What foods are safe to eat when having COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019)?

Safe Foods to Eat During COVID-19 Infection

All regular foods are safe to eat during COVID-19 infection, with emphasis on high-protein, nutrient-dense options to support recovery and immune function. 1

Nutritional Priorities During COVID-19

General Dietary Recommendations

• Focus on well-balanced, nutrient-dense foods that support immune function 2
• Prioritize high-protein foods to meet increased protein requirements (1.2-2.0 g/kg body weight/day) 1
• Ensure adequate hydration throughout the day
• Consider Mediterranean-style diet patterns which have been associated with decreased infection severity 2

Specific Food Recommendations

• Protein sources: Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and plant-based proteins
• Fruits and vegetables: Variety of colorful options to provide essential vitamins and minerals
• Whole grains: For energy and fiber
• Healthy fats: Especially those containing omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, seeds)

Managing COVID-19 Symptoms Through Diet

For Loss of Taste and Smell

• Try foods with varied textures and temperatures
• Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor perception
• Cold foods may be better tolerated than hot foods

For Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• If experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (occurs in ~10% of cases) 1:
  • Choose bland, easy-to-digest foods
  • Avoid spicy, fatty, or highly acidic foods
  • Small, frequent meals rather than large meals
  • Clear liquids and oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration

For Poor Appetite

• Small, frequent, nutrient-dense meals
• High-protein oral nutritional supplements providing at least 400 kcal/day and 30g protein/day 3
• Cold foods may be more appealing than hot foods

Nutritional Support for Recovery

Micronutrient Considerations

• Ensure adequate intake of key nutrients that support immune function 1:
  • Vitamin A
  • B vitamins
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D
  • Zinc
  • Selenium
  • Iron

When to Consider Nutritional Supplements

• If unable to meet nutritional needs through diet alone 3
• For patients at high nutritional risk (elderly, those with pre-existing conditions)
• When experiencing significant weight loss or decreased food intake

Physical Activity Considerations

• Continue regular physical activity while recovering at home, as tolerated 1
• Simple home exercises that require minimal equipment:
  • Walking around the house
  • Gentle stretching
  • Chair exercises
  • Tai Chi or yoga if familiar with these practices

Key Points to Remember

• Nutritional risk is highly prevalent in COVID-19 patients 1
• Early nutritional intervention is associated with better outcomes 3
• No specific foods are contraindicated during COVID-19 infection
• There is no established evidence that supraphysiologic amounts of micronutrients prevent or improve COVID-19 outcomes 1
• Focus on overall dietary quality rather than single nutrients or supplements 2

While specific "superfoods" for COVID-19 have not been identified, maintaining good nutritional status through a balanced diet is crucial for supporting immune function and recovery.