We are in the middle of a global outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus. It started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. This virus affects both the upper and lower respiratory tracts, causing viral pneumonia named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
According to an article on Europe PMC, the elderly, men and those with chronic conditions are more likely to succumb to the COVID-19 virus.
Inflammation is associated with aging. It is the body’s initial response to COVID-19 infection. This has led to overwhelming cases of respiratory failure among the elderly.
Two-thirds of reported cases are men (73% vs 27%) and they are 1.5 times more likely to die (2.8% vs 1.7%). This is because of a difference in the anti-viral immunity of men and women caused by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
The WHO guidelines on COVID-19 prevention are wearing a mask, sanitizing or washing hands, and keeping social distance.
But some cannot follow these guidelines. Not that they don’t want to, but they can’t. These are persons living with mental illness.
I’m a caregiver to a parent who has a mental illness. It is futile making them wear a mask when going out, keep social distance, or even wash their hands.
I had to find a way of protecting them from this virus since their age alone puts them in the high-risk category.
In my research, I found a few ways to boost the immunity of a high-risk individual.
1. Supplement with Zinc
An article published on PubMed Central discusses the potential of zinc as a prevention and a cure in the treatment of COVID-19.
Zinc is an important element in the development and function of the immune system. It is antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative.
Zinc deficiency causes 16% of all respiratory infections worldwide. Risk groups described for Covid-19 (the elderly and patients with chronic diseases) have a zinc deficiency. This predisposes them to infection and detrimental progression of COVID-19.
Food’s rich in zinc include oysters, crabs, lobsters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy products.
Plant sources also contain phytates, these reduce the absorbency of zinc. Animal products are therefore better as food sources of zinc.
2. Increase Vitamin C Intake
Evidence shows that Vitamin C can cure the immune system. It stimulates the generation and optimal function of white blood cells. It is a potent antioxidant and an immunomodulator (an agent that changes the immune response or the function of the immune system).
Age weakens the immune system. The elderly must meet their Vitamin C recommended daily intake to strengthen their immunity.
A controlled study was done with elderly participants who had pneumonia. Results showed that Vitamin C supplementation improved respiratory function.
My parent also smokes cigarettes. Smokers and those exposed to second-hand smoke usually have a vitamin C deficiency. This is because smoking increases oxidative stress in body cells and the metabolism of vitamin C.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient the body cannot store. It is important to meet the required daily intake through diet or supplementation.
Food sources include citrus fruits, berries, kiwis, guavas, bell peppers, and green leafy vegetables.
3. Add Vitamin D to Their Diet
The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin produces vitamin D. It has an antiviral effect, is an anti-inflammatory, and is an immunomodulator.
Age and melanin lower the skin’s ability to absorb Vitamin D from the sun.
A recent analysis reported that people with Vitamin D deficiency had a 64% risk of community-acquired pneumonia. The low concentrations of Vitamin D compromise respiratory immune function. This may increase the severity and mortality of Covid-19 infection.
Food sources of Vitamin D include fatty fish, mushrooms, eggs, and soy.
Conclusion
A cure for COVID-19 is yet to be found and made available to the public. Having a way to boost the immunity of a high-risk individual who cannot take the necessary precautions is quite a reprieve.
Using supplements is recommended when the required nutrient levels are not obtained from other sources. Increasing the intake of these nutrients will boost immunity and reduce the severity of COVID-19 infection.
Consult your doctor before taking any supplements so as not to exceed the recommended daily intake.