Vitamin D gained significant attention during the pandemic. Among the vitamins studied in relation to COVID-19, this one stands out. Research indicates potential connections between vitamin D levels and COVID outcomes.
A 2023 systematic review in Nutrients analyzed 13 randomized controlled trials, suggesting that higher doses of vitamin D might help decrease hospital stay duration for COVID-19 and lower ICU admission rates. However, according to Ali Bandier, MS, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian in New York, no significant statistical difference was observed concerning overall mortality.
Bandier notes that results on vitamin D supplementation’s effect on COVID-19 patients are varied. A 2023 review from multiple studies published in Frontiers in Nutrition concluded that it does not significantly impact ICU admissions, mechanical ventilation, intubation, or mortality. In contrast, another 2023 study published in Epidemiology and Health suggested that insufficient vitamin D levels could correlate with more severe illness, prompting the recommendation for maintaining optimal levels as a preventive approach.
The NIH indicates that there isn’t sufficient evidence to endorse the use of vitamin D for managing COVID-19. It’s also important to consider that vitamin D overdose is possible, thus consulting with a licensed healthcare provider is essential.
Zinc
Research suggests that the mineral zinc may help in protecting against COVID-19.
A small-scale 2023 study indicated that zinc supplementation could reduce death rates, minimize hospital admissions, and shorten the duration of symptoms. Other 2023 research showed decreased mortality but no notable change in symptoms.
The NIH panel asserts that there is insufficient evidence to recommend taking zinc specifically for COVID-19 or advising against it. They caution against exceeding the recommended intake of zinc, which should be limited to 11 milligrams (mg) daily for men and eight milligrams for non-pregnant women.
Melatonin
Extensive research has been conducted on melatonin as a treatment for COVID-19. A 2022 study in Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences found that melatonin can help mitigate the effects of the cytokine storm, a severe immune response triggered by COVID-19. The findings indicate that melatonin may enhance cell survival and reduce lung damage.
