Abstract
A disproportionate number of COVID-19 cases affect older, minority populations. Obese older adults are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 complications and lower survival rates, and minority older adults often experience higher rates of obesity. A plant-based diet intervention may improve COVID-19-related modifiable risk factors for obesity. Encouraging the consumption of plant-based diets comprising vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts by utilizing community outreach strategies and digital technology can contribute to improving COVID-19 risk factors among this population.
Highlights
The risk of severe illness with COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at the highest risk of hospitalization or death [1]
Non-Hispanic individuals are disproportionately affected by the pandemic, with 1.1 times higher likelihood of contracting COVID-19, 2.8 times higher hospitalization rates, and 1.9 times higher death rates reported
Hispanic individuals living in the District of Columbia make up 11% of the population but accounted for 29% of all COVID-19–related deaths [4]
Summary
The risk of severe illness with COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at the highest risk of hospitalization or death [1]. COVID-19; coronavirus; older adult; plant-based diet; eating patterns; whole foods; Mediterranean diet; obesity; pandemic; ethnic minorities; telehealth; digital technology; racial disparities; aging Identifying achievable self-management behaviors that promote and maintain a plant-based diet has been shown to decrease adiposity, BMI, and hemoglobin A1C levels in certain minority groups and older adults [9,10].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
