Nutritionist Approved Diet Tips for COVID-19 Patients

Many COVID-19 patients are recovering at home and fighting this disease. It is well-known that nutrition plays an important role in recovery and there is a lot of misinformation around COVID-19 recovery so it is best to take the advice of a qualified professional. 

Some nutritionists have shared a generic diet plan and tips for people who are recovering from COVID-19 and how they can take care of themselves at home. These tips are useful for both vegetarians and can be altered if there are any dietary restrictions. Take a look at the tips below. 

• Include lean protein in diet including chicken, eggs, dal and beans in moderate amounts. Taking vegan protein supplements is also advised. If you are diabetic include egg whites to your diet.
• Consumption of Amla is recommended as it is a rich source of Vitamin C which helps in producing WBCs in the body. 
• Add turmeric to the diet if it isn’t already a part. It has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the damage being caused by the virus. 
• Drink plain, boiled and cooled or warm water. Aim to consume 2.5-3 litres of fluids per day.
• Include at least 2 bowls of fruits and 2-3 bowls of vegetables regularly. Do not overcook vegetables as they may reduce the vitamin content of the food.
• Deficiency of zinc is associated with immune dysfunctions  so include cereals, dals, pulses, black til, nuts, seeds, egg, chicken.
• Ginger, garlic, turmeric, tulsi, neem, lemon grass will help improve immunity so add it in your diet.
• The addition of Guava to the diet is also recommended as it  contains Vitamin C and has antioxidants. 
• Complex carbohydrates including oats, jowar, ragi and poha should be consumed in moderation. 
• Fermented foods are good for the gut and including them in your diet in a small amount can be beneficial. 

Apart from these tips, make sure you are taking all the supplements suggested by your doctor so you don’t suffer from any deficiencies and can recover well.