Improving diet quality one of best defences against COVID-19

COVID-19 is spreading rapidly in the country, especially with the new variant Omicron, and one of the best defences against this disease is improving diet quality.

Hamad Medical Corporation Clinical Dietitian Karla Monique Lorenzon Padrelanan told The Peninsula: “It is important to remember moderation, balance, and variety, with emphasis on nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and whole grains, and avoiding excess sugar, salt and fat intake.”

“Also worth mentioning are foods that contain probiotics like yoghurt, laban, and labneh to help strengthen digestive system; omega-3 rich foods like oily fishes, nuts, seeds, and avocado; antioxidants which are abundant in a variety of colourful vegetable and fruits, and in numerous natural herbs and spices as well,” she added.

“Risk factors for having a noncommunicable diseases are having poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco, alcohol, chronic stress, and anger,” Padrelanan explained.

She also disclosed that there is no food that can prevent an illness or fully support the immune system. 

The immune system protects against viruses and diseases, it also produces antibodies to kill pathogens which is an organism that causes disease. The Clinical Dietitian advised that “moderation, balance and variety are the key” to have a strong immune system and “one must be consistent in order to maintain a healthy diet.”

Among her recommendations to have a healthy diet every meal is to make sure that half of the plate consists of fruits and vegetables, and rest is equally divided by whole grains, lean protein sources. Also, shifting to low-fat or fat-free milk and dairy products or alternatives. 

“A healthy diet also starts with the grocery items. Especially in this time of pandemic, it is important to plan ahead of time and make a list before making a purchase. Give your kitchen a healthy makeover,” she said.

Moreover, she concluded that “the way our immune system is designed is complicated and therefore is affected by several factors, not just diet. Aside from a healthy diet, it is also important to have adequate sleep, exercise and low stress.”