Getting infected with the Covid-19 virus followed by a full recovery is not the closing chapter but what follows later is of equal concern. While many of us are successfully able to knock out the acute phase of this infection but long-term health implications post sickness and returning to normalcy are not easy for some of us.

So, whenever we go through an infection, the defensive mechanism of the body which we define as immunity or immune system gets activated and fights with the attacking microbes, viruses, or bacteria and as a result, we witness symptoms of sickness such as fever, body ache, sore throat, cough, cold, etc. That is, our body goes through a period of crisis with an increased workload.

When it comes to Covid-19 viral infection, owing to the severity of some variants; adequate diet, rest, and proper care following an acute phase of infection becomes even more pivotal. According to an article published by Nature, Similar to post-acute viral syndromes described in survivors of other virulent coronavirus epidemics, there are increasing reports of persistent and prolonged effects after acute COVID-19. For this reason, COVID-19 is now recognized as a multi-organ disease with a broad spectrum of manifestations.

In compliance with CDC experts, long-term health consequences of severe Covid 19 infection, as well as hospitalizations, include extreme fatigue, problems with thinking and judgment, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is the condition that develops in a person in response to major frightening or traumatic events. Moreover, isolation, lack of access to healthcare, and negative economic situation have further retrogressed the long-term Covid 19 complications.

Thereupon, for an efficacious Post Covid Care regimen one should be opting for protein-rich foods majorly as they aid in muscle mass production, tissue repair, and regeneration as well as strengthening the immune system. Fish, chicken, lentils, beans, egg whites, nuts and seeds, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese are copious sources of protein. Getting your daily dose of minerals and vitamins by consuming seasonal fruits and veggies either steamed or in the form of salads is easier for our bodies to absorb from natural food sources than from supplements. Sugary and fatty stuff is a big no and continue with sour foods such as citrus fruits, tamarind, olives, etc. as they help in better digestion, absorption and have an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effect which is much needed at this time. Stay away from any particular diets, weight-loss diets, or intermittent fasting. This is not the time. Instead, it is advisable to go for customized meal plans as per your health status and physical activity. Hydration is crucial as fluids help in removing the toxins from the body. Warm water and other warm beverages are preferable. Coconut water is an excellent choice. Indulge in mild physical activity like stretching exercises and breathing exercises to improve lung function with regular intervals of adequate rest. Remember not to overexert yourself and of course no compromise with a sound sleep.

Energy is what our body genuinely needs after battling with Covid 19 infection and making rightful food choices are the only way to help it through the healing and recovery process.

Check out this article published by the leading national news daily in Oman:
https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1106563/oman/good-post-covid-care-critical-for-fast-recovery