HOW TO MAXIMISE EFFECT OF COVID-19 VACCINE AND MINIMISE SIDE EFFECTS?

By sophiya Mathew

BCJ

As many of us are stepping in, to get vaccinated against covid-19, it is essential to keep in mind, how to keep our body least prone to its side effects. Headache, fatigue, mild fever, body ache and weakness are commonly experienced after vaccination. However, fear of confronting this should not stop anyone from receiving their jabs.

Shweta Gupta, celebrity nutritionist and dietitian, founder, New Beginnings

Suggested in an Indian Express article, to not fear, and make little changes in diet to minimise side effects and maximise the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine. For a speedy recovery post-vaccine and to feel back to normal in no time, these food items should be added to ones diet.

Raw Turmeric : Having anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties, this is bound to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These medicinal properties of turmeric boost the immune system and surprisingly even of those with immunity disorders. Curcumin is the bioactive compound in Turmeric which does the magic. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. So, drinking a glass of warm turmeric milk or turmeric tea will help achieve this.

Green Veggies : From school days we are taught the importance of including these in our diet. Since these are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, potassium, folate, magnesium, and other minerals that help to build immunity, they are a must have. Cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, parsley,sprouts, beans are some of these green veggies. These can be consumed through salads, soups or a variety of curries.

Ginger : Ginger is an ingredient found for majority of the home remedies in case of any illness. Hence it is not surprising to include this in the list. It has more than 30 amino acids and 500 enzymes and coenzymes, which helps to provide immune-boosting properties to the body. Apart from this, they lower down stress levels and combat inflammation. So after your jab a raw ginger, ginger tea or even gingerols supplements can be taken.

Whole-grain foods : Just like turmeric, this is great in promoting gut health which results in better immune systems. They provide with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits because of their high fibre content and polyphenols. Oats, brown bread, barley, etc are some great whole grain foods to intake. This also increases the energy levels and prevents body from getting weak.

Hydrating foods : Cucumber, Celery, Watermelons, peaches, oranges, lettuce are some hydrating foods. Water-rich foods or hydrating foods are essential to prevent dehydration and several severe health complications. It helps to relieve sore arms, reduce body aches, maintain ideal body temperature, and lower down anxiety. So including hydrating foods rich in anti-inflammatory compounds is an ideal option to fight post vaccination fatigue and ailments.