Coronavirus, immunity foods & basic hygiene
The coronavirus seems to have created a lot of panic and fear. There is increasing focus on coronavirus related information through daily WhatsApp forwards, newspapers and TV coverage. Many people have experienced a pre-recorded message pertaining to coronavirus each time a telephone number is dialed. Constant bombarding of coronavirus messages is bound to create panic and undue stress. It is mostly misleading. This creates panic rather than giving pointers on how to deal with the “pandemic” wisely.
The most recent coronavirus causes coronavirus disease called COVID-19. To avoid unnecessary panic, we need to have the right public health knowledge about the virus and what we can do to prevent it. Any cough, cold, fever creates panic and is immediately associated with Coronavirus symptoms. For authentic information on coronavirus, please visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website or Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website only. DO NOT RELY on any other sources for the same. Please be aware that droplets from an infected person spread the virus.
Food-related tips on Corona virus
As a qualified Clinical Nutritionist, here are my pointers on diet and diet-related health tips
- Boost your immunity and it doesn’t happen overnight. How do you do that? Eat a balanced diet rich in phytochemicals, regular exercise, drink enough water and fluids, adequate sleep, and a healthy lifestyle to develop better resistance power. It’s never too late to begin. Opt for eating and living healthily.
- The virus is not likely to be transmitted through contaminated food or imported products. There are no known reports for other coronaviruses, about infections due to food or contact with dry surfaces.
- Choose to eat home-cooked food. Avoid CRAP foods or junk, processed and ready to eat foods.
- Ensure that you eat well-cooked foods particularly meat and non-vegetarian food.
Immune Booster Foods
Some foods which are rich in antioxidants and boost your immunity are as follows.
- Amla or Indian Gooseberry
- Aloe Vera
- Green tea and Herbal teas
- Cinnamon Ginger Tea
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Turmeric
- Spices like Ginger and Garlic
- Whole grains
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Nuts
Viruses and bacteria are less likely to affect you if you have great immunity. Boost your immune system with the right lifestyle, balanced diet rich in phytochemicals personalized for your health needs. Consuming these foods in the short term may not help. Eat immune booster foods over a long period of time for a better immune system and develop resistance to infections and diseases.
Coronavirus: Basic hygiene tips
Read about some basic health and hygiene tips to help you stay safe and healthier.
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water
- Use an alcohol-based hand rub each time you cough, sneeze or touch any droplets. There is a likelihood of transmitting the virus through infected droplets.
- Follow good hygiene. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Wash hands immediately.
- Keep at least a 1-metre distance (3 feet gap) between someone with signs of respiratory problems. It could be even a simple cough and cold. It is better to stay safe, rather than to be sorry later.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth or face. Our hands touch many surfaces and could pick up the virus and transfer it to our body through mouth, eyes or nose.
- Avoid going to public places or gatherings, especially if you are a senior citizen, or have diabetes, heart problems or lung disease.
- Stay indoor as far as possible to stay safe.
If you follow these basic guidelines, we can take steps to safeguard our health and ultimately eradicate the virus.
Pallavi Pinge is a Clinical Nutritionist and Dietitian | Content Director & Editor for health websites | has a passion for digital health and enjoys promoting health and wellness. She’s the founder and director of Ambrosia Wellness, where she provides personalized nutrition counseling, education, and coaching to individuals with various health conditions. You can follow her on her social media channels below to stay tuned in with the latest in health and wellness | Health Blog | Contact her for appointments |
