By Madhurima Ghosh –
Global pandemic has prompted urgent search for effective inventions and researches have shown that zinc deficiency is one of the causes that promotes risk of Covid infection. Amongst the COVID-19 patients, majority were found to be zinc deficient. These patients developed higher rates of complications, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pursued prolonged hospital stay and increased mortality. Association of zinc deficiency with severe Covid outcomes in patients has probably labeled zinc as 2nd most important nutrient that can fight corona virus.
Zinc is a micro nutrient that occurs as trace element which means it requires in very tiny amount in our body. Yet it is an essential nutrient that is responsible for catalytic activity of 100 enzymes, these enzymes in turn helps in immune system functioning, wound healing, protein synthesis, cell growth and differentiation along with intestinal transfer of electrolytes and water. That is zinc is important to regulate the immune status of the body and also possess antiviral properties. Zinc cannot be stored or produced in human body and even the excess gets excreted. Thus it should be supplemented through proper diet but should be consumed in moderation. The daily intake can range from 10 to 15mg of zinc. The best sources from which zinc can be consumed in raw form are oyster, red meat, beans poultry, whole grains, nuts, fortified cereals etc.
It is observed that Covid is common for people with low immunity and antioxidant properties of Zinc affect multiple aspects of immune system. Zinc has become an indispensable component in standard Covid treatment plan. Thus maintaining proper zinc levels in the body is important to stay protected from Covid infection. Body can indicate Zinc deficiency through symptoms like –
- unexplained weight loss,
- wounds that won’t heal,
- lack of alertness,
- decreased sense of smell and taste,
- diarrhea,
- loss of appetite,
- open sores on the skin etc.
If any of these symptoms are exhibited proper care should be taken to balance the Zinc levels in the body by consuming it in raw form or in the form of supplements. This would enhance the immunity system of the body and in turn decrease susceptibility to Corona Virus infection.