Wellness

CEOs and workers alike feel pressure to stay fit and healthy. Despite Covid-19 becoming increasingly normalized, everyone has resumed life’s usual life’s activities, (often without a mask!). Notwithstanding, common colds, influenza A & B, gastrointestinal viruses and many more illnesses are rising in prevalence. 

Despite Omicron being a milder version of COVID-19, more and more people are being ordered to self-quarantine due to a multiplicity of different viruses circulating in the community and companies are back to normal life, with many returning to the office.

However if sicknes strikes, choosing the right items to stockpile is key says Catalina Levitt, a globally recognized nutritionist. 

And no self-quarantine checklist is complete without proper food supplies. 

Here are some of the best (and healthiest) foods to load up on, according to Catalina Levitt, a top nutritionist who provides consultations to CEOs, entrepreneurs and people all over the world via Zoom:

What to put in your fridge

 "Consider loading up on apples, fruits and vegetables like carrots and celery—which can be used for the base of most soups," says Levitt. She also recommends adding eggs to the list. "They typically last a month in the fridge if purchased fresh and can be used to make a range of dishes (think wraps, salads and patties) as well as baked goods," she points out. 

Meanwhile, Levitt suggests stocking on leafy greens like spinach. "All of these leafy greens are overstocked in the majority of food stores right now because everyone is focused on the non-perishable items," says Levitt.

What to put in your freezer

"Load up on frozen fruits and veggies as they can be just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts," says Levitt. You can use them to whip up everything from smoothies and parfaits to sandwiches, casseroles and stir-fries. 

"Just look for ones that don't have added sugars, sauces, syrups, seasonings or salt," she suggests. 

The nutritionist also recommends purchasing protein-rich meats like fish and chicken for the freezer. 

"When buying meat, keep in mind that they can take up a lot of room," she adds.

Your cupboard shouldn’t be bare

 "You want to focus on pantry staples that have a very long shelf life since you may potentially be quarantined for 14 days and the current recommendations are to hunker down," says Levitt. 

The nutrition expert suggests bulk buying fiber- and protein-rich pantry options like whole-grain crackers, cereals and pasta and nuts and seeds. Canned fish like tuna and sardines are another great option to add to your pantry. 

What can you eat for overall immunity

Eat more anti-inflammatory foods. "Focus on anti-inflammatory foods that are rich in lycopene and omega-3 fatty acids like tomatoes, walnuts, berries and leafy greens," says Levitt. 

"These foods not only provide key nutrients, but they are also excellent at supporting your immune system and fighting inflammation." 

Snack mindfully. Spending more time at home, primarily in front of a screen, can often lead to mindless grazing. Try these doable tips to curb mindless snacking. Additionally, buy more of good-for-you snacks like dark chocolate, roasted chickpeas, oatmeal bars and mixed nuts than sugar-laden treats like candies and cookies. 

Prepare in bulk. Levitt suggests focusing more on make-ahead meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. "Consider making large batches of soups or stews. They freeze well and can be easily reheated in the microwave," she says. Preparing food in bulk in advance would also mean that you don't have to cook even when you don't feel like it, she adds.

Stay hydrated. Whenever you feel peckish, "it's important to really listen to your body and gage if you are actually hungry or maybe dehydrated," says Levitt. Besides drinking lots of water, she suggests trying herbal teas, coconut water and chicken and vegetable broths to up your fluid intake.

And lastly, plan ahead before you go grocery shopping to avoid frequent trips. For re-stocking, consider delivery services that offer no-contact drop-off to minimize your exposure. Just make sure you order at least five to seven days in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

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