The Covid-19 pandemic has been raging for several weeks and is particularly deadly among the vulnerable population (polypathological, very old and malnourished people). In view of the increased risk of undernutrition for this type of population, we will try to take care of the risks of undernutrition as quickly as possible in order to limit the risk factors of aggravation in the event of Covid-19 contamination. Despite this, all individuals are strongly advised to carefully monitor their nutrition and diets which may be impacted and deteriorate during the various confinements or in the event of Covid infection.
The importance of Vitamin D and Iron
Spanish researchers, whose work has just been published in the journal Nutrients, have studied the links between certain nutritional statuses and COVID-19. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) considers six vitamins (vitamins A, D, C, B9, B6, B12) and four minerals (copper, iron, selenium and zinc) to be essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. Scientists have reviewed the current state of knowledge regarding the impact of these nutrients on the functioning of the immune system and their potential role in the prevention or treatment of VIDOC-19. They then compiled the nutritional status of populations from published sources and an analysis of nutritional data from 10 European countries in order to assess the relationship between the nutritional status of the countries and the epidemiological data of COVID-19.
Good feeding habits to be taken during confinement
- As we know, livestock farming emits large quantities of CO2 and contributes to numerous environmental degradations: eutrophication, land use… All scientific studies are clear: if we want to reduce our impact on the planet, one of the priorities (along with the transformation of our transport and energy sources) is to change our diet, in particular by eating less meat and animal products. Today’s confinement is a perfect opportunity to take the plunge and develop good habits. There are many advantages: firstly, if you buy less meat, you will need to go shopping less often, since meat is often (with the exception of charcuterie) a perishable product that must be bought and eaten as fresh as possible. Then you’ll save money: with the difficult economic situation ahead, it’s always good to take it! And then, in a context where we are all forced to be even more sedentary than usual, we don’t need large quantities of proteins and calories: we can therefore take advantage of this to cut down on meat and use vegetable proteins instead, which are more environmentally friendly and often healthier.
- Empty shelves, shopping carts filled to the brim, shortages of toilet paper… The images from the supermarkets before the confinement were enough to leave a bitter taste. So, to avoid the rush and frenzied and unreasonable consumption, you can opt for more sustainable solutions such as reusable sanitary napkins, pretty water bottles or bamboo cotton buds and toothbrushes. You can also choose classic soaps and strong shampoos that last longer. As an added bonus, these more durable and environmentally friendly products reduce the amount of plastic and less waste. To prevent rubbish from accumulating faster, make the transition to bulk, which is available in most supermarkets or in specialty shops that are still mostly open. Pasta, cereals, dried fruit, rice… This way, you can buy everything you need without increasing the amount of waste!
