You've tested positive for the virus. What now?
Perhaps it's been weeks since the initial stage of symptoms (fever & cough) but you are still feeling crap! You're feeling tired, lethargic, have a low grade fever, and foggy in the brain. I have spoken to a few people that have had the virus and I hear the same stories of frustration. Frustration at the length and rate of recovery and how they wish they could get back to 100%
TCM doctors globally have identified that the coronavirus creates a lot of dampness in patients. Dampness can cause fatigue, heaviness, excessive phlegm and mucous production. Dampness is also known for being that lingering guest at the party. Comes early, eats all the snack drinks all the booze and then won’t leave.
So here are my recovery recipes to show those lingering covid symptoms the door.
Give your body the right foods to work with...
1. Cut out the damp foods
Have a look at my previous post here
2. Make sure you are eating a colourful and varied diet.
Here is an example of what you could eat in day whilst recovering. I've picked out these 3 recipes because they include specific foods that boost the immune system, clear damp, build energy, and also moisten the lungs to clear lingering cough. These recipes are also super easy, no fuss because we all know cooking is the last thing you want to do when you are fatigued.
BREAKFAST
Oats with coconut milk
Goji berries, blueberries, strawberries.
Green tea
Coconut milk tonifies Qi, aids digestion, builds stamina. Enters the spleen, stomach, and kidneys. It is also has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Berries are great for nourishing the lungs. High in antioxidants they are anti inflammatory. They also have yin nourishing properties which help soothe and moisten the lung.
Green tea helps clear phlegm and heat. It can also enhance focus and refresh the mind. Full of antioxidants it also has cardio protective properties.
Source: Wife Mama Foodie
LUNCH
Rocket Pear and Walnut salad (Recipe inspired by Temptation for Food)
3 pears, firm but ripe, cored, cut 2cm wedges
90g rocket
¾ cup walnuts (or at least 10 walnuts), roasted
80ml grapeseed oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Sea salt & cracked pepper
Pears have been used for centuries in TCM to help lingering coughs.They nourish yin, clear heat and phlegm and enter the lungs and spleen. They are also anti-inflammatory.
Source: Temptation for food
Rocket tonifies qi, clear dampness and heat. It also aids digestion.
Walnuts are magical because they are shaped like a brain and guess what! They are good for your brain. With high levels of DHA they improve cognitive function. In TCM they have properties that help chronic cough and wheezing. But you have to have at least 10 nuts to have a therapeutic effect.
DINNER
One Pan Roast Chicken & Veg with Lemon & Rosemary
Inspired by recipe from Hip Foodie Mum
1-2 Carrots unpeeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
1-2 Parsnips cut into 1-inch pieces
1 Bunch of asparagus
8 shallots peeled and halved
4 carrots peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces, thick ends halved lengthwise
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
6 garlic cloves peeled and minced
4 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or a handful sprigs of fresh thyme
3 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves only; split Source: Hip Foodie Mom
3 1/2 pounds bone-in skin on chicken pieces (breasts, drumsticks and thighs)
salt and pepper
Chicken is not only great for boosting qi and blood but it nourishes the Jing. Which is essential in recuperation and repair.
Rosemary & Thyme, classic combo that tastes great but also wonderful for coughs and our lungs. They have a damp clearing property that targets brain fog and enhances cognitive function.
Carrots, Parsnips, Asparagus all work together to boost qi, nourish yin and clear dampness.
Garlic supports the immune system, and regulates digestion. It has antimicrobial properties and gives you fantastic breath :). All in all you should use garlic in everything because it makes everything taste so much better.
And of course.... Don't forget to rest! This might be obvious to some but so many times we are in a rush (me included) to get back to normality when our bodies aren’t ready yet. This prolongs recovery, exacerbates symptoms and of course is incredibly frustrating. You are allowed to rest! Listen to your body, it will let you know when you are ready.
*This information is not designed to diagnose treat, prevent or cure any conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms please contact 111. Stay safe*
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