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Italian Journal of Pediatrics

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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Probiotics | Debate

Could nutritional supplements act as therapeutic adjuvants in COVID-19?

Authors: Giorgio Costagliola, Erika Spada, Pasquale Comberiati, Diego G. Peroni

Published in: Italian Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

The role of the immune system and inflammatory response in the pathogenesis of the severe manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is well known. Currently, different therapies active on the immune system are used for the management of COVID-19. The involvement of the immune system also opens the opportunity for the use of nutritional supplements with antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity.

Main aspects

Nutritional supplements with antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity are promising therapeutic adjuvants for the treatment of COVID-19, and also for the prevention of viral spreading. In particular, the role of vitamin D, probiotics, lactoferrin, and zinc is of significant clinical interest, although there are only a few data on their use in COVID-19 patients. Their molecular actions, together with the results of studies performed on other respiratory infections, strongly suggest their potential utility in COVID-19. This article discusses the main properties of these nutritional supplements and their potential applicability in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

Conclusion

The supplementation with vitamin D, probiotics, lactoferrin and zinc could have a role both in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection and in mitigating the clinical course in infected patients, contributing in the prevention of immune-mediated organ damage.

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Title: Could nutritional supplements act as therapeutic adjuvants in COVID-19?
Authors: Giorgio Costagliola
Erika Spada
Pasquale Comberiati
Diego G. Peroni
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Probiotics
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
Cytokines
Published in: Italian Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1824-7288
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13052-021-00990-0

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Could nutritional supplements act as therapeutic adjuvants in COVID-19?

Abstract

Background

Main aspects

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Main aspects

Conclusion

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