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Nutritional Guidelines For Recovery From Covid-19

Check out the guidelines for those recovering from Covid-19 infection. A good diet promotes faster recovery.

Patient & the family should know that Covid is an inflammatory condition that can have lasting effects for up to six-eight months after discharge affecting different organs, especially the liver and lungs. Recovery will be slow & steady.

Essentials to be kept in Mind for Covid 19:

Key Nutrients to Track for Optimum Nutrition

Protein

It is recommended to be at 1.2-1.3 g/kg per day; increasing the supplementation of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) to 50 per cent, to prevent muscle loss and enhance the strength of respiratory muscles. Including pulses, legumes, peanuts, milk, yogurt, cheese, soy, eggs, fish, and chicken, will help. Protein supplement in form of powder is the ideal choice, at least for the first two-three weeks.

Fresh curd, Cottage cheese or thoroughly cooked eggs should be given depending upon meal preference and digestive function. Protein should be individually depending on the individuals nutritional status, physical activity level and digestive tolerance.

Carbohydrate

Limit intake to 100-150g per day. The usage of carbohydrates leads to the production of equal carbon dioxide (called respiratory quotient) which must be avoided to decrease respiratory distress.

If the patient is diabetic, monitor closely for episodes of glucose highs and lows and the medication needs to be adjusted. Persistent high glucose is an effect of infection and can also delay recovery. Opt for pulses, dairy, and vegetables over grains. Prefer fruits over fruit juices.

Fat

Increase of fat can be increased. Give priority to the use of medium-chain fatty acids. Also, increase the proportion of omega-3 fatty acids. They play a major role in immune responses. They reduce inflammation. Coconut oil, butter, ghee, nuts, MCT oil can be used. Olive oil, rice bran oil, groundnut oil can also be used for cooking. Try Oats-Jaggery cake with different oils & nuts in rotation.

Vitamins/minerals

Routine supplements of multivitamins and minerals should be taken with emphasis on adequate vitamin B/C/D, zinc, and selenium. Iron deficiency or anemia must be treated.

Immuno-nutrients

There are several types of immunonutrients, such as arginine and glutamine which support both the immune and the digestive system. Curcumin (found in turmeric and as capsules) helps aid recovery. A warm ‘Haldi milk’ is a great option.

Probiotics

Add yoghurt, curd intake to diet, Laassi is a good option. The alteration of healthy gut bacteria is due to the increase in gut permeability. This occurs as a result of infection as well as treatment with antibiotics.

Fluids and salts

Thin buttermilk, soups, coconut water (unless there is a potassium restriction), salted lemon water and ORS can be used. For cardiac and kidney patients, the volume of fluid and sodium, along with other electrolytes might have to be restricted. Your physician will advise you on the total fluid intake for the day.

Sample Menu with Options for Recovery

Note: Nutritional recommendations will depend on physical activity and disease-related symptoms, such as Diabetes Mellitus and kidney failure. In this case consult your doctor.

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