Foods to Avoid for a Faster Recovery from COVID-19

Understanding why paying close attention to your diet is crucial when battling a dangerous infection like COVID-19.

During any illness, following a proper routine, taking medications as prescribed, and maintaining a healthy diet are essential. Nutrition plays a vital role because certain foods can worsen a patient's condition.

One of the most common questions asked by nutritionists today is: what should you avoid and what can you eat when infected with COVID-19? Medical experts agree that stimulating drinks top the list of foods to avoid. Energy drinks, strong tea, and coffee can significantly reduce your chances of quick recovery. Caffeine causes dehydration, so it is best to replace these with plain water during treatment.

"Many people infected with COVID-19 feel fatigued and dizzy but try to boost their energy by drinking energy drinks and coffee, which stimulate the nervous system. This approach actually reduces the body's ability to heal faster. It is important not to ignore the body's need for rest, as rest is crucial during COVID-19 recovery. Therefore, coffee and energy drinks can have a negative effect," explains dietitian Elena Solomatina.

Carbonated soft drinks are also recommended to be avoided during recovery. These beverages contain high amounts of sugar, which slows down the healing process. Soda can trigger complex inflammations, putting extra strain on the immune system.

If you regularly consumed these 'forbidden' drinks before contracting COVID-19, try substituting them with vitamin-rich alternatives such as berry fruit drinks, herbal teas, or freshly squeezed juices.

It is also advisable to limit all sugar-containing products. While sweets often help improve mood and combat depression, during the pandemic, sugary desserts can cause blood sugar spikes and other complications.

"COVID-19 has shown us that people who never had diabetes before can experience a rise in blood sugar levels. Oxygen fights the virus by using glucose from the heart, liver, and muscles, which fuels inflammatory 'storms'," a physician explains.

Salt, often paired with sugar, should also be minimized. High-salt foods can cause blood circulation problems, preventing immune proteins from quickly reaching infection sites.

"If a person consumes fewer fruits and vegetables and more red meat daily, especially fried, it leads to inflammation and slow digestion, diverting the immune system's attention," notes the dietitian.

Contrary to some opinions, it is best to avoid fast food during illness. Cheeseburger lovers risk harming their cardiovascular system when sick. Similarly, fatty meats, bacon, and sausages should be limited.

Instead, doctors recommend embracing antioxidant-rich fresh vegetables and fruits, seafood, lightly salted red fish, and berries.

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