Monday, January 17 No. 7 Topic of the Day While a healthy lifestyle is not a substitute for getting fully vaccinated against COVID-19, healthy lifestyle choices decrease the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 in the first place, or of developing severe disease if you do get sick. In addition to being fully vaccinated, the best way to boost your immune system naturally? Follow these healthy lifestyle habits from Rania Dempsey, MD. Research Throughout this month, we are presenting a lot of long-standing research that demonstrates how plant-based diets can benefit diseases ranging from cancer to diabetes and heart disease. But what about the current disease that is impacting so many of us, COVID-19? Is there any research to suggest that a plant-based diet can help here, too? A prospective study (looking back at data acquired since the pandemic onset) of nearly 600,000 COVID-19 study participants in the USA and UK reports that yes, there is a link between a healthy plant-based diet and a reduced risk and severity of COVID-19 infection. Plant-based Inspiration Shawna Gloe, Class of 2025 recommends trying these peanut butter miso noodles. Though the recipe calls for red miso, Shawna notes that any miso paste will do. She also recommends adding bell peppers, edamame, bok choy, broccoli, and spinach! Action Item On your next trip to the grocery store, buy at least 4 different colored fruits and vegetables! REGISTER HERE to join a panel discussion on the documentary, The Game Changers. The documentary showcases success stories of athletes that have benefited from a plant-based diet. The panel discussion will be held on February 1, 4-5pm via Zoom. The documentary is available to watch on Netflix, Youtube, and other fee-based options. Take a virtual coffee break with Dr. Stuart Wong and Dr. Rania Dempsey as they chat about the science behind plant-based nutrition and tips on how to get started with some simple lifestyle modifications to improve your overall health. Join us this Wednesday at 11:30am on Facebook Live! Coffee Conversations with Scientists is a monthly web series that digs into the science behind a health topic making news today. Medical College of Wisconsin | 8701 Watertown Plank Road | Milwaukee, WI 53226 | United States |