Ranil Jayawardena 1, Piumika Sooriyaarachchi 2, Michail Chourdakis 3, Chandima Jeewandara 4, Priyanga Ranasinghe 5
Abstract
Background and aims: Balanced nutrition which can help in maintaining immunity is essential for prevention and management of viral infections. While data regarding nutrition in coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are not available, in this review, we aimed to evaluate evidence from previous clinical trials that studied nutrition-based interventions for viral diseases (with special emphasis on respiratory infections), and summarise our observations.
Methods: A systematic search strategy was employed using keywords to search the literature in 3 key medical databases: PubMed®, Web of Science® and SciVerse Scopus®. Studies were considered eligible if they were controlled trials in humans, measuring immunological parameters, on viral and respiratory infections. Clinical trials on vitamins, minerals, nutraceuticals and probiotics were included.
Results: Among trace elements, selenium and zinc have also shown favourable immune-modulatory effects in viral respiratory infections. Several nutraceuticals and probiotics may also have some role in enhancing immune functions. Micronutrients may be beneficial in nutritionally depleted elderly population.
Beta 1:3/1:6D Glucan:
J Am Coll Nutr
2012 Aug;31(4):295-300.
doi: 10.1080/07315724.2012.10720441.
