Don’t worry, you don’t need a special diet to get your vaccine.
Thepossible side effects of the COVID vaccineare fairly well known.
A sore arm, feeling achy, or having the chills, according to the CDC.
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But what role does food play, if any?
Are there foods you should avoid?
(Learn more about thebest immune-supporting vitamins and minerals.)
People should be wary of any supplements or products that claim to enhance vaccine response."
Instead, focus on whole foods like nuts, fish, fruit and vegetables.
These foods are good to incorporate into your diet all the time.
It might be nice to have one of these make-ahead freezer meals on hand.
This could make you dizzy and more likely to faint if you are someone who gets queasy around needles.
(Thesehealthy snack recipes might be a good place to start.)
After the vaccine, you may have side effects like arm pain, a low-grade fever or body aches.
These mean your immune system is working, experts say.
Ask your doctor about over-the-counter pain medications you could take to alleviate symptoms.
“Before and after getting the vaccine, I recommend drinking plenty of fluids,” says Dr. Koza.
She also encourages consumption of foods like fruits, vegetables, and broth-based soups to boost the immune system.
The CDCalso recommends drinking fluids after your shot, if you’re experiencing discomfort from fever.
What about alcohol?
There is also no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines are unsafe for individuals who consume alcohol."
Should you exercise?
Rest is of utmost importance, especially if you aren’t feeling great after getting vaccinated.
But if you’re up for it, “Get some form of exercise.
I want to remind everyone how important diet and exercise are during this time as well.
“The main issue is to get the vaccine unless you have an exclusion criteria.
I want to stress the need for vaccination and the urgency for individuals to get vaccinated.
Do not delay,” says Dr. Siddiqui.
