Loss of Appetite is a popular COVID symptom
Loss of appetite is a common symptom associated with COVID. The decline may be gradual and difficult to detect at first. Many people find it difficult to eat and drink enough while recovering from COVID 19. However, proper nutrition is crucial for the restoration of strength and support of the immune system. It also provides the energy required to resume normal activity.
Here’s what the expert says
Dr. Joydeep Ghosh, Internal Medicine, Fortis advises, “If you're experiencing appetite loss or taste changes as a result of COVID-19, there are some things you can do to help yourself eat better. While your appetite is suppressed, try to eat a high-protein, high-energy diet. This is referred to as a nutritious diet. It ensures that you get enough nutrition for recovery while also preventing muscle and weight loss. When recovering from COVID-19, some people notice a change in taste and smell.”
Your taste can change after COVID in different ways:
- Complete loss of taste and smell for a number of weeks
- A bland taste from foods
- Metallic or salty taste from foods
Drink water throughout the day
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. To get more nutrients, drink milk-based beverages or alternatives to unsweetened milk, such as soy milk. Whole-body dehydration frequently coexists with COVID-19 and may be a common underlying cause of phenotypic conditions like advanced and a high BMI that are linked to a higher risk of disease. Keep an eye on your weight and look for signs of weight loss, such as loose clothing.
Keep your weight under check
Obese people are more prone than people of normal weight to suffer from heart disease, lung illness, and diabetes, all of which are independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. They are also more likely to develop metabolic syndrome, which is characterised by poor blood sugar, fat, or both levels as well as potentially high blood pressure.
“Even if you are overweight and attempting to lose weight, now is not the time to do so. Maintain your current weight until you are fully recovered. Once you've recovered and your weight has stabilised, you can resume the above-mentioned healthy, balanced diet,” says Dr. Ghosh.
Eat a nutritious diet
Nutritious food is vital for your recovery. You should continue to eat even if the food doesn't taste the same. Choose foods that appeal to you and continue to experiment with new foods. As you recover, your taste preferences may change. Additionally, routinely eat produce that is high in beta carotene, ascorbic acid, and other vital vitamins. To strengthen the body's resistance to COVID infections, some foods like mushrooms, tomatoes, bell peppers, and green vegetables like broccoli and spinach are also ideal choices.