Being sick is really a headache, and catching Covid-19 is really a problem in today’s society. This pandemic has made a huge impact on the lives of many in terms of economics, finance, and of course, health. But what exactly is Covid-19 and what does it do to the body when someone catches this virus?

As mentioned by the World Health Organization, The SARS-CoV-2 virus is responsible for Coronavirus illness (COVID-19).

While some patients can develop mild to severe respiratory disease, most will recover without the need for further treatment. As a result, some may need medical intervention. Serious sickness is more likely to strike the elderly and those with preexisting medical disorders such as heart or circulatory disease, diabetes, chronic pulmonary disease, or even cancer. COVID-19 may affect anybody at any age and cause severe illness or death.

Because of this virus, certain lockdowns are implemented throughout the entire world including Singapore.

In 2020, a spike in infections among Singapore's migrant workers has prompted the city-state to prolong its coronavirus limitations until the beginning of June in response to the city state's 9,000+ confirmed cases.

It was thought that Singapore had successfully contained the early phases of the epidemic, but a fresh and rapidly spreading second peak of cases has shown how fast the virus may return. Establishments and schools have been ordered to close and the public is asked to remain inside until the first of June of 2020. They went into effect at the beginning of April and were initially laid to rest on May 4, 2020.

With this, people have been panic buying to store foods in their homes, looking for long-lasting healthy fruits and vegetables to buy especially when one of the members of the family catches the virus.

Self-quarantine is also accepted now by the public but it will be better to disclose this kind of information to the health centers nearby to assess the overall health condition. Nevertheless, the World Health Organization has provided an overview of the Long-Lasting fruits and vegetables that you may consider when going in for a quarantine.

• A daily intake of 400 grams of fruits and vegetables, or about five servings, is recommended. It's also a good idea to freeze citrus fruits such as oranges and clementines, as well as bananas and apples, which can be used to make smoothies and eaten later.

• Carrots, turnips, and beets, as well as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, are all examples of root vegetables that store well. For those who like to cook, garlic, ginger, and onions are excellent selections to have on hand.

• Even though they're frozen, fruits like berries, pineapples, and mangoes are packed with fiber and vitamins, making them an excellent alternative to fresh selections. You may thaw these frozen fruits and use them in juices, smoothies, or cereal, or you can eat them straight from the freezer with plain low-fat yogurt.

• Vegetable protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals may all be found in legumes including beans, chickpeas, lentils, and other pulses. These may be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads.

In addition to the aforementioned fruits and vegetables, other foods below can be considered for their long-lasting characteristics.

• There are several benefits to eating whole grain meals like brown rice, buckwheat and quinoa, which have a long shelf life and can be quickly cooked. They also add to a person's fiber consumption.

• Wholegrain bread and unsalted crackers are also healthy choices. To keep it fresh longer, slices of bread may be refrigerated and thawed at a later time.

• Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cassava are all excellent sources of carbohydrates that may be stored for lengthy periods of time. These are best prepared by baking, boiling, or steaming. Peeled vegetables are a great source of both fiber and flavor.

• Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients, and they may be used in a plethora of different ways. Instead of frying, try boiling or poaching.

• Canned veggies, such as mushrooms, spinach, peas, tomatoes, and green beans, are ideal choices to frozen or fresh vegetables since they have a longer shelf life. Always go for low- or no-salt choices wherever you can.

• Protein and omega-3 fatty acids abound in canned tuna, sardines, and other seafood. These may be added to salads, pasta, or whole-grain breads for a nutritious boost. If you can, buy fish canned in water instead of oil or brine.

• Protein and other nutrients may be obtained at a low cost from dairy products. Reducing the amount of saturated fat in your diet by choosing low-fat dairy products is an option. Cans and cartons of UHT milk have a long shelf life. Another alternative is powdered milk.

Sources:

https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/21/singapore-coronavirus-outbreak-surges-with-3000-new-cases-in-three-days

Food and nutrition tips during self-quarantine.