Healthy food options during community quarantine

It  has  only  been  the  first  quarter  of  a  new  decade,  yet  the  world  has  already  been confronted with disasters.  Just recently, the world was stricken by a novel coronavirus causing the COVID-19.
The  COVID-19  is  an  infectious  disease  that  can  cause  illnesses  ranging  from  mild cough to severe symptoms such as fever and difficulty in breathing.   Older  persons  and  those  with  pre-existing  medical  conditions  like  hypertension  and diabetes are more susceptible to develop the severe illness that may result in death.   With the rise of positive cases of the coronavirus in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila,  some  neighboring  provinces,  and  other  major  cities  nationwide,  everyone  is seriously advised to practice proper hygiene and social distancing and stay healthy.

Moreover, the island of Luzon  is already under  enhanced community quarantine  that prompted people to stock up on grocery items.  For people who are in the comfort of their homes, it is important to purchase food items packed  with  essential  nutrients  to  keep  ourselves  healthy  and  boost  our  immune system. 

Here are some food items they can purchase:
1.  Rootcrops Aside  from  rice,  rootcrops  are  excellent  sources  of  carbohydrates  for  energy. Sweet  potatoes  and  cassava  are  cheaper  and  more  nutritious.  They  can  be stored longer in the pantry. Rootcrops are also good sources of vitamin C that can aid the body in fighting infections and diseases. They are safe alternatives
for people with hypertension and diabetes because of their high fiber content and low glycemic index.
2.  Eggs Eggs are affordable and great sources of protein, vitamins A, B, E, and K. These nutrients are essential in maintaining bodily functions and immunity.
3.  Legumes Legumes like munggo, kadyos, kidney beans and nuts are also good sources of protein, vitamins and minerals. They are less perishable and can be added to a variety of dishes.
4.  Vegetables Stock on vegetables such as squash and carrots that have long shelf-life and are rich sources of beta-carotene and antioxidants.
5.  Fruits  Vitamin C aids the body in fighting infections. This nutrient is abundantly found in citrus-fruits like guava, dalandan, and oranges. Other options that can be bought are raisins and dried mangoes that have longer shelf-life.

These food items can complete your daily needs for Go, Grow, and Glow foods!

These can be bought aside from canned goods and instant noodles that are high in sodium and artificial ingredients. Try these  healthy and  nutritious  food  items  to  complete  our  diet and  keep  ourselves healthy. Use  the Pinggang Pinoy as a guide in eating a  balanced diet.

Exercise,  get enough  sleep,  and  avoid  stress  during  this  quarantine  period.  Always  wash  hands before and after preparing food and eating!

#ResistensyaPalakasinWastongPagkainLabansaCOVID19