The principle of nutrition for people with Covid-19 being treated at home is to have adequate and balanced nutrition to maintain physical condition, eat a variety of foods and drink plenty of water (at least two liters of water per day). You should drink filtered water, fruit juice, do not drink drinks that stimulate the nervous system such as tea, coffee... Especially, in case of fever, you should drink ORS to replenish water and electrolytes.

Coconut water is also a good drink for rehydration and electrolytes. The rich potassium content in coconut water helps balance electrolytes, optimizes the functioning of the circulatory, nervous and immune systems as well as supports the absorption and regulation of fluids, replenishing and rehydrating the body.

In traditional medicine, coconut water is sweet, cold, non-toxic, enters the stomach, spleen, and large intestine meridians, has the effect of cooling, reducing thirst, diuresis, and detoxification, and is often used to treat heatstroke, fever, thirst, vomiting, dehydration, diarrhea, weakness, etc. In addition, coconut water is rich in nutrients, minerals, and vitamins, which can strengthen the body's immune system and resistance.

During the time of Covid-19, most patients are tired, their whole body feels heavy, they are afraid to move, they do not do anything, and they wake up feeling lethargic and not alert. Some common symptoms in Covid-19 patients are: runny nose, shivering fear of cold wind with fever, shortness of breath, soft voice, headache, stuffy nose, loss of smell, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating and fullness, red and dripping urine, lots of phlegm, cough and difficulty breathing. Therefore, you should use coconut water to nourish your body during the treatment process. Moreover, studies have shown that coconut water has the effect of preventing cardiovascular diseases, arthritis and cancer, so coconut water is very good after Covid-19.

The amount of coconut water needed to drink each day depends on age, health status, activity level and other accompanying factors of the body. Mild Covid-19 patients treated at home can drink 1-2 cups per day. People with medical conditions such as low blood pressure, diabetes, kidney failure or electrolyte disturbances, high fever should consult a doctor.

Dr. Ngo Quang Hai

Former Deputy Director of Training and Line Guidance Center, Central Acupuncture Hospital