How A Longevity RD Took Care Of Herself When She Had COVID-19

One Monday morning this past year, I woke up feeling too tired to get out of bed. While that's not uncommon for some, it's extremely out of the ordinary for me. I usually wake up feeling active and stick to a regular morning routine. That morning, things were different. 

Initially, I blamed that exhaustion on my busy schedule from the week before and an overall lack of sleep. As the day went on, though, I started to develop a scratchy throat and a runny nose. Since my work is often client-facing, I decided to get a COVID-19 test to be safe. By the end of the day, I broke a fever of around 100 degrees. 

The first thing I decided to make was an antioxidant-rich beverage filled with cranberries, red currants, cherries, raspberries, lemon, and honey. I mixed those ingredients in the food processor, then added the concoction to hot water. Not only is the drink delicious, but it's also a simple way to increase your intake of immune-supporting vitamin C. 

For the first few days, I didn't have much of an appetite (though I did retain my sense of taste and smell), so I opted for nutrient-rich and soothing drinks instead of solid food. 

Along with the berry beverage, I also drank hot ginger tea with lemon, turmeric, and honey. Turmeric and ginger are high in anti-inflammatory properties, while hot water with honey also has a range of soothing health benefits. 

For protein and gut support, I drank bone broth—and when my appetite allowed for it, I'd use the broth as a base for vegetable soup containing blended leeks, broccoli, onions, herbs, and spices.

While nutrition plays a major role in metabolic, gut, and overall health, there are plenty of other factors that support the body.

To avoid exposing others, I stayed home alone for three weeks. While being sick can be a physical burden, the social isolation can take a mental toll, too. I was well aware that elevated cortisol (stress) levels could weaken my immune system1. To keep my cortisol levels balanced and to help me unwind before bed, I practiced loving-kindness meditations and took hot Epsom salt baths.

I also followed a supplement routine consisting of magnesium for enhanced sleep, a probiotic for gut and immune support, vitamin C, and omega-3s.