Eating a healthy diet helps strengthen your immune system and fight off disease, which is increasingly important during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Nutrients like vitamin D could protect patients against COVID-19, according to studies from Northwestern University in the U.S. and the UK's Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn NHS Foundation Trust.  

It is essential to obtain these nutrients from the food you eat every day. So what do you need to eat to keep a healthy diet?

1. Based on your metabolism, ensure you get an adequate daily calorie intake. Normally, the recommended calorie intake for women is 2,100-2,300 calories per day, and men need 2,400-2,700 calories, according to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 

2. Eat the right proportion of protein (10-35 percent), carbohydrates (45-65 percent) and fats (20-35 percent). Salmon, eggs, yogurt, cereals, and orange juice could be your sources of vitamin D, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

3. Try to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water a day – about eight 8-ounce glasses – which can help boost your metabolism.

4. Ensure adequate intake of fresh vegetables and fruits. Eating 500 grams of vegetables and 200 to 350 grams of fruit per day is suggested.

For COVID-19 patients who are in the recovery stage or patients with mild symptoms, moderate intake of protein, vitamin C, vitamin D and other nutrients is helpful. Consult your doctor remotely regarding healthy eating if possible.