Boost your immune system to avoid coronavirus

There is no doubt that there is a global scare being caused by the new coronavirus, COVID-19. The virus has already infected more than 108,000 people around the world and killed more than 3,800.

The disease spread is causing widespread anxiety as people are clearing shelves in supermarkets and stocking up on sanitary and alcohol-based supplies. With coronavirus continuing to spread, it is important to boost your system by eating immunity-supporting foods.

Dr Joy Callender, nutritionist, told THE STAR that there are various practices Jamaicans should employ to safeguard themselves against the deadly virus.

"Stay as healthy as you can possibly be. Eat well. The basis of your diet should be vegetables ... A minimum of three servings per day," the nutrition consultant said.

She also said that it is important to make fruits part of one's diet, and she recommends a minimum of three servings per day.

"Include fruit and vegetable smoothies. Brightly pigmented fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and keep your immune system functioning well," she advised.

Although low-carb diets can be beneficial for some people, one should not necessarily avoid all high-carb foods as they offer excellent health benefits and they are one of the main nutrients that the body needs. These include pears, almond, oats, and bananas.

"Add complex, high-fibre carbs, lean protein, and healthy fats. Supplements such as vitamin c and zinc shorten the duration of the common cold and could prove useful for other viruses," Dr Callender said.

In addition to proper dieting, Callender advises that people exercise, get adequate sleep, and stay hydrated.