Covid-19 Nutrition Tips
Over 2 years later, and this pandemic is still hitting people out of nowhere! Have you been a lucky avoider of the Covid-19 virus? If so, kudos to YOU. I’ve had my long dose of the sickness myself, and I struggled quite a bit. Over the past 2 years, I’ve been asked probably over 500 times the most recited question in history: “Are you experiencing any cough, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, or lost of taste and smell?” It got so monotonous hearing the same thing every single day making it easy to let my guard down even though I know I’m in a high-risk population (hello pregnancy!).
I thought I’d be a lucky avoider of the virus too, but 2 years after it became a thing, I finally got my Covid-19 surprise. I was shocked (somehow) by how much I struggled during those 2 solid weeks of feeling ill. My energy came back pretty quickly after about 5 days, but the plateau of constant congestion, sore throat, coughing seemed never-ending. And you know the very worst thing? Losing my taste! It can make eating hard, not enjoyable, isolating, and saddening when you can’t experience this wonderful centerpiece of our world with friends or family. There were some days when I felt hopeless and anxious thinking about the possibility of not being able to taste anything for a long time. I slowly began to get hints of flavor here and there, but I truly sympathize with those who can’t seem to get their sense of smell or taste back months after recovering. I’m here for you. During my super enjoyable 14 days of feeling miserable and reflecting on everything I counseled Covid-19 positive patients on in the hospital, I made a list of nutrition tips to not only survive Covid, but keep your body, soul, and mind healthy and thriving as best as possible.
Covid-19 Nutrition Survival Guide:
Get adequate calories in. Your body actually needs more calories to fight this virus and heal itself even though you’re not moving out of your bed. Crazy right?!
Focus on high protein foods. Remember your body is under a lot of stress. Grabbing a protein powder can be
Drink smoothies. Appetite is typically down, so sipping on a nutrient-packed smoothie is recommended each day (or multiple times a day if eating doesn’t sound good).
Ask yourself what kind of texture you’re in the mood for. If you can’t taste the flavors, focus on textures. Are you wanting something crunchy? Soft? Smooth? Creamy? Crispy? Chewy?
Eat small, frequent meals (5-6) throughout the day. This can be helpful to get your recommended calories and protein in if you have low appetite, have a small stomach, or just enjoy snacking more than 3 larger meals.
Make at least half your grains whole, meaning choosing whole grain foods (i.e. oats, brown rice, whole wheat bread or pasta, whole grain cereal, etc.) when able to ensure you’re going #2 at least once a day. Fiber helps keep us regular!
Don’t forget your fruits & veggies! These can be added to smoothies.
