COVID-19: Natural Remedies, Healthful or Hype?

There are two very important ways you can protect yourself are to reduce exposure and strengthen your immunity.

1) Reduce exposure by washing your hands routinely, cleaning frequently touched surfaces (think keyboards, cellphones, doorknobs), staying home when you are sick and limiting visitors, and covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze (sneeze and cough into your elbow, not your hands).

2) Eat a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.

Nutrients, such as vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D, have a long track record for playing a role in normal immune system function.

Vitamin C 
– Acts as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation caused by cell damage
– Helps direct immune cells to the site of infection to help fight illness
– Activates enzymes that help control the body’s response to severe infection
– Assists in the production of collagen, which can protect against injury to the skin

Zinc
– Activates immune cells that protect the body from infection
– Supports the growth of healthy skin cells
– Has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of some viral illnesses

Vitamin D 
– Keeps bones healthy, which supports the production of immune cells
– Activates immune cells that protect the body from infection – Has been shown in research to reduce the risk of some respiratory infections

Certain extracts have also been shown to help support immune function including garlic, elderberry, and lauric acid (from coconut oil). That being said, no one can strengthen their immune system overnight and there is no evidence that any supplement can prevent coronavirus or reduce symptoms in people who are affected. Many experts are recommending to not spend money on nutritional supplements if they are being taken only for this purpose.

DH/KD