In the middle of the great wave respiratory virusesno wonder we all want to find the perfect way prevent COVID-19. Obviously, the best way to do this is vaccination. In Spain, the percentage of people over 65 vaccinated has fallen sharply compared to last year, and this is clearly visible in income. But beyond this crucial weapon against the virus, there are other additional tools that can give our the immune system. One such remedy, according to new research, is vegetarian diet or at least with a lot of vegetables and as little meat as possible.
The study was carried out by a group of scientists from University of Sao Paulo. It has some limitations which we will see later. However, it reinforces what we could already sense. A good diet is essential to preventing Covid-19, just like any other disease. infection. Our immune system benefits from a diet rich in vegetables, legumes and nuts and low meat, and this is a good example of this.
It is enough to be a flexitarian to resist the virus. Although vegetarians and vegans have even better weapons for this.
Vegetarian diet for the prevention of COVID-19
This is an observational study that is primarily based on surveys. They took part in this 702 peoplehired between March and July 2022.
They were all asked a series of questions about their diet as well as other habits, with a particular focus on exercise. It also took into account whether they had contracted COVID-19 and, if so, how severe their symptoms were.
After asking participants about their diet, they were divided into two groups. On the one side, omnivores and, on the other hand, those who ate mostly vegetables. Within this group, in addition, two subgroups were created: one for flexitarianswho ate less than three servings of meat per week, and one more within vegetarians and vegans.
What is striking is that omnivores tended to report more previous conditions and sedentary lifestyle, both factors can increase the likelihood of contracting this and other respiratory viruses. However, to test whether diet could prevent COVID-19, these data were separated from the rest and only people with similar characteristics were compared.
The conclusion was that omnivores are more likely to become infected with COVID-19 and also experience severe symptoms. In particular, it has been estimated that people who eat a primarily vegetarian diet 39% less likely to become infected.
What’s all this for?
The potential of a vegetarian diet to prevent Covid-19 is not entirely clear, although it is likely due to the ability of many plant substances to strengthen the immune system. The authors of the study say this.
“Plant-based diets are rich in antioxidants, phytosterols and polyphenols, which have positive effects on several cell types involved in immune function and exhibit direct antiviral properties.”
In particular, it should be noted that many fruits and vegetables contain high doses Vitamin C; which, together with D, is essential for strengthen the immune system.
Limitations of the study
Study observantThus, even knowing the ability of these substances to strengthen the immune system, a cause-and-effect relationship cannot be proven beyond chance. On the other hand, the results self-esteem by the volunteers themselves, in some cases from memory of the past time. This requires them to remember certain data and in certain cases they may provide false information without malicious intent.
Therefore, it would be interesting to repeat the study without these limitations. Despite this, it is clear that a vegetarian diet offers us many benefits and preventing Covid-19 is likely one of them. Perhaps now is the time to start changing the way you eat.
Source: Hiper Textual
