Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are physical distancing, staying home and unable to dine out at restaurants. It can be easy to slip into unhealthy eating habits during this stay-at-home period, but maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t have to be a chore. As well, eating healthy is one of the main pillars for maintaining a strong and healthy immune system.  What to do? Prepare a shopping list that will cover everyone in the household for two weeks and resist the urge to buy in larger quantities. With fresh foods, buy a variety of fresh, frozen and shelf-stable foods. Eat fresh food first, and stock the freezer and pantry with items to eat in the second week and beyond.

Having food delivered is another option, as is curbside pickup, which most local supermarkets are offering. Look for community supported agriculture systems where small farmers sell directly to consumers delivered to homes.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, nuts and healthy fats to support the immune system. Many foods such as mac and cheese, pizza, and burgers and fries are high in fat, sugar and salt. Read food labels to be informed about the nutritional value of foods. Staying well hydrated also helps the immune system. Alcoholic beverages have little nutritional value and are often high in calories.

For more information, visit AgrilifeExtension.tamu.edu/coronavirus#nutrition.