The Effect of Nutrients Intake with an Emphasis on Immune-Boostings in Patients with COVID-19

The immune system plays a vital role in preventing and treating viral infections. One of the most important regulators affecting immune system is nutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the dietary intake of nutrients, especially immune-boosting ones in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods: Patients with COVID-19 infection (n=50) who were admitted to the COVID-19 Unit of Shahid Jalil Hospital in Yasouj, Iran were enrolled. Nutrients intake was calculated using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Demographic information, history of underlying diseases, and clinical symptoms were also collected using a questionnaire completed through face-to-face interviews with the patients or their companions. Results: The mean intake of vitamins A (p<0.001) and D (p<0.001) was lower than the dietary intake recommendation (DRI). Also the mean intake of vitamins A (p<0.001), C (p<0.001), and D (p<0.001), omega-3 fatty acid (p<0.001), and protein (p<0.001) was significantly lower than the recommended amounts for supporting the optimal immune function. Conclusion: Although many nutrients were in the DRI range, more than recommended amount might be needed to strengthen the immune system and reduce the course of treatment for infectious diseases such as COVID-19. This may indicate the importance of supplement therapy or nutritional therapy in combating such viral infections as COVID-19.