Jakarta (ANTARA) – Entering 2022 the COVID-19 pandemic does not seem to end soon, instead we have to face a new wave of COVID-19 due to mutations and the appearance of the Omicron variant.
The Omicron variant is indeed referred to as a variant that has milder symptoms and impacts on the human body, but the transmission seems to be faster so it still has potential dangers that must be watched out for.
It was recorded that the day before welcoming Valentine’s Day, there were an addition of 44,526 positive cases of COVID-19.
The vicious COVID-19 condition, of course, must be dealt with firmly and with discipline in carrying out health protocols, washing hands, maintaining distance, and wearing masks.
In addition, maintaining nutritional intake for the body’s immune system is also important so that the potential for viruses to infect the body is also minimal.
Keeping the immune system well-produced through nutritional intake is also increasingly important for people exposed to COVID-19 so that the recovery process can occur faster.
Dr. Rita Ramayulis, DCN, M.Kes., a nutrition expert and also the Chairperson of the Indonesian Association of Sports Nutritionists (ISNA) said that supporting a good immune system will certainly help health, especially in fighting viruses that infect the body.
“In the body’s defense process from bacterial and viral infections, the immune system will work together to recognize them and provide an immediate response. A strong immune system will give a good response by fighting against bacterial and viral infections until the bacteria and viruses die. Therefore, we must always build a strong immune system,” said Dr. Rita Ramayulis in a written statement, Monday.
Good nutrition through the consumption of minerals, protein, and vitamins as well as maximum fluids can certainly maintain the body’s system.
One of them is coconut water which is easily found in Indonesia.
In addition to having hydrating benefits, coconut also contains minerals so that it can maintain a better balance in the body.
“Body fluids have an important role in maintaining cell membranes that protect all body organs, as the main component of white blood cells and help absorb nutrients and distribute them to all cells that need them. While minerals have a role in maintaining the balance of chemical reactions in the body Therefore, we must enter more fluids when infected, one of which is by consuming coconut water which also contains minerals. A well-hydrated body and together with a balanced diet will recover faster, “said Rita.
Not only that, apparently coconut water has many other positive benefits and provides multiple benefits for those of you who regularly consume it.
Here are some interesting facts about coconut water that you need to know.
The first interesting fact is that coconut water seems to provide a lot of nutrients and electrolytes that help with post-infection or post-workout recovery.
In the 2019 Indonesian Food Composition Table, coconut water is noted to be abundant in electrolyte content, especially potassium, as well as calcium, sodium and magnesium.
One cup or 150 cc of coconut water contains 26 kcal of total energy, 0.3 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, 5.7 grams of carbohydrates, 23 milligrams of calcium, 12 milligrams of phosphorus, 0.3 milligrams of iron, 39 milligrams of sodium. milligrams, 224 milligrams of potassium, 9 milligrams of magnesium, and 15 milligrams of vitamin C.
“Electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, sodium and calcium have a role in the immune system by supporting all activities of immune cells in fighting infection,” said Dr. Rita Ramayulis who is also a graduate of FKM UI.
So, in good health, let alone sick, or in between, we need to get enough electrolytes.
In fact, preventing electrolyte deficiencies is essential for good immune system health.
“The electrolytes in coconut water can help regulate fluid balance, prevent dehydration, and even ensure proper muscle function. Of course, we also have to ensure the adequacy of carbohydrates and protein at the time of infection. In addition, these electrolytes are also good to consume after exercising,” said Rita.
The second fact of coconut water that is interesting and beneficial for the body is that it can reduce blood pressure and the risk of stroke.
Bananas are well known for their high amount of potassium or potassium, but one cup of coconut water can contain more potassium than a medium banana.
Research shows that a diet rich in potassium can help support heart health by reducing blood pressure and even protecting against stroke.
Supplementing coconut water with other potassium-rich foods in our nutritional intake pattern can certainly be beneficial for supporting heart health.
Coconut water also turns out to be able to support good digestion so that the body can perform metabolism optimally.
This is possible thanks to the magnesium and minerals in coconut water that help keep things moving and prevent constipation.
In addition, because it is a liquid, of course coconut water can be hydrating. Dr. Rita says adequate hydration in general is also important to help regulate bowel movements.
Not only good for digestion, apparently coconut water can also support the body’s immunity to stay awake thanks to its hydration benefits.
If we are sick or infected with viruses including COVID-19 the body can lose large amounts of fluids when we have a fever, or vomit and have diarrhea.
Dr. Rita said that coconut water can help with hydration status and balance electrolytes better than plain water in this scenario.
Some variants of coconut water even contain vitamins C and D which can provide better immune support.
In addition, it is also important to make sure the body is well hydrated after the vaccine, one of which can be done by drinking coconut water.
The last interesting fact about coconut water is that it helps with weight management.
Many people mistakenly think of thirst as hunger, pushing them to eat and drink too much sugary drinks that lead to weight gain.
Although coconut water has more calories than regular water, it is substantially lower in calories than other beverages such as soda, juice or other sugary drinks.
The simple process of replacing sugary drinks with coconut water can help you cut calories for a week.
With these interesting facts, you might be able to try regularly consuming coconut water.
But keep in mind, don’t just rely on coconut water to provide enough nutrients for the body because one nutrient intake is not enough for the body’s needs.
Also pay attention to the “fill my plate” standard issued by the Ministry of Health so that your body can work optimally to keep your body healthy and fit.
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