As mentioned, a plant-based diet may aid recovery from COVID-19. In your eating plan, be sure to feature protein from non-meat sources, suggests Nicole Roach, RD, who works at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Examples of plant-based protein are nuts, seeds, nut butter, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and beans.
Prioritizing protein is important for keeping muscle mass intact when you’re likely cutting way back on physical activity, Roach says. Also, COVID-19 is a hypermetabolic state, which means your body is burning more fuel to speed you toward recovery, and if you don’t replace that fuel, it can lead to more fatigue.
“Often, we see those affected with COVID decrease their consumption due to shortness of breath or overall lack of appetite,” she adds. “If you are struggling to maintain your normal appetite during a COVID diagnosis, focus on protein.”
Animal sources are also an option, Roach says, and if that’s your only option, it’s not one to forgo given the pros of eating protein when ill.
“Another good staple is a protein shake, which will be easier to consume if you’re too tired to cook a meal,” Roach says.