Written By: Longjam Dineshwori | Updated : April 20, 2020 6:13 PM IST
Micronutrients found in fruits, nuts, vegetables and wholegrains can enhance immune function and prevent infection.
Strengthening the immune system is a focal point in preventing the novel coronavirus and eating a balanced diet coupled with a healthy lifestyle can give your immunity a boost, says National Institute of Nutrition (NIN).
The premier nutrition institute under the union health ministry recommends a balanced diet, comprising nutrient-rich vegetables, fruits, pulses, cereals and curd to boost the immune system. It said that micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and phytonutrients found in fruits, nuts, vegetables and wholegrains can enhance both native and adaptive immune function and prevent infection. In addition, micronutrients promote immune memory formation that helps prevent reinfection with the same pathogen, explained NIN Director Dr. Hemalatha R.
Among other benefits, micronutrients help scavenge toxins produced in large quantities in the body during infection and immune response, and increase beneficial probiotic bacteria in the intestine.
The director also cited some fruits and vegetables, which are rich sources of nutrients. These include fruits like papaya, guava, apple, grapes, mango, oranges, tangerines, lemons, sweet lime and gooseberries, all seasonal vegetables, including green leafy, and spices, legumes, and millets. She also suggested to include curd, flesh foods and fish as part of the balanced diet.
Curd helps improve gut health by regulating gut bacteria, and aids immune function and reduces inflammation, the Director said.
The institute has given its suggestions to the Centre on nutrition and immunity in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. Here are some important points listed in the dietary and lifestyle guidelines of the premier institute
Dr Hemalatha has some specific suggestions for people with diabetes or other chronic illnesses. People with diabetes are more susceptible to developing infections, including COVID-19, because of their weak immune system. The high blood sugar levels can weaken immune system defences in diabetics. Moreover, some diabetes-related health issues, such as nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the extremities, can increase their bodies' vulnerability to infection
For this high-risk groups, Dr Hemalatha said they should continue their regular medication and prescribed healthy dietary patterns. They should also do some physical activity and try to keep themselves stress-free during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additional information on nutrition, including dietary guidelines, is available at the NIN's website.
