Coronavirus cases are spreading like anything and even the developed countries have failed to control it. The uncertainty about this virus and its spread are causing a big hurdle in eliminating the virus completely. But there is one thing that could help that is by eating healthy.
As you know, the human immune system fights against all pathogenic attacks and prevents from catching an infection. A research study shows that improved nutritional guide improves the function of the immune system.
A diet that is enriched with A, B, C, D, and E, and certain minerals such as iron, selenium, and zinc can help to fight against coronavirus infection.
Vitamin A- it improves the inner lining and structure of the skin as well as the gut. It also maintains the structure or respiratory system and acts as the first barrier in case of any foreign attack on the body. It is responsible for antibody production which could fight against the pathogens i.e. coronavirus in case of an infection.
The natural sources of vitamin A are eggs, nuts, whole grains, tofu, legumes, and cheese. Some vegetables such as pumpkin and carrots are loaded with a natural pigment called beta-carotene which is later on converted into vitamin A by the body.
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Vitamin B- vitamin B6, B9, and B12 are directly involved in immune response in case of a pathogenic attack. These vitamins produce and control the activity of Natural killers or NK cells”. These NK cells attack the pathogens and initiate a process called “apoptosis”.
The natural sources of vitamin B6 and B9 include leafy vegetables, nuts, chicken, fruits, meat, and cereals. Vitamin B12 can be obtained from animal products such as meat and dairy products.
Vitamins C and Vitamin E- these vitamins help to prevent oxidative stress. This oxidative stress shows up whenever the body experiences an imbalanced level of free radicals an antioxidant inside the human body. The free radicals otherwise can cause damage to cell walls and internal inflammation, leading to a number of health complications. Adding vitamin C and vitamin E helps to prevent the body from oxidative stress buildup. These two produce cells that are a part of natural immunity i.e neutrophils, lymphocytes and phagocytes, all of which are helpful in case of a coronavirus attack.
The natural sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, broccoli, berries, tomatoes, etc and vitamin E can be obtained from nuts, vegetable oils, and green veggies.
Vitamin D- is required to attack and kill the pathogens in case of microbial infection. The natural source of vitamin D is sunlight which allows the human body to yield this vitamin from various food sources i.e. dairy. In case someone has is suffering from a vitamin D deficiency, the only thing that could help is dietary supplements.
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Minerals (Iron, zinc, selenium)- all of these minerals are required by the body to perform its functions well. Iron, for example, helps to kill and eliminate pathogens from the body. It also helps in enzyme regulation. Zinc is required to maintain the structural integrity of all cellular linings. Zinc and selenium both could act as antioxidants and prevent oxidative damage.
The natural sources of iron are meat, legumes, grains. Zinc can be obtained from seafood sources, nuts and meats. Selenium is typically found in nuts and mushrooms.
All in all these nutrients are required for overall good health. In the events of the recent coronavirus outbreak, it is necessary to take care of your diet and make sure that one is eating a sufficient amount of these necessary vitamins and minerals. Pregnant women, children, and older adults are at a higher risk of coronavirus thus require special dietary guidelines to follow.