Therapeutic Nutrition During COVID-19 Infection

Therapeutic Nutrition for a Person Infected with Coronavirus

Coronavirus has become one of the viruses that affected the health of many people around the world. It may cause a wide range of symptoms that vary in severity from one person to another. In this article, we will learn about coronavirus, its symptoms, how to deal with it, and the role of therapeutic nutrition for a person infected with coronavirus.

This virus can affect people of different ages, and many patients may recover from it, especially when they follow medical instructions, rest, and maintain proper nutrition. Vaccines have also helped reduce the severity of the disease and complications in many cases by supporting the immune response.

Coronavirus may be more dangerous for some groups, such as older adults and people with chronic diseases, including:

• Patients with high blood pressure.
• Patients with diabetes.
• Cancer patients.
• Patients with chronic respiratory diseases.

Coronavirus is an infectious virus that spreads from one person to another through droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, talking, or breathing, especially in closed or crowded places.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

Coronavirus symptoms vary from one person to another. They usually appear within approximately 2 to 14 days after infection. Symptoms may be mild or severe depending on the person’s health condition.

The most common symptoms of coronavirus include:

• Fever and high temperature.
• Cough.
• Shortness of breath.
• Joint and muscle pain.
• Headache.
• Loss of smell or taste.
• Nasal congestion or runny nose.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea.

Coronavirus Treatment

Coronavirus treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s health condition. Therefore, a doctor should be consulted to determine the appropriate treatment. In mild cases, treatment may focus on relieving symptoms, resting, drinking fluids, and monitoring the condition.

The doctor may prescribe some medications depending on the case, such as:

• Medications that help reduce fever and relieve pain according to the doctor’s recommendation.
• Cough-relieving medications or bronchodilators if needed.
• Other medications determined by the doctor when complications or a secondary infection are present.
• In case of severe symptoms, such as severe shortness of breath or low oxygen levels, the patient should go to the hospital immediately, especially older adults and people with chronic diseases.

Therapeutic Nutrition for a Person Infected with Coronavirus

Therapeutic nutrition is considered a supportive factor in maintaining the health of a person infected with coronavirus, as it helps support the immune system and provides the body with the nutrients it needs during illness and recovery.

Doctors and therapeutic nutrition specialists recommend that a person infected with coronavirus follow a set of dietary tips, including:

• Eating more vegetables, fruits, and legumes such as beans and lentils.
• Eating nuts and whole grains such as corn, wheat, rice, and potatoes.
• Focusing on protein sources such as fish, eggs, meat, poultry, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
• Drinking enough water to reduce the risk of dehydration and support body functions during illness.
• Reducing fats, sugars, and salt.
• Avoiding fast food and soft drinks.
• Stopping smoking and avoiding alcohol.

References

1. What is the meaning of coronavirus (COVID-19)?
2. The symptoms of coronavirus
3. The treatment of coronavirus
4. Good nutrition for a person who has coronavirus