Effective food hygiene principles and dietary intakes to reinforce the immune system for prevention of COVID-19: a systematic review

Abstract

Background This study aimed at reviewing effective food hygiene principles and dietary intakes to reinforce the immune system for prevention of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods The systematic literature search was performed in three databases from Jan. 2020 up to 10th July 2020. English articles that focused on nutrition, food, immunity and corona virus were searched. Systematic and narrative reviews were included. Results After evaluation of search papers, 27 relevant articles were used in this review. The importance of nutrients, phytochemicals, probiotics and some spices were highlighted for enhancing immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. A healthy dietary pattern with proper energy intake provides sufficient nutrients. The unhealthy dietary pattern is linked with inflammation and risk factors related to high mortality in patients with severe COVID-19 infection. Different thermal procedures have been used for the inactivation of viruses. It is recommended not to consume raw or undercooked animal products. Conclusions It is critical to ensure that the nutritional needs of the population are met and sustained based on standards during a COVID-19 pandemic. Clear advice on adequate calorie intake and an optimal healthy diet to support the immune function should be provided. Good hygiene practices must be performed by everyone and done in the food industry.

Parental Perspectives of the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Food-Related Behaviors: Systematic Review

“…Specifically, the aim is to synthesize the available evidence on parental perspectives of the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the family food environment and food-related activities, capturing both favorable and unfavorable changes in food preparation and meal routines, as well as other relevant behaviors revolving around food, such as food shopping, meal planning, and eating habits. Other reviews in the food domain have mainly been concerned with eating behavior changes in the general population [ 15 , 16 ], including low- and middle-income countries [ 17 ], adherence to the Mediterranean diet [ 18 ], obesity risk factors [ 19 ], the relationship between dietary intakes and immunity [ 20 ], effects on diet and physical activity in older adults [ 21 ], and parental perceptions of the food environment and their influence on food decisions among low-income families [ 22 ]. According to author’s best knowledge, this is the first systematic review that aims to comprehensively study the evidence relating to general parental food perspectives during the pandemic, including low-income parents.…”

Physical Activity, Dietary Behavior, and Body Weight Changes during the COVID-19 Nationwide Level 3 Alert in Taiwan: Results of a Taiwanese Online Survey

“…In addition, Taiwanese people tend to believe that one should eat healthier before and after receiving COVID vaccines. A healthy diet prevents hyper-inflammation and might help to protect against inflammation from virus infections [38]. The concept of a health regimen based on traditional Chinese medicine is deeply rooted in the minds of the Taiwanese people, which could be a possible explanation for why they consumed fewer snacks during the COVID pandemic.…”

Achieving health through diet: a joint event of the Sabri Ülker Foundation and The Nutrition Society of UK and Ireland, May 2022

“…Research is ongoing into specific nutrients and COVID-19. Immune-boosting properties of vitamins C, D, E, zinc, selenium and omega-3 https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114523000260 Published online by Cambridge University Press Accepted manuscript fatty acids (17) and healthy diet patterns such as the Mediterranean diet (18) could provide possible benefits to patients with COVID-19, particularly in elderly people, but results are inconsistent. A review of the evidence by the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) supports following a balanced diet and complying with dietary recommendations to achieve optimal immune function, but not the intake of any specific nutrients, including vitamin D, above current recommendations (19) .…”