Blackmores Institute

In addition to a number of standard public health practices, such as regular hand washing, avoiding people showing symptoms of infection and covering coughs, the review claims that nutritional strategies to support optimal functioning of the immune system should be part of public health discussion around immunity and infection given the well-established role of nutrition in immune function.“Acute respiratory tract infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe, as illustrated by both seasonal influenza epidemics, and the recent outbreak of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection.”“Several vitamins, including vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folate; and trace elements, including zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper, play important and complementary roles in supporting both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Deficiencies or suboptimal status in micronutrients negatively affect immune function and can decrease resistance to infections,” the authors said.While acknowledging that optimal intake via diet can be difficult to accomplish in the general population, the authors reviewed existing data to suggest that supplementing to recommended daily allowances (RDA) for many vitamins and micronutrients could lead to better protection from infections.“Intakes should follow recommended upper safety limits set by expert authorities, such as the European Food Safety Authority and, in the United States, the IOM. Thus, a multivitamin and mineral supplement that supplies the basic micronutrient requirements (e.g., RDA) for vitamins and minerals is recommended in addition to the consumption of a well-balanced diet.”“We recommend supplementation above the RDA for vitamins C and D. As recent meta-analyses concluded significant reductions in the risk and impact of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections such as the common cold and pneumonia, including disease severity and risk of death in older patients, with vitamin C supplementation,” the authors added.The review offered a third recommendation related to the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory properties of these fatty acids can support resolution of inflammation of the respiratory tract.“Public health practices, such as vaccinations and hygiene measures, are important measures that help limit the spread and impact of infections, including against acute respiratory viruses. However, the present situation with SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe outcomes of COVID-19 and the annual morbidity and mortality figures for respiratory infections overall make it clear that these practices alone are not sufficient.”“We, therefore, strongly encourage public health officials to also include nutritional strategies in their arsenal to improve public health and to limit the impact of seasonal and emerging viral infections,” the authors concluded.Source:Nutrients. 2020. DOI: <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/4/1181 ">10.3390/nu12041181</a>

Authors of a new review are calling for public health officials to include nutritional strategies in their recommendations to improve public health.

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