four immune boosting diet suggestions for diabetes and weight problems when recovering from Covid-19

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If ever there was a time when we needed to take care of our health, it was during the pandemic.

While the virus was brutal to most people, diabetics and obese people have proven to be part of the vulnerable group, whose immune systems are slightly weakened, making them prone to contracting Covid-19

Registered nutritionist Omy Naidoo says the effects of Covid-19 are greater for people with diabetes and obesity.

“People who have diabetes and are obese are more likely to have severe complications from Covid-19. In general, people with diabetes are more likely to have more severe symptoms and complications when infected with a virus. On the other hand, obesity has proven to be a strong and independent risk factor for serious infections and deaths from Covid-19, ”says Naidoo.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity significantly increases the likelihood of serious consequences for Covid-19 patients. Additional healthy dietary measures must also be taken for people with diabetes.

Healthy eating plays an important role in our overall health and immune system. The food we put into our body directly affects our emotions and our body functions. This applies during an illness as well as before or after it.

“Those recovering from the coronavirus should eat a variety of fresh and unprocessed foods every day to get the vitamins, minerals, fiber, proteins, and antioxidants their bodies need. They should also drink enough water and avoid sugar, fat and salt in order to significantly reduce their risk of diabetes and obesity, ”adds Naidoo.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet with a variety of different foods will ensure that you are getting all of the essential nutrients and energy you need throughout the day. Even if someone has been exposed to or infected with the virus, eating a healthy diet is essential for recovery and strengthening the immune system.

Four immune-boosting nutrition tips for diabetics and obese people recovering from Covid-19:

Proteins

Protein is an important nutrient for cell growth and regeneration. It is the building block of life and is needed by our body for faster recovery. A protein-rich diet is recommended for those with Covid-19 disease.

A daily intake of 75-100 g of protein is essential. Add more foods like lentils, legumes, milk and dairy products, soy, nuts, seeds, meat, chicken, fish, and eggs.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with immune boosters, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. These can be an excellent addition to your diet to help you recover faster and strengthen your immune system.

Try five servings of fruits and vegetables in a day.

Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which helps build antibodies and fight infections, while green and root vegetables help boost the immune system.

Also, spend some time outdoors to get enough vitamin D.

Less sugar and salt

When cooking and preparing food, limit the amount of salt and high-sodium spices (such as soy sauce and fish sauce).

Limit your daily salt intake to less than 5 g (about a teaspoon) and use iodized salt.

Avoid foods (like snacks) that are high in salt and sugar.

Limit your intake of soft drinks or sodas and other beverages with a high sugar content (such as fruit juices, fruit juice concentrates and syrups, flavored milk, and yogurt drinks). Choose fresh fruit instead of sweet snacks like cookies, cakes, and chocolates.

liquids

Water is a vital element as it carries nutrients in the blood, regulates body temperature, and flushes toxins out of the body. Infection can also dry out the body.

Try to drink at least two to three liters of water a day. You can also consume herbal blends, coconut water, milk, and fresh juice.

Avoid packaged juices, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.

Dealing with the pandemic is tough and demanding at the same time. In the midst of these difficulties and changes, it is even more important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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