The Impact of Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc on Immune Function Against Viral Infections, Particularly Those Caused by the Novel Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to threaten patients, societies, and healthcare systems around the world. As the virus that causes the disease has spread rapidly, treatment options that are simultaneously cost-effective, readily available, and safe are desperately needed. It has been documented that vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc play a role in the immune system’s growth, development, and integrity. Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant, plays a role in immune function and modulation. Studies conducted on patients with viral infections have shown that vitamin C can reduce symptom severity and mortality rates. Some studies have shown evidence of vitamin D and zinc deficiencies in COVID-19 patients who also have acute respiratory tract infections. Vitamin D has been linked to lower symptom severity and shortened duration of viral infections, as well as decreased production of inflammatory cytokines. Though further research needs to be done to investigate the mechanism of zinc in immune function, recent studies in COVID-19 patients have shown that zinc supplementation also decreases symptom severity and duration. Here, the roles of these nutrients in the immune system are discussed in relation to viral infections, including those caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Viral infections
• Immune system
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Zinc