COVID-19 has been with us for well over a year, but there is still no specific treatment regimen for the disease. While there are multiple clinical trials under way for potential treatments, preliminary results are conflicting and show mixed efficacy.
With an urgent need for more preventive strategies and alternate treatments, a recent research paper investigates previously published studies for evidence supporting the effectiveness of dietary vitamins and minerals in reducing symptoms and disease progression.
The researchers found evidence that zinc and vitamin C have potential in reducing the inflammatory response associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
They also found that folate and vitamin D may have a role in making it more difficult for the virus to enter host cells.
The researchers conclude that further research should be conducted into the use of nutritional supplements involving natural compounds with known safety records, such as zinc, folate, vitamin C and vitamin D.
Evidence in existing literature suggests that Vitamin D in particular could be a safe, effective and inexpensive way to lessen the impact of the disease.
At PIM we have a particular interest in the role of nutrition in our health and wellbeing. Contact us to learn more.
This research was published in the journal Current Nutrition Reports – click here to read the paper.