Traditional Chinese medicine, including both decoction and some appropriate techniques, has played an effective role in fighting against the COVID-19 pandemic. Today we will introduce a traditional Chinese medicine treatment for self-protection and self-treatment during home quarantine: moxibustion.

A balanced diet is important for improving one's nutrition, resistance and physical condition after one recovers from the disease. The immune system cannot work well without sufficient nutrition. Only by constantly replenishing the body with necessary and basic nutrients and regulatory nutrients can the immune system work better. How can we improve our immunity by having a balanced diet?

Dietary principles during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is a respiratory disease closely related to the digestive system. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, over intake of spicy, fried, grilled and other high-calorie food will cause accumulation of internal heat in the stomach and intestines, which will then go upwards towards the lungs, causing a lung infection. Therefore, it is important to have a balanced diet of meat and vegetables and reduce the intake of fried, grilled and other high-calorie food as well as cold and greasy food so as to reduce the susceptibility of lungs and the incidence of diseases.

Adequate energy intake

Attention needs to be paid to the "staple foods" in Chinese food culture. The daily diet should include cereals and tubers including rice, corn, flour and miscellaneous grains, which can provide the main energy for the human body. We can also increase the intake of energy and essential fatty acid by using a variety of cooking vegetable oils. It is not recommended to go on a diet and thus neglect energy intake.

Get enough high-quality protein

Protein is the most important ingredient for the body. Insufficient protein intake will directly affect the body's self-repair ability and immunity. During the pandemic, we should increase the intake of fish, shrimp and other aquatic products, eggs, lean meat and soybean products, which are all rich in high-quality protein. The recommended daily consumption should be around 150-200g. Ensure that you eat one egg, and 300g of milk (or dairy products) every day. It is recommended to cook with fresh ingredients and eat less smoked, fried or cured meat. Do not eat wildlife.

Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits

Vegetables and fruits are rich in a variety of vitamins, and the dietary fiber in them is beneficial to the gut health of people who lack exercise at home during the quarantine period. Vegetables and fruits should be diverse and it is advisable to select those with darker colors. During the pandemic, it is recommended to have a moderate intake of multivitamins, minerals and deep-sea fish oil.

Drink adequate water

Drink adequate water containing a certain amount of electrolytes (1,500 to 2,000 milliliters) every day. Drink multiple times in small amounts. Mainly drink boiled water, weak tea, and scented tea. It is also effective to replenish water by drinking vegetable gush, fish soup, and chicken soup before meals. Drinking more water can speed up metabolism and promote the elimination of toxins. Since drinking sugary drinks, coffee, etc. can cause blood glucose to rise and increase the burden on the pancreas, it is not recommended to drink them a lot.