The world of Tzu Chi Augusts 2021 (Vol.136)

TZU CHI 136 21 Greens to fight the virus A recent study by a leading American university shows that healthcare workers on a plant- based diet recorded 73 per cent lower odds of moderate to severe Covid-19 severity, and suggested that this dietary pattern may be considered for protection against severe Covid-19. A s the Covid-19 pandemic rages on in Malaysia, vaccination is rolled out at an insanely pace as it is one plausible preventive measure besides the implementation of strict SOPs. A month ago, the infectivity index (R-value*) in the country was below 0.94. However, starting June 28, the figure has surpassed the infectivity threshold of 1.0. Without any likelihood of dropping, it hit an all-time high of 1.18 on July 17. The infectivity rate in the states of KL, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah and Terengganu rose higher than that of other states, while Putrajaya recorded 1.26. Getting vaccinated is a preventive measure to curb the spread. However, the transmission of virus from animals to humans is still the main problem. There are about 700,000 viruses that can infect humans, and among them, 250 viruses are discovered in places where humans live. According to a research study by the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), three out every four new or emerging infectious viruses are spread from animals to humans. Meatless diet may be a viable solution Recent research by Johns Hopkins University on participants from six countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, England and America) found that Covid-19 patients who adopted a plant-based diet showed a 73 per cent reduced risk of severe symptoms. Published in the British Medical Journal in June this year, the research culled the sample from 2,884 frontline healthcare workers, of whom 568 contracted the coronavirus. In contrast, patients who followed a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates were 3.86 times more likely to become seriously ill than those on a non-meat diet. This is because a large intake of vegetables and fruits which are rich in vitamins, phytonutrients and minerals enhances the immune system and prevents progression of the disease. Tina Chiu, assistant professor in the Department of Nutritional Science at Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan, said, “At the onset of the Covid-19 infection, the inflammatory response plays a very important role. AWFPB diet can prevent many diseases; it can prevent diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more.” The wholefood diet consists of minimally processed foods that are natural and fresh, and do not contain artificial substances. AHealthier Me – Let Us Begin Anew