Prebiotics may help treat or prevent COVID-19 by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10. For example, consuming butyrylated high-amylose maize starch increases IL-10, likely because prebiotics strengthen the gastrointestinal-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and boost short-chain fatty acid production. Additionally, prebiotics like wheat bran elevate butyrate levels, which lowers inflammation and improves respiratory symptoms in conditions such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.

Using Prebiotics to Treat or Prevent COVID-19

Aged garlic extract increased IL-10 In peripheral blood monocytes by inhibiting TNF-a and IL-6, which are inflammatory cytokines that play a key role in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. 

Aged garlic extract effects on  IL-10 and the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2  

Propolis led to the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-6 and IL-1 beta.

Propolis leads to reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines

IL-6 is one of the most prominent biomarkers that can function as a predictor of COVID-19 mortality.  Because of its increased concentration observed in older men, it is hypothesized that it may pre-dispose them to a serious SARS-CoV-2 infection and ultimately COVID-19 related mortality.  

Michigan State University

Increased IL-6 concentration in the blood is a hallmark of the aging process, especially in older men.  This makes the elderly more prone to inflammation, autoimmune responses, and other immunological outcomes.  It has been shown that chronic, elevated levels of IL-6 allow for viral infections and lung tissue damage.  

Increased IL-6 Concentration in Aging

Ahlawat, S., & Sharma, K. K. (2020). Immunological co-ordination between gut and lungs in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Virus Research, 198103.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168170220308649
doi: 10.1016/j.virusres.2020.198103

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