According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if you are sick, you should use foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins D and C and zinc for rapid recovery. Eating foods rich in these specific nutrients is very important even if you have Covid-19 infection. For faster recovery, here is a list of foods that should be avoided because they increase inflammation and disrupt the healing process, according to The Times.
Packaged and processed foods
If you have Covid-19 infection, foods high in sodium, additives, added sugars and preservatives are the last things you should use. These foods are known to cause inflammation and can interfere with the healing process.
Excessive inflammation also increases the burden on the immune system and puts you at greater risk for disease, so you should not use chips and other similarly packaged foods that unpleasantly store large amounts of sodium.
Red Meat
Red meat, whether or not you have coronary heart disease, should not be eaten often because it is high in saturated fat, which causes inflammation. Instead, eat foods that are high in unsaturated fats. Avocados, olive oil, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, are high in unsaturated fats. Even for protein, you can choose plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils.
Fried foods
Fried foods are high in fat and are often consumed in excess. These foods can disrupt some of the body’s functions. Fried foods negatively affect the gut microbiome and suppress the function of the immune system, as well as increase bad cholesterol, which increases the risk of various cardiovascular diseases.
Sugary drinks
Sugar added to beverages causes inflammation in the body. You should avoid sugary drinks while following an anti-inflammatory diet. Say a big no to fizzy drinks and soft drinks to help your body heal.
Spicy foods
It is recommended to avoid spicy foods when you have a cold, cough, flu and even if you have coronary heart disease because spicy foods irritate the throat and cause more coughing. If you have congestion, eat soup and hot drinks to clear your sinuses and go for soft drinks.
