Early Nutritional Interventions with Zinc, Selenium and Vitamin D for Raising Anti-Viral Resistance Against Progressive COVID-19

Abstract

Objectives: The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) conveys a serious threat globally to health and economy because of a lack of vaccines and specific treatments. A common factor for conditions that predispose for serious progress is a low-grade inflammation, e.g., as seen in metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart failure, to which micronutrient deficiencies may contribute. The aim of the present article was to explore the usefulness of early micronutrient intervention, with focus on zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, to relieve escalation of COVID-19.

Methods: We conducted an online search for articles published in the period 2010-2020 on zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, and corona and related virus infections.

Results: There were a few studies providing direct evidence on associations between zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, and COVID-19. Adequate supply of zinc, selenium, and vitamin D is essential for resistance to other viral infections, immune function, and reduced inflammation. Hence, it is suggested that nutrition intervention securing an adequate status might protect against the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome - coronavirus-2) and mitigate the course of COVID-19.

Conclusion: We recommended initiation of adequate supplementation in high-risk areas and/or soon after the time of suspected infection with SARS-CoV-2. Subjects in high-risk groups should have high priority as regards this nutritive adjuvant therapy, which should be started prior to administration of specific and supportive medical measures.

Keywords: COVID-19; coenzyme Q10; corona virus; micronutrients; nutritional; selenium; therapy; vitamin A; vitamin D; zinc.

Figure 1

Hypothesized effect of supplements (Zn, Se, and vitamin D) on intensity of inflammation in patients with COVID-19: A severe course of the disease, which may occur in cases with pre-infectious low-grade inflammation and inadequate status of micronutrients, is characterized by an escalation of the inflammation into a cytokine storm (dotted line). Supplementation with Se, Zn, and vitamins when given at an early stage after infection is anticipated to act protectively by improving immune reactivity and supporting adequate inflammatory response, leading to lower risk of cytokine storm and less severe course of COVID-19, as indicated by the dashed line.