SARS-CoV-2: Micronutrient Optimization in Supporting Host Immunocompetence
Melanie Stipp
Abstract
The novel 2019 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has become an international pandemic.The lack of targeted treatment for SARS-CoV-2 has necessitated the need to evaluate all potential modalities to enhance host immune response.This article reviews the role essential micronutrients play in the risk reduction and treatment of COVID-19.While literature supporting the risk and severity reduction of COVID-19 infections through exogenous supplementation is limited, micronutrient optimization is essential in maintaining host immunocompetence, and deficits may critically impair host defense.The immune supportive mechanisms and physiologic effects of various micronutrients are multifaceted, including the reduction of viral replication, inhibition of polymerase function, augmentation of innate and acquired immune responses, enhancement of anti-inflammatory immune responses, and the reduction of pro-inflammatory responses.