Nutritional advice against COVID-19

We are facing an unusual situation. The coronavirus pandemic has led the Spanish Government to declare a State of Alarm and given the situation, we are looking for solutions and establishing daily routines to make the hours at home pass more quickly.

But what happens to those who remain at home and suffer the symptoms of COVID-19?

On March 17, the Spanish Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the General Council of Official Colleges of Dietitians-Nutritionists published nutritional guidelines to follow for mild cases of coronavirus.

Despite the recommendations described in the aforementioned document, it was concluded that there is still no specific nutritional treatment for COVID-19.

Advice to assist in the treatment of mild COVID-19 patients at home

Those patients with mild coronavirus symptomatology can follow the following nutritional guidelines:

1. Maintain good hydration. Being well hydrated will help in case of cough, fever or secretions and, above all, it is recommended to alternate water with infusions or fat-free broths. In case of swallowing problems, sugar-free jellies can be used. This point is especially relevant in the elderly.
2. Eat at least 3 servings of fresh fruit a day and 2 servings of vegetables. They are a natural source of water and vitamins.
3. Consume legumes and whole grains as the basis of the diet that will allow maintaining an adequate intestinal rhythm.
4. Consume milk and fermented dairy products such as kefir or yogurt to maintain calcium intake and an adequate intestinal flora in case of taking antibiotics.
5. Maintain the recommended intake of meat, fish and eggs that corresponds to a healthy diet, giving priority to the consumption of fish and lean meats.
6. Season meals with aromatic herbs and seeds from the Mediterranean environment, cook with extra virgin olive oil and consume natural nuts and dried fruits.
7. Maintain a routine of physical activities, within the possibilities, and expose ourselves to the sun with the window open to maintain the vitamin D level.

To date, there is no documented evidence that there is any nutrient or food, including spices, vitamin supplements, minerals or probiotics, that prevents coronavirus infection.

Nevertheless, taking care of our diet is the first step in achieving the best possible state of health, being less susceptible to infection and, in the event of contracting the virus, being in a better position to overcome it.

On the other hand, we must avoid eating inadequately so as not to exacerbate other pathologies such as hypertension, obesity, overweight or diabetes.

Perhaps this situation that we have to live is a good opportunity to reflect on our eating habits and take up again the healthy recipes of “our grandmother” that for lack of time we have forgotten in the drawer.