Ideas for Healthy Eating While in Isolation

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Our prolonged-time of social isolation is accompanied by an unprecedented set of challenges. Whether you’re staying at home alone or with family, boredom and loneliness can be overwhelming. Many people understandably turn to food for comfort. But what can you do to use your time at home now to jumpstart a healthy eating plan that will last long after our quarantine is over? Here are some ideas from Anne Arundel County podiatrist Dr. James M. McKee:

  1. Base your diet on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.

  2. Ease off the junk food. Save chips, cookies, ice cream, and the like for an occasional treat. Many processed foods are very high in sodium, which can exacerbate high blood pressure and many cardiovascular health issues.

  3. Eat plenty of low-fat dairy foods like yogurt and cheese, and drink skim or 1% milk. It will help ensure that you’re getting enough calcium to reduce your risk of osteoporosis, a dangerous weakening of bones that can contribute to foot and ankle injuries.

  4. Use some of your extra time to cook your meals. Search the internet for new recipes and videos of unfamiliar techniques.

  5. Is it hard to get your kids or other family members excited about healthy eating? Involve them in menu planning and cooking. They’re more likely to feel invested and to want to try their creations.

  6. What about beverages? Stick to plain water or seltzer. Add a bit of juice for flavoring if you prefer. Avoid sweetened sodas and other such drinks. All that sugar can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. It is especially dangerous for people with diabetes, which makes it difficult to maintain stable blood glucose and can pose particular risks for foot health.

 Stay safe and well by remaining at home until advised otherwise. If an issue related to the health of your feet, ankles, or lower legs arises, James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS, and the staff of Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. are here to help. Call us at 410-224-4448 or click here to discuss appropriate next steps.

foot and ankle injuries, General HealthPodiatry Group of Annapolishealthy eating, diabetes