PRECAUTIONS AGAINST COVID-19-June-10

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST COVID-19

10/06/2020 Issue: 57

Boosting the Immune System with Foods against COVID-19

The outbreak of the new Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) poses unprecedented challenges and threats. Unfortunately, older, weaker and comorbid individuals are known to be at higher risk among those whose COVID-19 diagnosis is positive. It becomes even more important to take measures to keep older individuals safe and healthy during this pandemic. Daily preventive measures such as hand washing, avoiding contact with sick individuals and good hygiene are powerful ways to reduce the risk for viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. One of the most important ways to stay healthy is to adopt habits that boost immunity (defense mechanism). Anti-inflammatory strategy through nutrients or drugs is a viable option for COVID-19 management. Besides the age-related micronutrient deficiency (vitamin-mineral), an individual's nutritional status affects the risk, clinical course and outcomes of COVID-19 infection.

Malnourished individuals become more susceptible to current risks, so various nutritional recommendations are recommended to make individuals more resistant to coronavirus or other viruses. It is possible to summarize these suggestions under 5 titles.

1) Choosing low-carb and low-fat nutrition models

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a long-term healthy diet, may now be more important than ever. This is possible through the selection of low-carb foods, a diet that provides the basic recommendation and also keeps your blood sugar and body weight under control. Studies have shown that chronic health conditions such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of infection and death. Individuals should have low-sugar and low-fat foods rich in whole grains. Thus, general health conditions can be well supported.

2) Choosing foods to strengthen the immune system

It is a proven fact that good health and nutrition go hand in hand. Since the elderly are more sensitive to coronavirus, eating rich in certain vitamins and minerals can create an immune wall against viruses. Including beta-carotene, vitamin C and E and zinc-rich fruits and vegetables is an important nutritional strategy in the daily diet. While no food or supplement can “treat” or even 100% prevent a virus such as COVID-19, some foods have been shown to help boost immunity during this process.

Blueberries contain a type of flavonoid called anthocyanin, which has antioxidant properties that can help boost the immune system. Researchers have shown that those who eat foods rich in flavonoids are less likely to develop upper respiratory infections or colds.

Turmeric helps strengthen the immune system by increasing the body's immune regulating capacity due to its ingredient called curcumin.

Broccoli is an important source of vitamin C. In addition, it has a strong antioxidant effect thanks to its compound called sulforafan. It increases the production of white blood cells, which is the key to fighting infections.

Sweet potatoes are a good source of beta-carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A and help support the immune system and gut health.

Spinach is also known as superfood thanks to its high folate, vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, magnesium and iron content. Nutrients in spinach increase immune function and provide the nutrients necessary for cell division and DNA repair in the body.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation and reduce sore throat.

Garlic; It contains a variety of compounds, including allicin, which has antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. It strengthens the immune system during the cold and flu season.

Green tea contains antioxidants called polyphenols, which are effective fighters for infection.

Oil seeds are a rich source of vitamin E. Vitamin E supports immunity similar to other antioxidants.

Citrus fruits are a very good source of vitamin C. They increase the production of white blood cells, which is the key to fighting infections.

3) Ensuring adequate water consumption

In order to keep the mucous membranes moist and further reduce colds and flu, older individuals are recommended to consume 8-9 glasses of water daily. If there is not enough water consumption due to the weak feeling of thirst, foods such as soup, milk, green tea, and homemade fresh fruit juice can be recommended additionally.

4) consuming foods rich in vitamin C and E

Vitamin C has been proven to have an immune-boosting effect for children, adults and the elderly. Fruits such as oranges, kiwi, strawberries are rich in vitamin C and should be included in their diet. In addition, vegetables such as eggplant, pepper, beet, spinach and cauliflower are known to be very rich in vitamin C and support immunity. Some research has proven that vitamin E is vital for maintaining the overall health of the elderly, including immunity. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can protect against various infections, bacteria and viruses. It is important to add oily seeds such as almonds, peanut butter, sunflower seeds and nuts to the diet in order to meet daily vitamin E requirements.

5) To increase the quality and taste of the diet with spices

Some spices that increase immunity include garlic, ginseng, cumin, turmeric and ginger. It is recommended that individuals include it in their diet by adding it to their food or in the form of tea. Spices are known to both contribute to strengthening the gut health and immune system and to increase the flavor of the food.

It is possible to benefit from health effects with conscious consumption of foods. However, it will not be a correct idea that nutrients can be used in the treatment of coronavirus infections. It can be mentioned that nutrients that support immunity and have positive effects on general health and increase the body's resistance to diseases. Therefore, healthy and balanced nutrition is of special importance in this period.

Research Assistant Pelin Cin
Faculty of Health Sciences

Nutrition and Dietetics Department

Coronavirus and Crises the Final Curtain of Europe

After many disasters and hardships, man feels the need to make the same comment: “we have left the worst behind.” Perhaps this is because of the urge to think that the worst is now behind us and look to the future with hope. Europe's last decade has been repeated almost every two years. In the early 2000s, the EU went full throttle in integration and deepening, first shaken by the financial crisis, and then into a spiral of problems ranging from the refugee problem to Brexit. The crisis began with the new outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), which has been taking effect globally for nearly four months. Members such as Italy, Spain and France in particular have perhaps experienced bad days that will never be forgotten. However, the EU's response on the basis of the crisis has not satisfied almost any side like other recent problems.

Assist Prof. Cemal Ertürk
IKU Deputy Head of Department of International Relations
Global Political Trends Unit (GPoT)

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T.C. Presidency;

- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in a speech after the Presidential Cabinet meeting, announced the decisions taken in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here for detailed information…

This Journal was prepared by the General Secretariat with the contribution of the Directorate of Information System and Technologies.