but many other foods may have been overlooked that your body needs to stay healthy.

For example, fruit, vegetables and whole grains are sources of essential nutrients your body needs to fight infection, give you energy, keep your bones strong and support organ function. Although getting fresh varieties may be a little difficult there are alternative options like frozen, tinned and dried in the case of fruit and veg, and when it comes to whole grains there are others to choose from rather than just your staple or favourite.

It may be the perfect time to try something new, experience different flavours and even experiment with food. You can even use tinned beans and lentils to help bulk out meals and they’re a great source of fibre, too, so will keep your digestive system functioning. The last thing you need is to experience uncomfortable symptoms like bloating or constipation.

What should I drink?

Water is by far the best drink available to you, but we know that some people can find it difficult to only drink water. That’s why if you’re self-isolating you could mix it up by alternating plain water with different flavours like fruit juices, herbal tea, coffee, milk or even soup, all these will help to boost your hydration levels.

Drinking little and often is key to avoiding dehydration. If you feel thirsty or need to drink large amounts in one go, that’s an early sign that your body is already becoming dehydrated. So, set reminders throughout the day to take sips of water or use your hydration tracker bottle to keep your fluid levels topped up.

Can I exercise whilst self-isolating?

Staying home all day can affect your daily routine but adding exercise to it can help to restore some structure. Exercise is great for all aspects of your health because it can keep you physically fit and keep your mind active.

It may be possible to go outside for a walk but you should try to stay at least two metres away from other people. If you can’t leave your house, it is possible to exercise indoors, for example:

  • You can carry out strength exercises with everyday objects like cans of beans or bags of potatoes
  • Use your bottom step like an aerobic step
  • Take advantage of the internet, it’s full of useful exercise at-home resources
  • Set up a circuit training course in your front room, utilising the floor space and different types of furniture
  • Yoga is a great activity that you can take part in, in the comfort of your own home

Being in self-isolation, although tough could be fun, the key here is to be creative. When it comes to exercise why not video-call friends and exercise together or try experimenting with new cooking dishes. Even though you may feel like you’re locked away, it is important to stay on top of your health, both physical and mental so you can be fighting fit for when life gets back to a sense of normality.

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