As COVID-19 cases rapidly increase, experts advise middle-aged and elderly people to: avoid 2 things, eat 3 types of foods more, and do 4 important things to boost immunity. Here are the details:

Avoid 2 Things

• Cold and “Cooling” Foods
  Although the weather is not very hot yet, many people already enjoy cold foods and drinks like iced beer, ice cream, and watermelon. These can chill the stomach, cause digestive disorders, and weaken immunity, thereby increasing the risk of COVID-19 infection.
  Middle-aged and elderly people should prefer warming foods such as goat meat, red dates, longan, hawthorn, and dried longan to nourish the body and protect health.

• Spicy and Oily Foods
  As the weather becomes warmer, older adults should limit spicy foods like chili, ginger, pepper, garlic, mustard, and oily dishes like braised meat or grilled fish. These can irritate the stomach lining, disrupt digestion, impair gut function and immunity, creating opportunities for the virus to attack.
  It is best to eat mild foods and drink enough water to enhance metabolism and help expel viruses from the body.

Eat More of These 3 Foods

• Protein-Rich Foods
  Middle-aged and elderly people should supplement protein-rich foods like tofu, lean meat, milk, and fish. Tofu especially contains abundant plant protein, which suits older adults well.
  Adequate daily protein intake provides essential nutrients, boosts resistance, and helps fight viral invasion.

• Fresh Seasonal Vegetables
  Summer brings an abundance of fresh, affordable, and nutrient-rich vegetables. Studies show that seasonal vegetables contain plenty of vitamin C, a natural antioxidant that strengthens immunity and prevents viruses. Tomatoes, carrots, and celery are particularly beneficial for older adults.

• Mushrooms
  Shiitake, black fungus, enoki mushrooms, and others are highly nutritious and considered tonic foods. Regular mushroom consumption boosts the immune system and the body’s ability to resist viruses. Shiitake mushrooms are especially tasty and healthy, making them ideal for middle-aged and elderly people.

Do These 4 Things Well

• Drink Enough Water
  Drinking plenty of water promotes metabolism and helps flush viruses from the body. It also regulates body temperature, prevents dehydration discomfort, soothes the throat, reduces phlegm, and lowers infection risk. It is recommended to drink warm or hot water and avoid cold drinks or carbonated beverages.

• Maintain Personal Hygiene
  Older adults should frequently wash their hands before eating, after using the toilet, and after coming home from outside. Regularly clean the house and keep indoor air fresh. Avoid crowded places and always wear a mask outdoors. Good hygiene significantly reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection.

• Exercise Moderately
  Light activities such as brisk walking, badminton, and cycling are excellent for boosting immunity. However, avoid overexertion as it may cause prolonged fatigue, weaken immunity, and increase vulnerability to viruses.

• Keep a Positive Mindset
  Older adults should maintain a relaxed and optimistic spirit, avoiding stress, anxiety, and anger. Negative emotions can weaken the immune system and create opportunities for viral invasion. A happy and positive attitude is an important “shield” to defeat viruses from within.