Natural supplements and Covid-19
Natural supplements and Covid-19, what is right for you? We are being inundated with new information about the COVID-19 virus every day. I have been reviewing the literature and the studies being done on the patients who survived COVID-19 in Hong Kong and China. Although these studies are based on a limited amount of data, there is one bit of information that I need to pass on to our patients.
Let me preface this by saying I am not making any general recommendations about the natural supplements you are taking. Typically, natural supplements have a wide variety of uses and side effects. You will need to do your own research on these individual products, and if you have specific medical conditions, consult with your physician about each supplement.
Many of you regularly take supplements to boost your immune system. Normally, supplements like Olive Leaf Extract, Echinacea, or Elderberry help our bodies ward off viruses or colds. But in the case of this new virus, some experts believe some of these immune boosters could have a negative effect.
In its advanced stages, COVID-19 sometimes causes a “cytokine storm.” In layman’s terms, this means the body’s immune system has an extreme elevated response that actually damages tissue in the lungs. If you are taking a supplement to boost your immune system, it is possible the additional boost in immune reaction could further complicate the body’s natural reaction.
This does not mean that supplements are necessarily harmful or that you should worry if you are currently taking them. Most supplements will not remain in your system for more than a few days. They are still effective in fighting the flu or warding off colds. But if you test positive for Covid-19, you should consider whether the combination of natural supplements and covid-19 is right for you.
Many Chinese and American doctors are recommending Vitamin C and multi-vitamins for COVID-19. You should act only in accordance with the recommendations of your physician given your individual health circumstances.
The best thing you can do during this time is to:
1. Reduce stress through meditation, yoga, or light exercise;
2. Manage your diet by eating more protein and vegetables, limiting your carb intake; and
3. Washing your hands regularly and avoid contact with other individuals.
If you have questions, or if you would like to discuss your personal health, please call us at (919) 891-9991.
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