What should you eat in Covid era to develop a stronger immune system

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immune, Covid era, Covid-19

Abu Dhabi - Experts say having the right, balanced eating habit - coupled with an active lifestyle - helps people fight the virus.

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Ashwani Kumar

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Published: Sun 13 Sep 2020, 1:11 AM

With the sharp spike in Covid-19 cases in recent days, the UAE Government has been warning residents against letting their guards down. Wearing masks, physical distancing and maintaining good hand hygiene top the list of anti-Covid measures, but there's another that must be prioritised: Eating healthy.
Health experts have reminded that having the right, balanced eating habit - coupled with an active lifestyle - helps people develop stronger immune systems to fight the virus.
Archana Baju, a clinical dietitian at Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, said people must make sensible choices when it comes to meals.
"No food can keep the coronavirus away. A nutritious balanced diet can build a better immune system and help one fight infectious diseases. Our immune system is complex. One single nutrient or food cannot build immunity," she said. "Every day, our body is exposed to harmful microbes. To fight against these microbes and infections, a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants plays a major role."

Baju also stressed on eating fresh food and home-cooked meals, instead of processed and frozen food. "People should avoid salty, sugary and oily food."
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Radhika Movvar, a dietitian at Ahalia Hospital, said that apart from a balanced diet, people must focus on exercise to keep their weight under control.

"In the past few months, I have been receiving lots of patients with issues of weight gain. Many have become overweight because of staying indoors and the new normal of work-from-home. So, other than a fresh and balanced diet, I stress on doing daily exercises, getting sound sleep, and adequate sunlight."

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com


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