Does Vitamin C Resist Covid-19?
We are all familiar with Coronavirus or Covid-19 as it’s scientifically. This recently discovered virus has attacked millions of people in the world. Thousands have died, leaving the world and scientists worried and confused. People who have recovered from this deadly virus seem to be susceptible to other diseases and a poor immune system. How can you stay safe? The first step is to boost your immunity. Prevention is better than cure and that’s true for Covid-19 too. There are no available cures in the market for Covid-19 and recovery periods from this virus also vary.
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is one of the most potent vitamins for our health. Humans can not synthesize Vitamin C, hence we need to get it from external sources. There have been some reports that it can resist Covid-19. There has not been enough material or research dedicated to this fact. Covid-19 is a new and evolving form of the virus. Scientists and researchers are still studying it and its effect on our bodies. The virus can affect your body, your lungs, and damage your immune system irreparably. Scientists have urged that people take care of their nutrition and health. There are a lot of ads or false rumors about things that can resist Covid-19. As far as we know, there is no prevention other than staying home, washing your hands, and avoiding contact with other people or places. But what about when you want to go out? The best thing to do is to wear a mask and keep at least 6 feet distance between you and other people. Avoid touching random surfaces, carry tissues or hand sanitizer with you, and do not go near any stranger or touch them.
Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties. It can protect the body’s cells from damage and repair your immune function. It performs several roles but one of the most important ones is supporting your immune system. During any infection, your body’s Vitamin C levels reduce and a person needs higher than usual dose of Vit C for functioning. In severe cases, doctors recommend intravenous administration of Vitamin C.
When the immune system activates to kill pathogens, it can cause oxidative damage. This damage is repaired by Vitamin C. It also helps in the development of white blood cells. Vitamin C can battle inflammation, thus reducing damage to the lungs. Vitamin C supplements are offered to people fighting the flu or viral infections. However, research has indicated that for treating CoVid-19 a higher dose is required. Thus patients are injected with Vitamin C instead of taking supplements. Again, there is no solid proof that Vitamin C works as a treatment for Covid-19.
What should you do? Vitamin C supplements are easily available over the counter. There are very little to no side effects of having those so you can take them regularly after consulting a doctor/medical expert. However, Vitamin C is secreted through urine. So excess consumption can cause kidney stones or possible organ damage. It is ideal to get your Vitamin C from natural foods. Vitamin C helps in keeping your immune system fit and healthy, it also benefits your skin, and prevents aging. It is found in several foods such as lemons, oranges, strawberries, broccoli, plums, papaya, and guavas. One large guava contains about 120 mg of Vitamin C. Adult males need about 100 mg daily while women need about 75-90 mg of Vitamin C. You can start your day with a warm glass of water and lemon squeezed in it. This helps you fight diseases and maintains your weight.
Wherever you are in the world, it is vital that you take precautions. Stay home if possible and avoid stepping out. The virus spreads with immediate contact so don’t touch your face at all if you are out. Carry gloves, mask, your water with you when you go out or to work. Wear a cloth or breathable mask that doesn’t irritate your skin. Sanitize all surfaces and screens as often as you can. Dispose of gloves and shoes the moment you enter your home. Go to the washroom and wash your hands as soon as you reach home. Wash your clothes in a disinfectant if you go out. Drink boiled or hot water throughout the day. Mix water, lemon, and turmeric and drink daily for an immunity boost. Add ginger or honey to your tea and drink it to fight possible infections or colds. Covid-19 can also be asymptomatic and can affect people within 14 days of contact. If you feel sick or sluggish or lose taste, get tested immediately. If you can’t get access to testing, then isolate yourself and drink hot water with Aspirin/Advil every four hours. Keep your family or friends informed so they can check on you. Be careful and keep your immunity strong, taking precautions is the only way to be safe and healthy.
