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Covid-19 is still regarded as a global pandemic. But now there’s a new health concern to be worried about – Monkeypox. Even though this new virus is not as widely prevalent as the coronavirus, 1 in 5 Americans, according to a national survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, are worried about getting monkeypox. In fact, the World Health Organization says it might spread across the world, especially since a vaccine is not available. Due to this, it is wisest to follow precautionary measures, including a nutritious diet. A monkeypox diet is not only for better protection, but it can also help a person fight and recover from the virus.
So, here’s your guide to foods to include in your monkeypox diet
To find out about foods that can help in protecting against monkeypox by boosting immunity and can also help in recovery, Health Shots spoke to Deepti Lokeshappa, Msc Food Science and Nutrition, Senior Consultant-Clinical Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospital, Bengaluru.
Lokeshappa says, “As per the cases we have seen so far, the monkeypox symptoms are mild and can last 2-3 weeks. Its common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and backache. The sudden outbreak has terrified people, as it did with the coronavirus outbreak.”
She adds, “There are guidelines that can be followed to recover from the virus, but you should also take care of building immunity against it. A healthy diet can prevent many diseases, and here we suggest some foods that will help you prevent or recover from the virus.”
Here are 6 foods to include in your monkeypox diet:
1. Protein-rich food
Protein is considered the building blocks of the body. You should eat more protein to match your body’s rising demand because of the reduced immunity. It will strengthen immunity and aid in cell damage repair. Consuming soy, cottage cheese, sprouts, yogurt, seeds, nuts, lentils, and other protein rich foods has been beneficial for people suffering from monkeypox.
2. Eggs
Yes, eggs are a powerhouse of quality protein, but they contain so many other nutrients as well, which can improve your health significantly. Eggs are rich in nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, choline, iron, and folate, which can help improve muscle health, energy production, and immune system. In addition, selenium, which is an essential nutrient that protects the body from oxidative damage and infections.
3. Vitamin-C enriched fruits
A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C aids in the growth of white blood cells, which are essential to the immune system and aid in the body’s defense against disease and infection. The sources of vitamin C foods like lemon, orange, kiwi, strawberry, amla, papaya, cherries, and other fruits, will help in building immunity and maintaining cellular functions.
4. Mint
Mint is rich in nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin C, E, and A, and other minerals that help in preventing damage caused by free radicals (which could take a toll on your immunity). It also contains methanol and helps in relaxing muscles and digestive tracts. What’s more, it helps in treating common respiratory ailments like coughs, congestion, asthma, etc.
5. Basil leaves
Basil leaves are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant, and they have the power to boost your immune system. It is also proven to be beneficial for common flu symptoms.
6. Gut-healing probiotics
Adding gut-healing probiotics like garlic, onion, and banana will improve your overall health. You can also add raisins, curds, low fat paneer or anything that acts as a coolant to your diet.
What to avoid: You should avoid having spicy foods, items with too much chilli or junk food, which can disturb your digestion and health.
