1
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Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2468. [PMID: 38082300 PMCID: PMC10712193 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17229-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Randomized trials have shown that vitamin C shortens the duration of common colds. Some trials reported greater effects on severe cold symptoms compared with mild symptoms. This review systematically compares the effects of vitamin C on severe and mild common cold symptoms. METHODS We included all placebo-controlled trials of orally administered vitamin C in doses of at least 1 g/day for the common cold for people in good health at baseline. The analysis was restricted to trials which reported both the total duration of the common cold, and the severity of the common cold measured using severity scales, the duration of more severe stages of the cold, or proxies for severe colds such as days indoors. Findings were pooled using the inverse variance, fixed effect options of the metacont function of the R package meta to calculate the ratio of means estimate. RESULTS Fifteen comparisons from 10 trials which reported both mild and severe symptoms were identified. All trials were randomized and double-blind. Compared to placebo, vitamin C significantly decreased the severity of the common cold by 15% (95% CI 9-21%). The direct comparison of the effect of vitamin C on mild and severe symptoms was limited to five comparisons which found that vitamin C had a significant benefit on the duration of severe symptoms. In this subset, there was a significant difference in the size of the effect of vitamin C on the overall duration of colds versus the duration of severe colds (P = 0.002), and vitamin C had no significant effect on the duration of mild symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The common cold is the leading cause of acute morbidity and a major cause of absenteeism from work and school. However, absenteeism is dependent on the severity of symptoms. The finding that vitamin C may have a greater effect on more severe measures of the common cold is therefore important. Further research on the therapeutic effects of vitamin C on the common cold should measure outcomes of differing levels of severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, POB 20, Helsinki, FI, FI-00014, Finland.
| | - Elizabeth Chalker
- Biological Data Science Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
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2
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Doaei S, Mardi A, Zare M. Role of micronutrients in the modulation of immune system and platelet activating factor in patients with COVID-19; a narrative review. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1207237. [PMID: 37781112 PMCID: PMC10540693 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1207237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary micronutrients may play important roles in the improvement of the immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to assess the effect of micronutrients on platelet activating factor (PAF) and immunity with a special focus on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods All paper published in English on the effects of micronutrients including fat soluble vitamins, water soluble vitamins, and minerals on PAF, immunity, and COVID-19 were collected from online valid databases. Results Vitamin A may modulate the expression of PAF-receptor gene in patients with COVID-19. Vitamin D may modulate inflammatory response through influencing PAF pathway. Vitamin E may improve COVID-19 related heart injuries by exert anti-PAF activities. Vitamin C status may have PAF related anti-inflammatory and micro-thrombotic effects in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Furthermore, some trace elements such as copper, selenium, and iron may have key roles in strengthens immunity by inactivate PAF acetyl hydrolase. Conclusion This narrative review study highlighted the importance of micronutrients in the improvement of immune function through modulation of PAF in patients with COVID-19. Further longitudinal studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Doaei
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afrouz Mardi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Maryam Zare
- Department of Nutrition, Khalkhal University of Medical Sciences, Khalkhal, Iran
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3
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Park JH, Lee Y, Choi M, Park E. The Role of Some Vitamins in Respiratory-related Viral Infections: A Narrative Review. Clin Nutr Res 2023; 12:77-89. [PMID: 36793782 PMCID: PMC9900078 DOI: 10.7762/cnr.2023.12.1.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to find out the effect of vitamins on respiratory-related viral infections, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), through the literature reviews. From January 2000 to June 2021, the studies (cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, case-control studies, randomized control trials) related to vitamins (vitamin A, D, E, C, B6, folate, and B12) and COVID-19/severe acute respiratory syndrome/Middle East respiratory syndrome/cold/influenza were selected from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane libraries and analyzed. The relationship between vitamins and virus-related respiratory diseases was identified. Through the review, 39 studies were selected on vitamin D, one study on vitamin E, 11 studies on vitamin C, and 3 studies on folate. Regarding COVID-19, 18 studies on vitamin D, 4 studies on vitamin C, and 2 studies on folate showed significant effects of the intake of these nutrients in preventing COVID-19. Regarding colds and influenza, 3 studies on vitamin D, 1 study on vitamin E, 3 studies on vitamin C, and 1 study on folate demonstrated that the intake of these nutrients significantly prevents these diseases. Therefore, this review suggested the intake of vitamins D, E, C, and folate is important for preventing respiratory diseases related to viruses, such as COVID-19, colds, and influenza. The relationship between these nutrients and virus-related respiratory diseases should be continuously monitored in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hee Park
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyungnam University, Changwon 51767, Korea
| | - Yunjung Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyungnam University, Changwon 51767, Korea
| | - Mijoo Choi
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyungnam University, Changwon 51767, Korea
| | - Eunju Park
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyungnam University, Changwon 51767, Korea
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4
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SENGUPTA P, DUTTA S, SLAMA P, ROYCHOUDHURY S. COVID-19, Oxidative Stress, and Male Reproductive Dysfunctions: Is Vitamin C a Potential Remedy? Physiol Res 2022; 71:47-54. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Few peculiarities have been observed in the etiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), one such being its greater prevalence in men than women partly due to the higher expressions of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) in the male reproductive tissues. Recent scientific reports are in line with some of the evidence-based hypotheses in the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, regarding the involvement of oxidative stress (OS) and oxidant-sensitive pathways in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection-mediated male reproductive disruptions. The seminal dissemination of SARS-CoV-2 or its components, testicular disruptions due to viral infection and oxidative damage in the testis have all been evidenced recently. High-dose of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, have been shown to be a useful treatment for COVID-19 patients, to alleviate systemic inflammation and OS. In addition, vitamin C is a major testicular antioxidant that neutralizes excess reactive oxygen species (ROS), prevents sperm agglutination, prevents lipid peroxidation, recycles vitamin E, and protects against DNA damage. Thus, the present review aims to discuss the mechanism of COVID-19-mediated male reproductive dysfunctions, based on the evidence available so far, and explore the possibility of using vitamin C in alleviating testicular OS and associated damage caused by COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- P SENGUPTA
- Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, Malaysian Allied Health Sciences Academy, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - S DUTTA
- School of Medical Sciences, Bharath Institute of Health Sciences and Research, Chennai, India
| | - P SLAMA
- Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - S ROYCHOUDHURY
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, India
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5
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High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation as a Legitimate Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Prophylaxis in Healthy Subjects—Yes or No? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050979. [PMID: 35267953 PMCID: PMC8912816 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C has a number of acitvities that could contribute to its immune-modulating effects. The only question is whether we should provide ourselves with only the right level of it, or do we need much more during a pandemic? The possibility of reducing the incidence of viral diseases in a well-nourished population through the use of dietary supplements based on vitamin C is not supported in the literature. Despite this, the belief that an extra intake of vitamin C can increase the efficacy of the immune system is still popular and vitamin C is advertised as a remedy to prevent infectious disease. This article refers to the justification of the use of vitamin C in high doses as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis in healthy subjects. Does it make sense or not? As it turns out, any effects of vitamin C supplementation may be more prominent when the baseline vitamin C level is low, for example in physically active persons. People with hypovitaminosis C are more likely to respond to vitamin C administration. No studies regarding prevention of COVID-19 with high-dose vitamin C supplementation in healthy subjects were found.
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6
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James PT, Ali Z, Armitage AE, Bonell A, Cerami C, Drakesmith H, Jobe M, Jones KS, Liew Z, Moore SE, Morales-Berstein F, Nabwera HM, Nadjm B, Pasricha SR, Scheelbeek P, Silver MJ, Teh MR, Prentice AM. The Role of Nutrition in COVID-19 Susceptibility and Severity of Disease: A Systematic Review. J Nutr 2021; 151:1854-1878. [PMID: 33982105 PMCID: PMC8194602 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many nutrients have powerful immunomodulatory actions with the potential to alter susceptibility to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, progression to symptoms, likelihood of severe disease, and survival. OBJECTIVE The aim was to review the latest evidence on how malnutrition across all its forms (under- and overnutrition and micronutrient status) may influence both susceptibility to, and progression of, COVID-19. METHODS We synthesized information on 13 nutrition-related components and their potential interactions with COVID-19: overweight, obesity, and diabetes; protein-energy malnutrition; anemia; vitamins A, C, D, and E; PUFAs; iron; selenium; zinc; antioxidants; and nutritional support. For each section we provide: 1) a landscape review of pertinent material; 2) a systematic search of the literature in PubMed and EMBASE databases, including a wide range of preprint servers; and 3) a screen of 6 clinical trial registries. All original research was considered, without restriction to study design, and included if it covered: 1) severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (CoV) 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV (MERS-CoV), or SARS-CoV viruses and 2) disease susceptibility or 3) disease progression, and 4) the nutritional component of interest. Searches took place between 16 May and 11 August 2020. RESULTS Across the 13 searches, 2732 articles from PubMed and EMBASE, 4164 articles from the preprint servers, and 433 trials were returned. In the final narrative synthesis, we include 22 published articles, 38 preprint articles, and 79 trials. CONCLUSIONS Currently there is limited evidence that high-dose supplements of micronutrients will either prevent severe disease or speed up recovery. However, results of clinical trials are eagerly awaited. Given the known impacts of all forms of malnutrition on the immune system, public health strategies to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and undernutrition remain of critical importance. Furthermore, there is strong evidence that prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes will reduce the risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes. This review is registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020186194.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip T James
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zakari Ali
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Andrew E Armitage
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Bonell
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Carla Cerami
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Hal Drakesmith
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Modou Jobe
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Kerry S Jones
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Nutritional Biomarker Laboratory, MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Zara Liew
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie E Moore
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fernanda Morales-Berstein
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen M Nabwera
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Behzad Nadjm
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Sant-Rayn Pasricha
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Pauline Scheelbeek
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matt J Silver
- MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Megan R Teh
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew M Prentice
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
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7
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Saleh G, Ahmed A, Hassanain O, Emad A, Essameldin S, Ragai M, Saad Y. Nutrition in Cancer Patients Positive for COVID-19; Case Series and a Systematic Review of Literature. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:450-462. [PMID: 34080508 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1931363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is making patients vulnerable to diseases by impairing immunity directly or by anticancer therapy. In COVID-19 era, it is mandatory to face cancer with more organized & prompter response. Nutrition plays an important role in prevention & management of cancer patients. The objective of this study is to understand the role of nutrition in cancer patients during Corvid 19 era. We conducted literature searches till May 2020, electronic databases, evidence-based collections, relevant websites and trial registries about SARS-CoV2/COVID-19 and nutrition in cancer patients. Search generated 836 sources; 83/836 sources were relevant. This review summarized role of nutrition in predisposition, prevention and management of COVID-19 in cancer patient and role of vitamins, mineral supplements and microbiota in era of COVID-19. In this review, implementing appropriate nutritional care with vitamins or mineral supplementation & their effect on outcome remain largely unknown. COVID co-infection with cancer whether under chemotherapy or not have worse outcome especially in male adults. Findings may help in creating recommendations on nutritional protocol of management & prevention of complications during ongoing COVID-19 pandemic for all cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulsen Saleh
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt.,Public Health Department, National Nutrition Institute (NNI), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aliaa Ahmed
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Tanta, Egypt
| | - Omneya Hassanain
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Research Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya Emad
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samer Essameldin
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marianne Ragai
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Saad
- Clinical Nutrition Department, 57357 Cancer Children Hospital of Egypt (CCHE), Cairo, Egypt.,Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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8
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Hemilä H, Chalker E. Commentary: The Long History of Vitamin C: From Prevention of the Common Cold to Potential Aid in the Treatment of COVID-19. Front Immunol 2021; 12:659001. [PMID: 33868305 PMCID: PMC8047412 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.659001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elizabeth Chalker
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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9
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Farjana M, Moni A, Sohag AAM, Hasan A, Hannan MA, Hossain MG, Uddin MJ. Repositioning Vitamin C as a Promising Option to Alleviate Complications associated with COVID-19. Infect Chemother 2020; 52:461-477. [PMID: 33263242 PMCID: PMC7779993 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2020.52.4.461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin with pleiotropic functions, ranging from antioxidant to anti-microbial functions. Evidence suggests that vitamin C acts against inflammation, oxidative stress, autophagy chaos, and immune dysfunction. The ability to activate and enhance the immune system makes this versatile vitamin a prospective therapeutic agent amid the current situation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Being highly effective against the influenza virus, causing the common cold, vitamin C may also function against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and its associated complications. Severe infections need higher doses of the vitamin to compensate for the augmented inflammatory response and metabolic demand that commonly occur during COVID-19. Compelling evidence also suggests that a high dose of vitamin C (1.5 g/kg body weight) in inflammatory conditions can result in effective clinical outcomes and thus can be employed to combat COVID-19. However, further studies are crucial to delineate the mechanism underlying the action of vitamin C against COVID-19. The current review aims to reposition vitamin C as an alternative approach for alleviating COVID-19-associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akhi Moni
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun Sohag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Adeba Hasan
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abdul Hannan
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.,Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Korea
| | - Md Golzar Hossain
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Md Jamal Uddin
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.
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10
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Cerullo G, Negro M, Parimbelli M, Pecoraro M, Perna S, Liguori G, Rondanelli M, Cena H, D’Antona G. The Long History of Vitamin C: From Prevention of the Common Cold to Potential Aid in the Treatment of COVID-19. Front Immunol 2020; 11:574029. [PMID: 33193359 PMCID: PMC7655735 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.574029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
From Pauling's theories to the present, considerable understanding has been acquired of both the physiological role of vitamin C and of the impact of vitamin C supplementation on the health. Although it is well known that a balanced diet which satisfies the daily intake of vitamin C positively affects the immune system and reduces susceptibility to infections, available data do not support the theory that oral vitamin C supplements boost immunity. No current clinical recommendations support the possibility of significantly decreasing the risk of respiratory infections by using high-dose supplements of vitamin C in a well-nourished general population. Only in restricted subgroups (e.g., athletes or the military) and in subjects with a low plasma vitamin C concentration a supplementation may be justified. Furthermore, in categories at high risk of infection (i.e., the obese, diabetics, the elderly, etc.), a vitamin C supplementation can modulate inflammation, with potential positive effects on immune response to infections. The impact of an extra oral intake of vitamin C on the duration of a cold and the prevention or treatment of pneumonia is still questioned, while, based on critical illness studies, vitamin C infusion has recently been hypothesized as a treatment for COVID-19 hospitalized patients. In this review, we focused on the effects of vitamin C on immune function, summarizing the most relevant studies from the prevention and treatment of common respiratory diseases to the use of vitamin C in critical illness conditions, with the aim of clarifying its potential application during an acute SARS-CoV2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cerullo
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Negro
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
| | - Mauro Parimbelli
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
| | | | - Simone Perna
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Bahrain, Sakhir, Bahrain
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariangela Rondanelli
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hellas Cena
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D’Antona
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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11
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Cheng RZ, Kogan M, Davis D. Ascorbate as Prophylaxis and Therapy for COVID-19-Update From Shanghai and U.S. Medical Institutions. Glob Adv Health Med 2020; 9:2164956120934768. [PMID: 32733775 PMCID: PMC7372609 DOI: 10.1177/2164956120934768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background No validated treatments have been identified for the COVID-19 pandemic virus; several
are currently in randomized clinical trials. Diagnostic instruments are rapidly
evolving. Symptoms range from those of a common cold to acute respiratory distress
syndrome (ARDS), to sepsis arising from the flood of inflammatory bacterial and viral
pathogens in the blood. Mortality generally arises from cytokine storms of uncontrolled
inflammation, oxidative injury, and damage to the alveolar-capillary barrier, with
secondary bacterial infection. To address the indisputably urgent need for therapeutics
for COVID-19, a specialized interdisciplinary medical panel convened in Shanghai in
March 2020 to consider all relevant clinical and experimental evidence on the possible
utility of intravenous (IV) ascorbate in the treatment of COVID-19-related ARDS. Methods The panel convened multidisciplinary medical experts and reviewed all relevant in
vitro, in vivo, clinical studies and randomized controlled trials on IV ascorbate and
issued a consensus report on 23 March 2020 noting that substantial differences in serum
concentrations of ascorbate are achieved through IV administration in contrast with the
oral route. Findings The Shanghai panel, and a parallel medical group in Guangzhou, are advising the use of
high-dose IV ascorbate for the treatment of ARDS, along with other supportive therapies,
including Vitamin D and zinc. We report preliminary progress in using this treatment for
50 consecutive cases treated in Shanghai hospitals, consistent with earlier reports from
a meta-analysis of the use of IV ascorbate to treat sepsis. We provide an instructive
clinical anecdote regarding a single family where one elderly member with cardiac and
other major comorbidities developed and survived ARDS-related sepsis following daily
treatments that included 15 g of IV ascorbate. None of her adult caregivers who had
ingested between 2 and 10 g of ascorbate daily developed COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mikhail Kogan
- GW Center for Integrative Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia.,Department of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia.,AIM Health Institute, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Devra Davis
- Division of Research and Development, Environmental Health Trust, Teton Village, Wyoming
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12
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Infusino F, Marazzato M, Mancone M, Fedele F, Mastroianni CM, Severino P, Ceccarelli G, Santinelli L, Cavarretta E, Marullo AGM, Miraldi F, Carnevale R, Nocella C, Biondi-Zoccai G, Pagnini C, Schiavon S, Pugliese F, Frati G, d’Ettorre G. Diet Supplementation, Probiotics, and Nutraceuticals in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Scoping Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1718. [PMID: 32521760 PMCID: PMC7352781 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (Sars-CoV-2) global pandemic is a devastating event that is causing thousands of victims every day around the world. One of the main reasons of the great impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on society is its unexpected spread, which has not allowed an adequate preparation. The scientific community is fighting against time for the production of a vaccine, but it is difficult to place a safe and effective product on the market as fast as the virus is spreading. Similarly, for drugs that can directly interfere with viral pathways, their production times are long, despite the great efforts made. For these reasons, we analyzed the possible role of non-pharmacological substances such as supplements, probiotics, and nutraceuticals in reducing the risk of Sars-CoV-2 infection or mitigating the symptoms of COVID-19. These substances could have numerous advantages in the current circumstances, are generally easily available, and have negligible side effects if administered at the already used and tested dosages. Large scientific evidence supports the benefits that some bacterial and molecular products may exert on the immune response to respiratory viruses. These could also have a regulatory role in systemic inflammation or endothelial damage, which are two crucial aspects of COVID-19. However, there are no specific data available, and rigorous clinical trials should be conducted to confirm the putative benefits of diet supplementation, probiotics, and nutraceuticals in the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Infusino
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Massimiliano Marazzato
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.M.); (G.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Massimo Mancone
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Francesco Fedele
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Claudio Maria Mastroianni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.M.); (G.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Paolo Severino
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Giancarlo Ceccarelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.M.); (G.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Letizia Santinelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.M.); (G.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Elena Cavarretta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonino G. M. Marullo
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
| | - Fabio Miraldi
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Roberto Carnevale
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Nocella
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (M.M.); (F.F.); (P.S.); (F.M.); (C.N.)
| | - Giuseppe Biondi-Zoccai
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Cristiano Pagnini
- Department of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Azienda Ospedaliera San Giovanni Addolorata, 00184 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sonia Schiavon
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
| | - Francesco Pugliese
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialities “Paride Stefanini”, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Frati
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (E.C.); (A.G.M.M.); (R.C.); (G.B.-Z.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- IRCCS NeuroMed, 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Gabriella d’Ettorre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.M.); (G.C.); (L.S.)
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Cheng RZ. Can early and high intravenous dose of vitamin C prevent and treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)? MEDICINE IN DRUG DISCOVERY 2020; 5:100028. [PMID: 32328576 PMCID: PMC7167497 DOI: 10.1016/j.medidd.2020.100028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
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