Proper diet plays a key role in the fight against Covid-19 according to the advice by Kenya Ministry of Health Chief Administration Secretary, Dr. Rashid Aman.

Food facilitates the repair of worn-out tissues and can reduce the rate of inflammation, which is a major outcome when the body is attacked by Coronavirus.

Taking a healthy diet that includes a variety of different food groups builds immunity, prevents diseases and maintains good health, he added ‘I urged all to embrace consumption of diversified diet because no single food contains all the nutrients needed by our bodies and meeting all the nutrient requirements will boost the immune system to prevent and fight diseases including COVID-19.

Going by the statistics that we have been providing, more males than females have been infected with COVID-19 and probably its time that re-evaluated their dietary habits and lifestyles by consuming healthy diets including vegetables and fruits daily.

Fruits and vegetables are important in boosting immunity and contribute to disease prevention and healing.

“Other antioxidant that is important in boosting immunity is Vitamin E with its major dietary sources including vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, spinach and broccoli.

A adopt a healthy lifestyle by reducing consumption of highly refined, processed foods, sweets, sugar-sweetened/flavoured drinks or beverages which all have high amounts of unhealthy fats, sugar and salt.

People should also avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol and engage in regular physical activity saying moderate-intensity exercise has immune-boosting benefits that help our bodies fight infections, including COVID-19.

“Adults should aim at 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity in at least 5 days a week that is running, walking, cycling, farming, aerobic exercises, dancing, hula hooping, rope skipping, household chores and children playing among other activities.