Maintaining Physical and Mental Health During COVID-19 Epidemic

In this age of information, misinformation is taking the center stage with the rapid deterioration of corona virus situation. Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Dhaka medical College busts myths on the dietary remedy of corona virus  and provide valuable tips on how to maintain good physical and mental health.

Professor Hoque emphasizes that  there is no evidence that any particular food can prevent corona virus infection or treat for the COVID-19. However, he points out  that nutritious food can be beneficial at this extraordinary time.

Food consumption should depend on one’s physique as well as daily physical activities. As the latter  might reduce due to lock-down, he advises to reduce oily foods and carbohydrates intake and to increase foods rich in vitamin and minerals, e.g., vegetables and fresh fruits.

He admits that garlic is known for it’s disease prevention capability, however, there is no clinical evidence that garlic can prevent or cure corona virus infection.

He emphasizes on staying at home. However, he also mention that staying home is not the norm of Bangladeshis. As a result, there might be two different kinds of impact, physical and mental.

He suggests to carry on the physical exercises that is possible at home environment, e.g., treadmill, stationary bikes and walking. On mental health issue he opines that there is no need to get obsessed with the corona virus news, and request to rely on legitimate sources of information only. Listening to good music can be a good idea too.

If someone becomes ill with non-emergency symptoms, he recommends to take treatment over tele-medicine.