More fruits and vegetables: How coronavirus has altered the diet of Ghanaians

In order to stay healthy this Coronavirus period, individuals are now adding more fruits and vegetables to their diet which are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

Proper intake of fruits and vegetables protect the body against diseases while maintaining good health. Nutritionists have advised that daily intake of fruits and veggies which are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can go a long way to boost the immune system.

On this backdrop, COVID-19 has raised more concerns about food choices. In a report by GhanaWeb, the team found out that individuals who are more concerned about their health are making conscious effort to include fruits and vegetables in their diet.

A young man in his mid-thirties, Joojo, who is determined to stay healthy this period said, “I now eat more fruits especially oranges and watermelons. I sometimes drink sobolo (bissap juice) too but with the fruits, I eat it three times a week.”

You may not like some specific fruits and vegetables, however, a good immune system improves one’s ability to fight off infections.

Fruits which belongs to the citrus family like oranges and lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a nutrient that strengthens the immune system and gives relief when developing a cold. Vitamin C may reduce the duration of common cold symptoms.

The inclusion of fruits and veggies in breakfast, lunch, and supper are essential. According to Hajia Nuse Yakubu, who sells fruits and vegetables in Dzorwulu in Accra, sales have improved in this period.

“More people are buying fruits since the outbreak of the coronavirus especially lemon, banana and pineapples. They claim the vitamin C in these fruits are good for the body. The prices of fruits are stable. Everyone can purchase some. It is not expensive,” she said.

Some families have come up with homemade recipes which they believe can help boost the immune system, there is a long list of these new recipes.

Another man who spoke to GhanaWeb said, “sometimes I take in sobolo prepared by my wife. With all these, I think I'm on a good course. I don't really like vegetables unless it's added to my meals at home.”

The sobolo juice is made from hibiscus leaves. It is mostly blended with pineapples, ginger and some local herb. It is a common beverage in Ghana but has gained more popularity in this coronavirus era.