An Overview of Vitamins and Minerals in the Prevention of COVID-19 Infection
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Review

An Overview of Vitamins and Minerals in the Prevention of COVID-19 Infection

Gazi Med J 2020;31(3):523-527 DOI: 10.12996/gmj.2020.123
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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic originated from infection of SARS-CoV-2, is an important international public health concern, threatening to human life. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 can be asymptomatic or can progress to severe disease with crucial respiratory symptoms and important pulmonary changes. The pathological mechanisms underlying of COVID-19 are still unknown, and to date, suitable vaccines or antivirals have not been found for effective treatment for COVID-19. Therefore, reduction of the incidence or severity of infection are of vital importance, and alternative approaches should be explored like nutritional strategies for supporting immune functions. Nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may be preventive or attenuant the inflammatory outcomes related to COVID-19. In this review, an overview of some vitamins and minerals is presented in the prevention and management of COVID-19 infection. In particular, we focused on the potential role of micronutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc and selenium in all therapeutics, including prevention strategies and mitigation interventions for COVID-19.

Keywords: COVID-19, immune response, micronutrients, SARS-CoV-2, trace elements, viral infection