World Malaria Day 2021

Team Udayavani, Apr 25, 2021, 11:51 AM IST

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April 25 is observed as World Malaria Day globally. In May 2007, World Health Organisation introduced World Malaria Day as a part of their initiative to raise awareness of malaria, worldwide.

For over 10,000 years, Malaria has been a serious concern, and statistics state that around 20,00,000 people become victims of malaria every year.

This year’s theme is ‘Reaching the zero malaria target.’

WHO celebrates the achievement of those countries that are on the verge to eliminate the disease, as these countries stand as an inspiration that we can overcome this deadly disease.

Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and this parasite spreads to the blood vessels of humans through the bite of female anopheles mosquitoes known as malaria vectors.

The crucial aspect of tackling malaria is diet.

Below are foods that one must eat to tackle malaria:

1. Papaya leaf extract and raw papaya have antimalarial properties and aid in increasing the platelet count.
2. Drink tender coconut water, sugarcane juice, pear-pomegranate juice, electoral water, glucose water to treat malaria.
3. Have carrot and bell pepper soup, broccoli broth, basil soup and make sure you consume adequate anti-oxidant-rich vegetables including cabbage, okra, bottle gourd, etc.
4. Intake of flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds is important to ensure the supply of omega-3 fatty acids as they reduce inflammation in the body.

Avoid consuming whole grain cereals, leafy vegetables, or any high fiber foods. Stay away from packaged, oily, or junk food as they meddle with digestion and weaken immunity.