Some of the major coronavirus infection symptoms include flu and congestion. Most of the time, people use supplements containing zinc and Vitamin C to relieve these symptoms. However, a recent study shows that these popular supplements do not affect lowering the Covid-19 symptoms.
The study appeared recently in JAMA Network Open.
The researchers halted the study earlier because the supplements failed so badly. According to the findings, these supplements show no benefits towards the symptoms of coronavirus infection.
The research included a clinical trial to test the efficacy of Vitamin C supplements and zinc. Researchers provided high doses to the coronavirus patients over time but they showed no effects. Moreover, the high dosage caused side effects in the patients. Some patients reported stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea during the course.
Also read- Expert Suggestions To Fight a Silent Killer: Hypertension
Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C is a popular supplement when people contract flu or viral cold. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that support the immune response of the body. Also, researchers found that that this supplement can lower the symptoms of a cold significantly in adults and children. However, they do not show much effect after the Covid-19 symptoms start.
According to the study, zinc supplements can help strengthen the immune response of the body. Also, research shows that the deficiency of zinc in the body can cause an increase in the production of inflammatory cytokines. Besides, it also lowers the number of antibodies in the body.
Researchers suggest that the intake of zinc supplements within the first day of cold can shorten the duration of symptoms by only one day. Also, overdosing on zinc such as 40 milligrams every day can lead to loss of appetite, diarrhea, dry mouth, and nausea. Zinc also leaves a metallic taste in the mouth over excessive doses.
Over dosage of Vitamin C can also cause some side effects including heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headaches, and vomiting. The recommended dosage of this supplement is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. Exceeding 2000 mg of Vit C can lead to these side effects.
This recent research does not show any significant benefits of these supplements against the novel virus. Meanwhile, trials related to the efficacy of Vitamin D against Covid-9 symptoms are also going on. Vitamin D has several benefits including anti-inflammatory aspects and supporting the bone structure.
Also read- Everything You Need To Know About the New Coronavirus Variants
Researchers are also testing if the intravenous administration of Vitamin C can help patients with severe coronavirus infection. Also, additional studies about the prevention of Covid with the help of these supplements are going on as well.
Even though there is evidence about the benefits of Zinc and Vitamin C against viral olds, these supplements show no effect on Covid-19 symptoms. Also, researchers found out that these supplements do not shorten the period of coronavirus infection.
Researchers are consistently looking for ways to prevent the coronavirus infection or treatment to lower the symptoms. With the vaccine rolling out in most countries, scientists are hopeful that the spread of the virus will limit in the coming months.
