COVID-19 and the search for immune system foods
Immune system foods – Coronavirus has caused people to seek miracle cures to boost our immune system. People are wanting to protect themselves and are searching for answers especially on how to prevent COVID-19 through diet and fluids. There is lots of misleading information on nutrition at present through media channels; some being drinking celery juice, turmeric shots, mushroom formula, cider vinegar and other remedies claiming to boost immunity. Supermarket shelves are also wiped out on Vitamin C and other vitamin and mineral supplements too.
The myth
However, there is no such concept as immune boosting foods and no single miracle foods and drinks that can cure and prevent Covid19. The immune system does an incredible job of defending you against disease – causing microorganisms. It has many processes which are out of our control. There are though some vitamins and minerals that do play a role in supporting our immune function such as Vitamin A & C.
Nutrition does play a role in optimising our health but perhaps we should look at whether our diet is providing us with all the nutrients we require instead of cutting out or adding foods, food groups and drinks and taking remedies.
Tips to optimise our health:
– Include a balanced varied diet of wholegrain carbohydrates and fibre, lean meats, eggs, fish and plant-based sources e.g. pulses, plenty of fruit and vegetables, small amounts of unsaturated fats e.g. olive oil and some dairy or fortified plant-based versions
– Plenty of fluids to ensure good hydration
– Consider Vitamin D supplements – 10 micrograms/day during autumn and winter months especially during this self-isolation phase as we are not getting out as much
– Exercise & fresh air
– Ensure good sleep and rest
– Seek advice and follow guidelines from governments, the NHS and public health authorities and avoid media channels and newspaper articles for misleading information.
You can find lots of good information about good nutrition on our Eat Better page.
Useful links:
Government coronavirus information
The Association of UK Dietitians
Blog written by
Gopika Chandratheva
Nutritionist
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