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How supplements protect against COVID-19
Eating a healthy diet and taking certain supplements could be a safe and inexpensive way to help our immune systems fight COVID-19 and other acute respiratory diseases. A recent study has examined the effect of various vitamins and micronutrients on protection against viruses.
A study at Oregon State University found that supplements containing vitamins C and D and other micronutrients appear to be helpful in helping the human body fight COVID-19 and other acute respiratory illnesses. The results of the study were published in the English magazine “Nutrients”.
This is how we support our immune system in the fight against COVID-19
When people take vitamin C and D and other micronutrient supplements, it can help the immune system fight COVID-19 and other acute respiratory illnesses. Therefore, in addition to hygiene requirements and vaccination recommendations, clear nutritional recommendations must also be made in the health system to counter the spread of infections, the researchers emphasize.
Healthy nutrition supports the immune system.
Worldwide, more than 2.5 million people die of acute respiratory infections each year. “There is now a wealth of data showing the role healthy eating plays in supporting the immune system.” As a society, we have to get this message across … better, “reports study author Professor Adrian Gombart of the Oregon State University College of Science in a press release on the study results.
Which vitamins are particularly important?
Certain fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals play a key role in supporting the immune system. In particular, vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish, called docosahexaenoic acid, also known as DHA, are of crucial importance for immune function.
What do vitamins D and C do?
“The role that vitamins C and D play in immunity is particularly well known,” continues Professor Gombart. Vitamin C is involved in various aspects of immunity, including the growth and function of immune cells and the production of antibodies. Vitamin D receptors on immune cells also influence their function. This means that vitamin D has a profound effect on your response to infections.
People often don’t consume enough nutrients
“The problem is that people just don’t get enough of these nutrients. This could destroy your resistance to infection. As a result, we will see an increase in disease and all the additional burdens associated with these diseases, “added the study author.
Dosages should be increased
That’s why researchers not only recommend a daily multivitamin, but also 200 milligrams or more of vitamin C. This value is higher than the diet guidelines, but is still considered safe. The researchers also recommend taking 2,000 international units of vitamin D.
Influenza kills hundreds of thousands of people each year
Taking supplements could make a big difference when it comes to protecting yourself from disease, the researchers report. For example, millions of people are hospitalized each year from the flu alone, and several hundred thousand die worldwide.
Standard procedures to stop the spread of respiratory viruses.
“To curb the spread and impact of respiratory viruses, a number of standard public health procedures have been developed: wash your hands regularly, avoid contact with people with symptoms of infection, and cover your nose and mouth when you cough,” Professor Grombart explains. There are annual vaccination campaigns for certain viruses like the flu.
We need complementary strategies.
Professor Gombart emphasizes that current public health practices such as contact restrictions, hygiene, and vaccination are important and effective, but complementary strategies are needed. A nutritional focus on the immune system could help minimize the effects of many types of infections.
Are we not doing enough?
“The current situation with COVID-19 and the number of people dying from other respiratory infections make it clear that we are not doing enough. We strongly encourage health authorities to include nutritional strategies in their arsenal, “added the professor. (how)
Sources:
- Philip C. Calder, Anitra C. Carr, Adrian F. Gombart, Manfred Eggersdorfer: Optimal nutritional status for a well-functioning immune system is an important factor in protecting against viral, nutrient infections (published April 23, 2020 ), Nutrients
- Dietary supplements are an important weapon in fighting COVID-19, other respiratory conditions, Oregon State University (released April 23, 2020), Oregon State University
Important note:
This article contains general information only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It cannot replace a visit to the doctor.
