Many of us have had to self-isolate or self-quarantine in the recent past because of the Covid-19 outbreak. If you are currently self-quarantined for various reasons including testing positive or travelling, one primary area of focus should be your diet. Eating healthy foods during quarantine is important in order to maintain excellent health and immune function. As a result, following proper dietary guidelines is still the best approach to meet your food and nutrition goals while in isolation and stay healthy.
Essential Tips on Food and Nutrition
Here are some food and nutrition tips that will help you maintain a healthy diet through your self-quarantine period:
- Fix a Routine For Eating
Even though you are not going out or have feelings of stress and anxiety in this period, you must fix a schedule for your meals. One of the primary requirements for a healthy and balanced diet to be effective is eating on time.
Plan your menu in advance and prepare your meals to stay on track. You can even make use of food tracker apps that also suggest healthy foods that you should eat. The most important thing to keep in mind is to avoid snacking even though it can be extremely tempting when you are stuck at home all day.
2. Eat Home-Cooked Food
3. Eat a Lot of Grains
Whole grains are an integral part of a healthy diet during quarantine. You can choose from a variety of grains like millet, oats and quinoa if you wish to avoid rice. You can purchase them in large quantities and store them as well. Healthy grains have an added benefit. They keep you feeling fuller for longer as they are rich in fibre.
They make sure that your blood sugar levels remain healthy. They also keep you satiated for longer, allowing you to stick to healthy food during quarantine and not get tempted by foods rich in sugar and fat.
4. Include Legumes in Your Diet
Legumes are the richest source of plant-based proteins. Proteins keep you feeling energetic. They also keep you feeling fuller for longer. An advantage of plant-based proteins like legumes is that they are easier on your tummy. So, even when you are under the weather or experiencing Covid-19 symptoms, you will be able to digest them easily. Some of the best legumes to include in your balanced diet are legumes, pinto beans, white beans, black beans and chickpeas.
5. Eat as Much Fresh Produce as Possible
Getting fresh fruits and vegetables delivered to your home is an option today. So, even if you do not have the option of making runs to the grocery store, you can still include these healthy foods in your diet during quarantine.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds. They are pivotal in increasing your immunity, which is the most important thing during these times. They also contain antioxidants that boost the immune system and keep your body free from any toxin damage. To maintain a healthy diet free from sugary foods, stock up on bananas, berries, watermelons and other fruits of your choice. They are a great alternative when you have those sweet cravings. You can also prepare shakes and smoothies with fresh produce when you want a refreshing and healthy beverage.
6. Load up on Healthy Fats
To complete your balanced diet, add a good amount of healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help keep your metabolism up. They also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial when you are in quarantine. Some of the best sources of healthy fats are avocados, peanut butter and nuts. Fish and meat also give you a rich source of healthy fats. The added benefit of some foods like peanut butter is that they are delicious. They can instantly add a lot of flavour to your healthy diet.
7. Indulge in Some Comfort
Being self-quarantined induces a lot of stress and anxiety. So, as important as it is to eat healthy foods & take care of your food and nutrition, you also need something for your mind. Comfort foods like chocolate or any comforting beverage like coffee or tea are certainly welcome in your healthy diet for your quarantine. Just ensure that you keep a check on the consumption. But, you do not have to deny yourself treats entirely.
Conclusion
Unhealthy eating habits and foods can have a negative impact on your immune system as well as your physical and mental health. However, by following some of these food and nutrition tips & eating healthy foods during quarantine, you can stay in good shape and strengthen your immune system to combat the coronavirus.
Make sure that you not only work towards your physical fitness but also take care of your mental health during this difficult time. Here is wishing you a healthy and safe quarantine!
