Vegan and vegetarian diets may heighten susceptibility to COVID-19, new study suggests.
Revamped Article:
Here's the skinny on veggie diets and how they can impact your resistance to old man COVID.
First things first, let's get this straight: Vegetarians, due to their dietary choices, may face a higher risk of catching the virus, according to Almaty.tv, citingvesti.ru. Why? Simply put, a lack of animal products means a dearth of vital vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that play a crucial role in boosting immunity.
Now, you might be thinking, "But, hey, plants provide all the nutrients I need, right?" Well, not entirely. It's a common misconception that plants are enough to keep our bodies running smoothly. Without the intake of proteins, self-cell destruction and organ function disruptions may occur. And while we're at it, vegetarians skip out on crucial nutrients like vitamins B2 and B12, which are vital for blood formation, nervous and digestive system functionality, and maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes.
Now, Dr. Natalia Pugacheva, a dietologist at the personalized medicine clinic of Sechenov University, has some advice for veggie enthusiasts: "People following a vegan or vegetarian diet need to be mindful of deficiencies in several substances, primarily vitamin B12, which is tricky to find in plant-based products, along with vitamin D, iron, calcium, and iodine."
But fear not, fellow vegetarians! By following a few simple tweaks to your diet and lifestyle, you can lower the risk of deficiencies and boost your immune system.
Let's start with vitamin B12. This essential nutrient is hard to come by in plant-based products, so it's ideal to introduce fortified plant-based milk, cereals, and meat substitutes into your diet. Don't hesitate to take supplements if necessary.
When it comes to vitamin D, you'll want to focus on getting enough sunlight, especially during winter or in regions with limited sunshine. If that's not possible, opt for vitamin D-fortified foods like plant-based milk and cereals to maintain optimal levels.
Iron is another vital nutrient that vegetarians should be keen on incorporating into their diets. You can boost your iron levels by consuming iron-rich plant sources such as beans, lentils, and leafy greens like spinach and kale. Pro tip: Pair iron-rich foods with citrus fruits or bell peppers to boost absorption.
For calcium, focus on consuming fortified plant-based milk, dark leafy greens (kale, spinach), tofu, and fortified cereals. If dietary intake is insufficient, consider calcium supplements.
Last but not least, iodized salt and iodine-rich seaweed like kelp or wakame can help you maintain adequate iodine levels.
Now, let's recap: A well-balanced vegetarian diet should consist of healthy plant-based foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. But don't forget to avoid processed and high-sugar foods to ensure overall health.
Keep in mind that staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy gut, getting regular exercise, and minimizing stress are all essential components to a strong immune system.
So, there you have it! By making these dietary changes and pairing them with a healthy lifestyle, vegetarians can reduce their risk of nutrient deficiencies and better protect themselves from coronavirus infection.Think of it as adding armor to your healthy immune system!
- Incorporating nutrients like vitamin B12, often hard to find in plant-based products, becomes crucial for vegetarians to boost their immunity and maintain healthy skin, mucous membranes, and overall body functions.
- To ensure a balanced vegetarian diet that supports optimal health and wellness, it is advisable to consume fortified plant-based milk, cereals, and meat substitutes, along with iron-rich plant sources, and calcium-rich foods, while also considering supplements when necessary.
