Eating a healthy diet is extremely crucial during COVID-19 pandemic as what we eat or drink affects our body’s ability to prevent, fight and recover from infections and diseases. While there are no foods or dietary supplements or vaccine available yet to prevent or cure COVID-19 infection, healthy eating habits can help in supporting and boosting the immune system. For young children, a balanced diet is essential for growth and development, whereas, for older people, a healthy diet can help to ensure more active lives.
Gurukul World School, one of the best CBSE schools in Mohali, is sharing six tips for maintaining a healthy diet during COVID-19 pandemic.
Fruits and Vegetables
Every day, eat a variety of foods including a mix of whole grains like wheat, maize, and rice, plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, legumes like lentils and beans. For snacks, consume fresh fruits and unsalted nuts.
Reduce the Intake of Salt
Limit on the salt intake to 5 grams, i.e. equivalent to one teaspoon a day. When cooking or preparing foods, use salt sparingly, and reduce the usage of salty sauces such as soy sauce, stock, or fish sauce.
Consume Fats and Oils in Moderate Amounts
Replace processed ghee and butter with healthier fats like olive, soy, sunflower, or corn oil while cooking and try to avoid processed and fried foods that contain industrially-produced trans-fat. Steam or boil instead of frying food when cooking.
Cut on Sugar Intake
Cut on the consumption of sweets and sugary or fizzy drinks, flavoured water, ready-to-drink tea, and coffee or flavoured milk drink. Instead, choose fresh homemade fruit juice and avoid giving sugary foods to children.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drinking enough water and keeping your body hydrated is crucial for optimal health. Water is essential for proper body functioning and also helps in brain function. Limit your intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and the consumption of excess calories.
Gurukul World School, one of the top 10 schools in Mohali, recommends and encourages everyone to consume a healthy and balanced diet for a stronger immune system, especially during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Info Source: WHO.int
