Relationship Between Coronavirus, Nutrition and the Immune System

Women‍‍`s Corner
December 22, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has focused attention on the role of the system , with “experts” and articles urging people to shop for supplements or eat particular foods to “turbocharge” their immune systems.

The truth is more subtle. As highlighted recently by the planet Health Organization, a healthy lifestyle makes all bodily functions work better, including immunity. Having a healthy diet, including many fruits and vegetables, may be a key component of a healthy lifestyle and plays an important role in supporting a well-functioning and effective immune system to assist protect against infection and other diseases.

How does the system work?

The system is one among the foremost complex bodily systems, made from a network of cells, molecules, tissues and organs all working together to guard the body. This complexity means it can't be modified acutely by a selected nutritional intervention. Rather, adhering to a healthy diet provides ongoing support to the immune system and should even delay the method of immunosenescence (the natural gradual deterioration of the system as we get older).

Can nutrition boost your immune system?

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic British Dietetic Association recently published a statement:

“Simply put, you can't ‘boost’ your system through diet, and no specific food or supplement will prevent you catching COVID-19/Coronavirus. Good hygiene practice remains the best means of avoiding infection.”

There are many nutrients that are involved the traditional functioning of the immune system, which is why maintaining a healthy diet is that the best thanks to support immune function. Important nutrients for effective immune function are:

- Copper

- Folate

- Iron

- Selenium

- Zinc

- Vitamins A, B6, B12, C and D

No one food is suggested over another and eating a spread of foods will help to take care of a healthy diet. The immuno-protection of the many of those nutrients is predicated on their antioxidant capacity (oxidation may be a reaction which will damage cells) which is lost if consumed in excess.It is important to consult a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.

What is the guidance on protecting your immune system?

Our Cancer Prevention Recommendations are the foremost suitable first line of defence in supporting the system against infection, including COVID-19, also as protecting against cancer:

- Be a healthy weight

- Be physically active

- Eat wholegrains, fruits, vegetables and beans

- Limit fast foods

- Limit red and processed meat

- Limit sugar sweetened drinks

- Limit alcohol consumption

- Don’t believe supplements

- Breastfeed your baby, if you'll

For protection against COVID-19, following hygiene rules is vital . it's also important to get enough sleep and avoid smoking.

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Nutrition and cancer survivors :

The European Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) position statement highlights that the nutritional needs of cancer patients should be adequately met and through a diet , personalised for every patient’s condition and wishes .