Page 97 - FoodFocusThailand No.198 September 2022

SCOOP

4 types of food to consume when you have a long COVID

Vitamin D Vitamin D is the most frequently discussed Natural Forms of Vitamin C Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports
1micronutrient among nutrition experts for the 3immune health in people of all ages. Animal and human studies have found
management of COVID-19. This fat-soluble vitamin exerts that vitamin C may reduce oxidative stress, improve endothelial function to guard
an anti- inflammatory effect by suppressing overactivity of against heart disease, and support recovery from the common cold. Emerging
the immune system, according to newer and older research. research also demonstrates that giving vitamin C to people with COVID-19 may
In the body, vitamin D acts on angiotensin-converting support recovery and improvement during illness. Citrus fruits, spinach, papaya,
enzyme 2 (ACE 2), a protein receptor found in the lungs kiwi, tomatoes, mango, guava, and strawberries are foods that are high in
and fat tissue. The novel coronavirus binds to ACE 2 at the vitamin C, and we need to consume adequate amounts daily. Some patients
beginning of an infection, potentially leading to acute also experience a loss of smell or a change in taste following a COVID infection.
respiratory distress syndrome and severe illness in people These changes are usually temporary but can affect their nutrient intake. However,
with COVID-19. However, vitamin D interacts with the ACE patients can cope by adding intense flavors like spices or sharp flavors like citrus
2 receptors, potentially preventing the virus from binding to to increase their appetite.
them and reducing complications associated with COVID-19.
Vitamin D may also play a protective role and support the
healing of damaged tissues, primarily in the lungs. Luckily,
sunlight is our best source of vitamin D (80%), and we can
also get it from foods (20%) such as orange juice, milk, egg
yolks, tuna, and salmon. Patients who suspect they are
deficient should consult their doctor, who may advise them
to take a vitamin D supplement.

Zinc Zinc deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of infections
4and poorer outcomes in those with COVID-19. Research has shown that its
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the risk of heart disease,
may support eye health, and are essential for immune health. In COVID-19, zinc
may reduce the risk of getting a bacterial infection at the same time and decrease
the activity of the ACE 2 receptors, which are targets of the novel coronavirus. It
also protects the health of the lung tissue and may be a therapeutic additional
treatment for COVID-19. Studies on this are now underway. To treat zinc
deficiency, doctors may recommend taking zinc supplements. However, patients
must stick to the dose recommended and be careful not to take too much because
zinc is toxic in excess amounts.
Considering this information, it’s evident that eating is the most effective way
to help recover from post-COVID malnutrition and weakness. Try to consume
Energy Boosting Food COVID-19 patients foods that have anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties like those mentioned
2usually feel low on energy during and after recovering above, add starch to your diet to gain energy, and ensure that you get an adequate
from an infection. To increase energy levels, patients should amount of essential nutrients that support immune function.
include carbohydrates in the diet, such as potatoes, rice,
bread, pasta, or other starchy foods made with whole grains,
like whole oats and whole barley. These are high in fiber More Information Service Info C017
and provide energy at a slow yet consistent speed, which
is ideal for getting rid of fatigue from the long COVID.
Supermarket sliced white bread, and ready-to-eat meals เอกสารอ้างอิง / References
www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk/i-think-i-have-long-covid/your-road-to-recovery/eating-well/
are also a good source of energy and are more convenient www.bda.uk.com/resource/long-covid-and-diet.html
to buy, so they are quite acceptable during illness. www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/long-term-effects-of-coronavirus-long-covid/
www.henryford.com/blog/2022/07/what-to-eat-when-you-have-covid
www.food.ndtv.com/health/post-covid-diet-heres-what-you-should-eat-post-covid-
recovery-2445107
www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-to-eat-with-covid
SEP 2022 FOOD FOCUS THAILAND 97

23/8/2565 BE 20:28
94-97_Scoop_Long Covid.indd 97 23/8/2565 BE 20:28
94-97_Scoop_Long Covid.indd 97