Coronavirus: Can vitamins and minerals protect you from COVID-19? Find out here

COVID-19 has become one of the greatest health concerns of 2020 and while scientists and medical researchers continue to develop possible treatments for the same, many are searching for a more natural resort. Multiple studies in the past have claimed that common nutrients and vitamins could help ward off infections of the novel coronavirus. However, while nothing has been confirmed and much remains under observation, there's yet a lot to be determined in terms of its effectiveness in treating the deadly virus.

With the onset of the novel coronavirus, people have paid extra attention to the role of the immune system, with medical experts urging people to increase their intake of micronutrient supplementation. However, nothing has been confirmed by anyone and much remains under review. While maintaining social distancing, wearing a mask and disinfecting surfaces are some of the most primary solutions to prevent the spread of the virus, doctors continue to encourage their patients to keep their immune system strong by eating well and getting the proper nutrients and vitamins.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps in reducing inflammation in the body. It has been successful in preventing certain viral and bacterial infections in the past and therefore, has been deemed crucial in treating illnesses. However, there's not much that has been determined about it's link with COVID-19. According to a review of research on the topic published in the latest issue of the journal Nutrition, vitamin C might help prevent Covid-19 and also lessen the inflammatory reactions behind some severe Covid-19 cases. However, they do not confirm anything.

Similarly, vitamin D also helps in boosting immunity. As per a 2019 review of existing clinical trials, it was claimed that vitamin D supplements can reduce the severity of acute respiratory tract infections in hospitalized patients. Additionally, another study found a link between low levels of vitamin D and higher percentages of Covid-19 cases and mortality.

Zinc is an essential mineral that helps the body fight harmful bacterial and viral infections. While the human body requires zinc to develop and activate T-lymphocytes, which is a part of the immune system, there has been no solid evidence to recommend it either for or against the use of zinc for the treatment of Covid-19.

While you must continue taking sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals to boost your immunity and maintain a strong healthy body, it is also important that you do not completely rely on these supplementations. That being said, it is crucial that you continue maintaining social distancing and follow all necessary guidelines to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.