Short Communication
Year: 2020 | Month: August | Volume: 10 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 96-104
Nutrition as a Key Weapon in Strengthening Immune System Relative to Pandemic Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): A Review
Vasundhra Chand
PhD Research Scholar, Department of Food and Nutrition, Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi,
New Delhi- 110001.
ABSTRACT
The Lethal novel coronavirus, COVID-19, caused by specific Coronavirus (SARS-CoV 2) began in Wuhan, Hubei, China in December 2019. The emerging infectious viral diseases with pathogenic properties present a major public health issue worldwide. It has been spreading expeditiously across the globe and recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The review focused on strengthening the immune system with plant-based food of all age groups to counter novel coronavirus. The immune system is involved in the detection of the host against a variety of agents from viruses to parasitic worms, thereby protecting the integrity of the body. Even though no vaccine has been developed yet, healthy dietary patterns will improve immunometabolism. A well-balanced diet should be maintained for the normal functioning of the immune system with adequate intakes of micronutrient and macronutrient. Diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, pulses and unprocessed foods is a key component, which provides vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants and plays a vital role in preserving the immune system against infection and other diseases. Nonetheless, there is a need for preparedness of global health security by optimizing the nutritional status that is crucial for a healthy immune system to prevent COVID-19 by staying physically active, good hygiene practice, and staying home.
Key words: Novel coronavirus – pandemic, nutrition, immune system, micronutrient, macronutrient.