Covid-19’s spread across our globe has created a lot of stress on our society and has been particularly concerning for our older population.  While we await a vaccine, government agencies have stressed the importance of things such as frequent handwashing, wearing a mask, and social distancing as effective tools to slow it’s spread.  In addition to these actions, good nutrition and a healthy, balanced diet has always, and will continue to be foundational in building strong minds, bodies, and immune systems. 

One of our best defenses against illness, including and beyond Covid-19, is what we eat.  The CDC has published healthy eating tips that are helpful in building a nutritious lifestyle in the age of Covid-19 and beyond.

Healthy Eating Tips

1. Add healthy fats.  Good sources of health fats include olive oil, nuts, seeds, certain types of fish, and avocados.  Guacamole, anyone?
2. Cut the sodium.  Sodium increases blood pressure, which raises the risk for heart disease and stroke. Avoid processed and prepackaged food, which can be full of hidden sodium.  I have personally found that scratch cooking allows me to control how much sodium goes into the meals I eat, and often doesn’t take much longer to prepare than prepackaged food.
3. Bump up your fiber.  Fiber keeps you regular, helps you feel fuller longer, and helps control blood sugar and lowers cholesterol levels.  Pile on the fresh fruit, veggies, and beans!!
4. Aim for a variety of colors on your plate. More colors means more vitamins and minerals. 

Click here for the original article published on the CDC website.