Medical Nutrition Therapy for Management of COVID 19 for Adults – Compiled Guidelines by the Indian Dietetic Association (2019-2022)

Abstract

The advent of COVID-19 waves has continued since 2020, and we are here to accept that as individuals we have to learn to combat and recover from this infection effectively by COVID appropriate behaviour of quarantine, complete schedules of vaccination, masking, hand washing and a good dietary intervention to enable good recovery. This compiled review from the working group of Nutritionist of Indian Dietetic Association (2019-2022) will serve as a ready reference for dietitians, physicians and healthcare professionals in different settings; to advise the right diet and adequate nutrition for the adult COVID patients in different stages of the infection.The key points include- in mild intensity disease, while the patient is quarantined and home bound, the emphasis is on consuming adequate nutrient dense foods supporting the immune system, as well as providing adequate hydration. The role of traditional practices and immune boosting nutrients will also help in supporting the mildly affected patient. In case of moderate illness, the demand consequent to running fever and cough needs to be
met. The needs of the elderly population and patients with co-morbidities would be very specific and critical, and that needs to be thoroughly monitored. The management of a patient with critical illness, needing intensive care support, will need customized parenteral and enteral nutrition support. The dietary specifications in case of co-morbidities, for those needing ventilator support and ECHMO have been enumerated. This paper clearly brings out the need for an individualized nutrition support delivered by a qualified Nutritionist as a part of health care team in each of the stages of the COVID-19 infection, and is a strong recommendation.