Drink This After Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine, Says the CDC

After a year of routinely hearing "we're living in unprecedented times" due to the "novel coronavirus," the vaccine's arrival has seemingly sent a wave of relief across the globe.

While the nationwide rollout has been slower in some parts than in others, some 15.3% of Americans have received at least the first dose of the vaccine, and about half of that percentage have received the second dose. As it becomes more widely available to people across the nation, it's important to be informed on what you can do immediately after the shot is administered to prepare for potential symptoms. (Related: The One Vitamin Doctors Are Urging Everyone to Take Right Now)

For example, the CDC suggests that you should drink plenty of fluids after getting the shot, especially if you develop a fever. It may also be beneficial to drink plenty of fluids before getting your shot, as well. Thankfully, you don't have to rely on water to keep you hydrated. In fact, there are many ways you can keep your water intake steady without opting for plain ole tap or even bottled water—and there's one particular drink you should sip on after getting the vaccine.

Our recommendation? Try drinking some green tea after your shot. Whether you prefer to drink it chilled or prepare it piping hot, drinking the calming beverage is an excellent way to rehydrate (especially if you were in the waiting room or standing in line for a while) and get a boost of antioxidants. And it's an easy fluid to drink after getting the vaccine.

In fact, green tea has even been studied to help fight off COVID-19. According to a 2020 study published in the journal Frontiers, some chemical compounds found in green tea (as well as dark chocolate) were able to inhibit the function of one of the main enzymes in the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is what causes the infectious disease COVID-19. When this enzyme loses its function, the virus can no longer replicate and spread throughout the body.

Of course, as the study author previously told us, "To demonstrate the medicinal applications of these compounds and extracts, it has a long way to go."

However, drinking green tea may also offer a host of other potential health benefits, with studies indicating that it may reduce the risk of death from diabetes to even helping people recover from heart attack and stroke.

Now, be sure to watch out for these 9 Mistakes That are Ruining Your Cup of Tea.