- Vitamin C has been found to reduce the length and severity of colds. Although it is unclear how vitamin C may affect COVID-19, its apparent ability to prevent other upper respiratory tract infections leaves it as a viable candidate in nutrition. 
- Researchers have proposed that individuals lacking in vitamin D may be at higher risk for COVID-19 infection, especially in the winter. Though this connection is not fully realized, there seems to be a link between vitamin D and severity of the respiratory infection. 
- Vitamin E plays a larger role in the immune system. It is believed the elderly, who are at high risk from COVID-19 infection, may especially benefit from a diet rich in vitamin E. 

Kenyon College

Noncommunicable diseases, also known as chronic diseases, are noninfectious and may be caused by an individual's lifestyle, genetics, or environment. There is a direct link between noncommunicable diseases and the severity of viral infections. 

As such, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are thought to exacerbate the severity of COVID-19. Researchers propose the best way to combat COVID-19 for individuals with noncommunicable diseases is based in lifestyle changes, with a focus mostly on diet. See: 

- The Mediterranean Diet 
- Vitamins C, D, and E 
- Zinc, Copper, and Fiber 

Noncommunicable Diseases

Zabetakis, I., Lordan, R., Norton, C., & Tsoupras, A. (2020). COVID-19: The Inflammation Link and the Role of Nutrition in Potential Mitigation. Nutrients, 12(5), 1466. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12051466

COVID-19: The Inflammation Link and the Role of Nutrition in Potential Mitigation

The Mediterranean Diet is characterized by consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, etc. Fermented dairy products and red meat are consumed in low amounts. 
Ultimately, this diet is high in anti-inflammatory properties, and is thus a great tool for preventing noncommunicable diseases and, by extension, COVID-19. 

The Mediterranean Diet

Vitamins C, D, and E

- Zinc has been found to improve overall immune health and possibly shorten the length and severity of respiratory infections. Researchers propose that zinc may combat COVID-19 by preventing viral replication and lessening symptoms. 
- Copper deficiencies have been linked to lessened immune response and a higher susceptibility to infections.  It is also believed that copper may combat lung infections. 
- Many diets are lacking in fiber, though fiber has been found to boost the immune system and benefit useful gut bacteria. In mice, fiber was found to increase the chance of recovery from influenza. 

Zinc, Copper, and Fiber

Vitamins A, B, C, D, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, Se, Zn, and Fe supplementation can all be considered for potential nutritional interventions.

Learn Before

Related