COVID-19 AND NUTRITION
Authors: Krekhovska-Lepiavko O. , Lokay B. , Yastremska S. , Reha N. , Bushtynska O. , Danchak S. 
Published: September 2021

Summary. Currently Covid-19 pandemic is a leading challenge across the globe. It is mandatory to attain and maintain good nutritional status to fight against virus. Nutritional status of individual is affected by several factors such as age, sex, health status, life style and medications. Nutritional status of individuals has been used as resilience towards destabilization during this COVID-19 pandemic. Optimal nutrition and dietary nutrient intake impact the immune system, therefore the only sustainable way to survive in current context is to strengthen the immune system. There is no evidence found that supplement can cure the immune system except Vit C, which is one of the best way to improve immune system. A proper diet can ensure that the body is in proper state to defeat the virus. However along with the dietary management guidelines the food safety management and good food practices is compulsory. This article explores the importance of nutrition to boost immunity and gives some professional and authentic dietary guidelines about nutrition and food safety to withstand COVID-19.

The aim of the study – to analyze and systematize the literature data about the influence of nutrition on the manifestation of COVID-19 infection.

Materials and Methods. The study uses publications of the world scientific literature on COVID-19 infection, in particular the causes and mechanisms of its development, treatment, complications and its consequences as well as the influence of different nutrients and nutrasuticals on the course of COVID-19. This review highlights the nutritional interventions to increase the immune response in the body during viral infections, especially considering the novel coronavirus pandemic. Due to their beneficial effects on general healthcare and disease prophylaxis, nutraceuticals have been gaining more and more importance lately.

Results. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the nutritional status of individuals has been used as a measure of resilience toward destabilization. Optimal nutrition and dietary nutrient intake impact the immune system through gene expression, cell activation, and signaling molecules modification. In addition, various dietary ingredients are determinants of gut microbial composition and subsequently shape the immune responses in the body. Therefore the existing evidence suggests that the only sustainable way to survive in the current situation is to strengthen the immune system. An adequate intake of zinc, iron, and vitamins A, B 12, B6, C, and E is essential for the maintenance of immune function. In the current scenario, COVID-19 has imposed a new set of challenges for the individual to maintain a healthy diet. The state of self-isolation, lockdown, and social distancing are important measures to flattening the curve of the disease, although these measures have severe repercussions on an individual’s life. The act of confining to one’s home has significant impacts on one’s health, including changes in eating patterns, sleeping habits, and physical activity. It would promote sedentary behaviors that affect mental and physical health and lead to an increased risk of obesity. Fear and anxiety may also cause changes in dietary habits leading to unhealthy dietary patterns and less desire to eat or with lessened enjoyment during eating. Micronutrients are dietary components that may contribute substantially to a robust immune system. Essential micronutrients like vitamins  A, D, E, C, B6, B12, and folate and trace elements such as iron, zinc, and selenium, available in a variety of fresh animal- and plant-based foods, aid the body’s ability to fight infections.

Conclusions. COVID-19 became the most challenging pandemic influencing all countries worldwide. A proper and healthy diet can ensure a robust immune system that can resist any onslaught by the virus. A certain amount of particular nutrient saturates into cells and prevents any kind of nutritional deficiency. Individuals consuming well-balanced diets appear to be safer with better immune systems and lower incidence of chronic diseases and infections.