Individuals with Diabetes Are More Affected by the Coronavirus!

Dr. Fevzi Özgönül gave important information on the subject. Individuals with diabetes are at great risk of dealing with viral infections. They are also highly likely to be affected by COVID-19. This is because the body's immune system is lowered due to fluctuating or high blood sugar levels. If the person manages his diabetes well, it may be affected less by this situation.

Dr. Fevzi Özgönül ”Published studies show that approximately 10% of patients infected with coronavirus have diabetes and the mortality rate is high. It is stated that COVID-19 infection is more severe, especially in individuals with poor blood sugar control. People with diabetes have heart disease, obesity or other complications, causing them to be seriously affected by COVID-19. Increasing carbohydrate intake, stress-depression and weight gain, whether these people have home quarantine; It resulted in a decrease in the amount of daily activity. In addition, it has been stated that vitamin C and D, Omega-3, zinc, selenium have positive effects on COVID-19. "The most important issue is to control blood sugar in these individuals and to support the immune system."

So, how can we protect and control this situation with nutrition by using our body and mind?

• You can start by avoiding simple carbohydrates such as bread, sweets, pastries, packaged sugar foods. Consuming these foods will cause fluctuations by increasing your blood sugar suddenly and then lowering it suddenly.
• Try to reduce the amount of meals. Frequent feeding will force the pancreas to work continuously, causing it to wear out.
• Take care to consume protein sources such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs and cheese. Try to consume fish, which is a source of omega-3, at least once a week.
• Make sure to include colorful vegetables on your table. Thanks to the minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and fibers contained in vegetables, it creates positive effects on blood sugar and strengthens immunity. Broccoli, lemon, red capia peppers, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, tomatoes and spinach are vegetables rich in vitamin C.
• Your zinc intake with lamb-veal-turkey meat, mushrooms, garlic, kidney beans, eggs, feta cheese; You can also support your selenium intake with lentils, onions, fish and walnuts.
• Legumes are good sources of fiber. Try to include it in your diet at least 2 times a week.
• Add raw hazelnuts, walnuts and almonds to your diet. It balances your blood sugar with the healthy oils, selenium and zinc it contains and is successful in reducing the risk of infection by supporting immunity. It will also support the body's energy intake.
• A healthy intestinal flora is essential for a strong immune system. With probiotic support, it will be easier for your body to fight diseases.
• If you have a vitamin D deficiency, consult your doctor and be sure to take supplements.

Apart from all these, make sure to be active at home. Take care to follow the hygiene rules. Continue to maintain your body by eating well and keeping your distance with a mask.