11 Foods and Drinks to Soothe COVID-19 Symptoms
- As of December 13, 2025, prioritizing nutrition, especially protein intake, can be a key component in recovering from COVID-19, even with reduced physical activity and appetite.
- According to Nicole Roach, RD, who works at Lenox Hill hospital in New York City, a plant-based diet can aid in COVID-19 recovery.
- Maintaining muscle mass is crucial when physical activity is limited, and COVID-19 often creates a hypermetabolic state where the body burns more fuel.
Fueling COVID-19 Recovery Through Nutrition
As of December 13, 2025, prioritizing nutrition, especially protein intake, can be a key component in recovering from COVID-19, even with reduced physical activity and appetite.
The Importance of Protein During Recovery
According to Nicole Roach, RD, who works at Lenox Hill hospital in New York City, a plant-based diet can aid in COVID-19 recovery. Roach suggests ensuring adequate protein intake from non-meat sources, such as nuts, seeds, nut butter, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and beans.
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial when physical activity is limited, and COVID-19 often creates a hypermetabolic state where the body burns more fuel. Failing to replenish this fuel can exacerbate fatigue, Roach explains.
Addressing Appetite Loss and Fatigue
Many individuals experience decreased appetite or shortness of breath during a COVID-19 diagnosis. roach recommends focusing on protein consumption even when appetite is diminished. If plant-based options are inaccessible, animal sources of protein are also beneficial and shouldn’t be avoided when ill.
for those experiencing extreme fatigue and difficulty cooking, a protein shake offers a convenient and easily consumable way to meet protein needs.