Tag: nutritional supplements

A Narrative Review on the Potential Role of Vitamin D3 in the Prevention, Protection, and Disease Mitigation of Acute and Long COVID-19

Abstract:

Purpose of Review: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has challenged global health systems and economies from January 2020. COVID-19 caused by the infectious severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has acute respiratory and cardiometabolic symptoms that can be severe and lethal. Long-term physiological and psychological symptoms, known as long COVID-19, persist affecting multiple organ systems. While vaccinations support the fight against SARS-CoV-2, other effective mechanisms of population protection should exist given the presence of yet unvaccinated and at-risk vulnerable groups, global disease comorbidities, and short-lived vaccine responses. The review proposes vitamin D3 as a plausible molecule for prevention, protection, and disease mitigation of acute and long COVID-19.

Recent Findings: Epidemiological studies have shown that individuals who were deficient in vitamin D3 had worse COVID-19 health outcomes and mortality rates. Higher doses of vitamin D3 supplementation may improve health and survivorship in individuals of various age groups, comorbidities, and severity of disease symptoms.

Summary: Vitamin D3’s biological effects can provide protection and repair in multiple organ systems affected by SARS-CoV-2. Vitamin D3 supplementation can potentially support disease-mitigation in acute and long COVID-19.

Source: Moukayed, M. A Narrative Review on the Potential Role of Vitamin D3 in the Prevention, Protection, and Disease Mitigation of Acute and Long COVID-19. Curr Nutr Rep (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-023-00471-2 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13668-023-00471-2 (Full text)

Can we Reduce the Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Regulating Micronutrients? A Review

Abstract:

Introduction: Deficiencies of some micronutrients have been observed in chronic fatigue syndrome patients, but the underlying cause has not been fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between CFS and micronutrients.

Methods: Related articles searched the combinations of the following terms which were used for the search in the Web of Science database: “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome” OR “Chronic Fatigue- Fibromyalgia Syndrome” OR “Postviral Fatigue Syndrome” AND “vitamins” OR “minerals” OR “micronutrients”. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were included.

Results: The initial search resulted in 225 studies, with 11 studies fully meeting the inclusion criteria. In these studies, it has been shown that micronutrients may play a role in the etiology of CFS, and that supplemented micronutrients can positively affect the symptoms of CFS.

Conclusion: Although there seems to be a close relationship between CFS-related syndromes and nutritional status, the literature on this subject remains limited. The results of the studies were not compatible with each other due to differences in the studies. Therefore, new studies are needed to fully explain the relationship between CFS and micronutrients.

Source: Akduman, GUl; Kurtbeyoglu, Emine; Gunes, Fatma E. Can we Reduce the Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Regulating Micronutrients? A Review. Current Nutrition & Food Science, Volume 19, Number 5, 2023, pp. 509-518(10). https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/cnf/2023/00000019/00000005/art00005

Low vitamin D levels are associated with Long COVID syndrome in COVID-19 survivors

Abstract:

Purpose: Long-COVID is an emerging syndrome affecting 50-70% of COVID-19 survivors which still lacks predicting factors. Due to the extra-skeletal effects of vitamin D, we retrospectively assessed in COVID-19 survivors 6-months after hospitalization the association between 25(OH)vitamin D levels and Long-COVID.

Methods: Long-COVID was defined according to NICE-guidelines. Fifty Long-COVID and 50 non-Long-COVID subjects matched on a 1:1-basis were enrolled from an outpatient-post-COVID clinic-cohort seen from August to November 2020. Therapies/comorbidities affecting calcium/vitamin-D/bone metabolism, and/or admission in ICU during hospitalization were exclusion criteria. 25(OH)vitamin D was measured at hospital-admission and 6-months after discharge.

Results: We observed lower 25(OH)vitamin D levels, evaluated at follow-up, in subjects with Long-COVID than those without (20.1vs23.2 ng/mL-p = 0.03). Regarding the affected health-areas evaluated in the entire cohort, we observed lower 25(OH)vitamin D levels in those with neurocognitive symptoms at follow-up (n.7) as compared to those without (n.93) (14.6vs20.6 ng/mL-p = 0.042). In patients presenting vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) both at admission and at follow-up (n.42), those affected by Long-COVID (n.22) presented lower 25(OH)vitamin D levels, at follow-up, compared to those not affected (n.20) (12.7vs15.2 ng/mL-p = 0.041). In multiple-regression analyses, lower 25(OH)vitamin D levels, at follow-up, resulted as the only variable significantly associated with Long-COVID in our cohort (p = 0.008, OR 1.09-CI 1.01-1.16).

Conclusions: COVID-19 survivors with Long-COVID have lower 25(OH)vitamin D levels as compared to matched-patients without Long-COVID. Our data suggest that vitamin D levels should be evaluated in COVID-19 patients after hospital-discharge. Role of vitamin D supplementation as preventive strategy of COVID-19 sequelae should be tested in randomized-controlled trials.

Source: di Filippo L, Frara S, Nannipieri F, Cotellessa A, Locatelli M, Rovere Querini P, Giustina A. Low vitamin D levels are associated with Long COVID syndrome in COVID-19 survivors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023 Apr 13:dgad207. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgad207. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37051747. https://academic.oup.com/jcem/advance-article/doi/10.1210/clinem/dgad207/7116659 (Full text available as PDF file)

Synbiotic Supplementation Improves Quality of Life and Inmunoneuroendocrine Response in Patients with Fibromyalgia: Influence of Codiagnosis with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Abstract:

Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are two medical conditions in which pain, fatigue, immune/inflammatory dysregulation, as well as various mental health disorders predominate in the diagnosis, without evidence of a clear consensus on the treatment of FM and CFS.
The main aim of this research was to analyse the possible effects of a synbiotic (Synbiotic, Gasteel Plus® (Heel España S.A.U.), through the study of pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-8/IL-10) and neuroendocrine biomarkers (cortisol and DHEA), in order to evaluate the interaction between inflammatory and stress responses mediated by the cytokine-HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, as well as mental and physical health using body composition analysis, accelerometry and previously validated questionnaires.
The participants were women diagnosed with FM with or without a diagnostic of CFS. Each participant was evaluated at baseline and after the intervention, which lasted one month. Synbiotic intervention decreased levels of perceived stress, anxiety and depression, as well as improved quality of life during daily activities. In addition, the synbiotic generated an activation of HPA axis (physiological cortisol release) that can compensate the increased inflammatory status (elevated IL-8) observed at baseline in FM patients. There were no detrimental changes in body composition or sleep parameters, as well as in the most of the activity/sedentarism-related parameters studied by accelerometry.
It is concluded that synbiotic nutritional supplements can improve the dysregulated immunoneuroendocrine interaction involving inflammatory and stress responses in women diagnosed with FM, particularly in those without a previous CFS diagnostic; as well as their perceived of levels stress, anxiety, depression and quality of life.
Source: Hinchado MD, Quero-Calero CD, Otero E, Gálvez I, Ortega E. Synbiotic Supplementation Improves Quality of Life and Inmunoneuroendocrine Response in Patients with Fibromyalgia: Influence of Codiagnosis with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Nutrients. 2023; 15(7):1591. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15071591 https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/7/1591 (Full text)

An Orthomolecular Protocol for Long COVID

Abstract:

A significant number of COVID-19 patients suffer from SARS-CoV-2 post-acute chronic sequelae, also known as post-COVID syndrome or long COVID. These patients report a broad range of persistent and debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, pain, breathlessness, and dysrhythmias. These chronic symptoms are believed to be a consequence of excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation, tissue damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Patients at higher risk of long-term sequelae are those who experienced severe COVID-19 infection, are immunocompromised and likely have depleted reserves of biological factors and micronutrients necessary for prompt recovery.

Based on biochemical principles and studies in conditions that share common traits with long COVID patients such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, symptom relief and sustained recovery can be expected by administering an orthomolecular protocol consisting of a combination of precursors, cofactors, and biological response modifiers.

Source: Gonzalez MJ et al. (2023) An Orthomolecular Protocol for Long-COVID. J Orthomol Med. 38(1) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369328211_An_Orthomolecular_Protocol_for_Long_COVID (Full text)

A Review of Possible Supplements to Relieve the Symptoms of Fatigue after COVID-19

Abstract:

Background: The highly infectious coronavirus has become a global pandemic; the effective medication is yet to be developed. The health care system was strained; millions of people have been suffered from infection and complications. Post COVID-19 fatigue is a dominant characteristic of coronavirus infection. It affects general state of health, muscle strength, sleeping quality, mental health, and life quality. This paper is emphasizing and summarizing the potential beneficial supplementations of post COVID-19 fatigue symptoms.

Methods: The knowledge gained from PubMed and from the National Library of Medicine. Clinical studies and systematic review articles were collected in this topic.

Results: Herein, we discuss the possible therapeutic supplementations with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antioxidant effect. Vitamin complexes, trace elements, antioxidants, coenzymes, probiotics, essential fatty acids; one and creatine as amino acid derivatives have been appeared to be effective in relieving post COVID-19 fatigue symptoms.

Conclusions: Based on the data, these nutrients and supplements might be important to alleviate the post COVID-19 fatigue symptoms and they could be considered as a supportive therapy

Source: Boglárka Bernadett Tisza, Gyöngyi Iván, Viola Keczeli, Melinda Kóró, Patricia Szántóri, Zsófia Gyócsiné Varga, Henriett Müller, Olivia Pribéli, Zoltán Szabó, Zsófia Verzár, Monika Sélleyné Gyuró, Andrea Gubicskóné Kisbendek and Tímea Stromájer-Rácz. A Review of Possible Supplements to Relieve the Symptoms of Fatigue after COVID-19.  J Med Public Health. 2023;4(2):JMPH-04-1062. https://www.medtextpublications.com/open-access/a-review-of-possible-supplements-to-relieve-the-symptoms-of-1309.pdf (Full text)

Long Covid and Neurodegenerative Disease

Abstract:

Brain fog with compromised ability to concentrate has been the most frequent Long Covid (LC) complaint. This is due to an increased TGF beta/IFN gamma with consequently increased bradykinin (BKN), especially in Caucasian females. Brain and lung blood vessels “leak.” This same ratio is increased in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but decreased in Parkinson’s disease (PD), because CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are differentially affected by the invading associated viruses, e.g., SARS CoV2, HIV, ….

In Covid-19 CD147 receptors on immune cells are critical in generating the increased TGF beta/IFN gamma and those on endothelial cells, platelets, and erythrocytes are critical to the abnormal microvascular blood flow. ACE2 receptors on pneumocytes and enterocytes enable pulmonary and GI entry, initiating gut dysbiosis.

Epigenetics, methylation, magnesium, vitamin D, the B vitamins, and antioxidants suggest that these issues can be surmounted. Biochemical, physiologic, and epidemiologic data are analyzed to answer these questions. An LC model is presented and discussed in the context of the most recent research. Suggestions to avoid these and other worrisome concerns are included. Other topics discussed include estrogen, the gut microbiome, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and homocysteine.

Source: Chambers, P. Long Covid and Neurodegenerative Disease. Preprints 2023, 2023020027 (doi: 10.20944/preprints202302.0027.v1) https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202302.0027/v1 (Full text available as PDF file)

 

Long COVID in the Older Adult and Vitamin D

Abstract:

Background: The coronavirus COVID-19 strain that emerged in December 2019 continues to produce a widespread and seemingly intractable negative impact on health and longevity and life quality in all parts of the world, especially, among older adults with chronic health conditions.

Objectives: The first aim of this updated review article was to examine, summarize, synthesize, and report on the research base concerning the possible use of vitamin D in the realm of the recently emergent syndrome termed long or post-acute COVID-19 disease. A second was to establish any health associated preventive and intervention recommendations for the older adult with long COVID-19 manifestations, who may yet be susceptible to future COVID-19 variant infections and others.

Methods: To examine the association between vitamin D and long COVID-19 illness manifestations, articles responding to several key words entered into leading data bases were examined: These included the terms: Vitamin D, Long/Post-Acute COVID-19 and/or COVID-19. Databases employed were PUBMED, PubMed Central and Google Scholar. All relevant articles were carefully examined and those meeting the review criteria were carefully read, and described in narrative form.

Results: Data reveal some possible benefits may accrue in the context of COVID-19 illness prevention and rehabilitation by efforts to ensure optimal vitamin D serum levels among high risk, vitamin D deficient, and chronically challenged post-acute COVID-19 older adults.

Conclusion: More rigorous and carefully construed research efforts to examine vitamin D implications and its moderating or mediating role in averting or mitigating long COVID-19 health complications are strongly warranted.

Source: Ray Marks (2023) Long COVID in the Older Adult and Vitamin D. J Gerontol Geriatr Med 9: 155. https://www.heraldopenaccess.us/openaccess/long-covid-in-the-older-adult-and-vitamin-d (Full text)

The Role of Immunity and Inflammation in ME/ CFS and Post-COVID Syndrome: Implications for Treatment

Abstract:

Probably one in seven patients who have experienced acute COVID-19 continue having long-lasting complaints, called post-COVID syndrome or long-COVID, that are similar to those observed in patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).

There are good reasons to believe that common immunological, epigenetic and inflammatory mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis both diseases.

To date, various therapeutic approaches have been recommended, but with moderate success. In the present opinion paper, the author weights his clinical experience against data from the literature, and suggests novel approaches.

In addition to general measures and paramedical approaches, food supplementation with a specific nutraceutical can be completed by oral administration of sodium dichloroacetate and Meldonium to optimize glucose metabolism and mitochondrial energy generation.

Alternatively, intravenous infusions with magnesium salt and multivitamins can be completed with glutathione, m-tranexamic acid, and cultured stem cells.

Preliminary results of an open-label, prospective, two-centre trial suggest more than four in five patients benefit from combined oral and infusion therapy with significantly diminished fatigue and improved well-being.

Monoclonal antibodies in “biologicals”, blocking the effects of cytokines, and “small molecules” with Janus kinase inhibiting activity may offer novel opportunities by focusing on both immunologic and inflammation targets. A pilot trial with, in particular, one of the Janus kinase inhibitors could be considered.

Source: Comhaire F. The Role of Immunity and Inflammation in ME/CFS and Post-COVID Syndrome: Implications for Treatment. MedLife Clinics 2022, Volume 4 (2), Article 1043 http://www.medtextpublications.com/open-access/the-role-of-immunity-and-inflammation-in-me-cfs-and-1254.pdf (Full text)

Effects of l-Arginine Plus Vitamin C Supplementation on Physical Performance, Endothelial Function, and Persistent Fatigue in Adults with Long COVID: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract:

Long COVID, a condition characterized by symptom and/or sign persistence following an acute COVID-19 episode, is associated with reduced physical performance and endothelial dysfunction. Supplementation of l-arginine may improve endothelial and muscle function by stimulating nitric oxide synthesis.

A single-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in adults aged between 20 and 60 years with persistent fatigue attending a post-acute COVID-19 outpatient clinic. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive twice-daily orally either a combination of 1.66 g l-arginine plus 500 mg liposomal vitamin C or a placebo for 28 days. The primary outcome was the distance walked on the 6 min walk test. Secondary outcomes were handgrip strength, flow-mediated dilation, and fatigue persistence.

Fifty participants were randomized to receive either l-arginine plus vitamin C or a placebo. Forty-six participants (median (interquartile range) age 51 (14), 30 [65%] women), 23 per group, received the intervention to which they were allocated and completed the study. At 28 days, l-arginine plus vitamin C increased the 6 min walk distance (+30 (40.5) m; placebo: +0 (75) m, p = 0.001) and induced a greater improvement in handgrip strength (+3.4 (7.5) kg) compared with the placebo (+1 (6.6) kg, p = 0.03).

The flow-mediated dilation was greater in the active group than in the placebo (14.3% (7.3) vs. 9.4% (5.8), p = 0.03). At 28 days, fatigue was reported by two participants in the active group (8.7%) and 21 in the placebo group (80.1%; p &lt; 0.0001). l-arginine plus vitamin C supplementation improved walking performance, muscle strength, endothelial function, and fatigue in adults with long COVID. This supplement may, therefore, be considered to restore physical performance and relieve persistent symptoms in this patient population.

Source: Tosato M, Calvani R, Picca A, Ciciarello F, Galluzzo V, Coelho-Júnior HJ, Di Giorgio A, Di Mario C, Gervasoni J, Gremese E, Leone PM, Nesci A, Paglionico AM, Santoliquido A, Santoro L, Santucci L, Tolusso B, Urbani A, Marini F, Marzetti E, Landi F; Gemelli against COVID-19 Post-Acute Care Team. Effects of l-Arginine Plus Vitamin C Supplementation on Physical Performance, Endothelial Function, and Persistent Fatigue in Adults with Long COVID: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2022 Nov 23;14(23):4984. doi: 10.3390/nu14234984. PMID: 36501014; PMCID: PMC9738241. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9738241/ (Full text)