Knowledge and awareness on natural dietary immunoboosters to combat Covid 19-A survey

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 609-617
Author(s):  
Aldrin Joshua A ◽  
Gayatri Devi R ◽  
Gifrina Jayaraj
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin C ◽  
The Body ◽  
Phagocytic Index ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Immunomodulatory Activity ◽  
Upper Respiratory Tract ◽  
Scale Population ◽  
Spss Software ◽  
Immune Booster ◽  
Tract Infections

A natural immune booster is an additional immunizing agent which helps to increase and sustain the immune response of the body. Circumin is an active compound in turmeric which is a natural antioxidant which is used as an immune booster, antimicrobial, antipathogen and as a detoxifying agent. Pepper contains piperine that has antioxidant potential which will decrease the level of lipid peroxidase and has immunomodulatory activity, it increases macrophage migration index and phagocytic index. The vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that reduces the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections. Along with natural immune boosters, healthy practices like yoga and meditation will regulate and maintain organ functions, thereby improving our immunity. The main aim of the study is to create an awareness on natural dietary immunoboosters to combat COVID 19. A self structured questionnaire comprising of about 15 questions was prepared and circulated through online based i.e. Google forms. The results were obtained and statistically analyzed through SPSS software. The survey was done on a small scale population comprising 110 participants in which 62 male (56.4%) and 48 female (43.6%) participated. About 95.5% of the population are aware that taking citrus fruits that have vitamin C will boost their immunity but only 4.5% of them are not aware. 80% of the population are aware that green tea is a powerful antioxidant which will help in building immunity but 9.1% were not aware and 10.9% was not sure of the fact. 82.7% of the population are well aware that spinach and other green vegetables have to be cooked as little as possible to retain nutrients present in them but only 10.9% of them were not sure and 6.4% of them were not aware.

scholarly journals Modern possibilities of herbal medicine in the treatment of acute inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract

2021 ◽  
pp. 127-133
Author(s):  
A. V. Gurov ◽  
A. V. Muzhichkova
Keyword(s):  
Phenolic Compounds ◽  
Respiratory Tract ◽  
Inflammatory Diseases ◽  
The Body ◽  
Upper Respiratory Tract ◽  
Plant Materials ◽  
Pelargonium Sidoides ◽  
Medicinal Substances ◽  
Upper Respiratory ◽  
Tract Infections

The article provides data on the effectiveness of the use of the drug in the treatment of acute, chronic and recurrent diseases of the respiratory tract and ENT organs. The drug is an extract of Pelargonium sidoides. From the standpoint of modern pharmacology, it is known that the use of natural products based on plant materials ensures safety and the absence of pronounced side effects. The main active ingredients of pelargonium are phenolic compounds: coumarins, flavonoids and phenolic acids. The article details the biochemical and pharmacological properties of each of the above groups of compounds. It has been shown that the presence of several classes of phenolic compounds simultaneously contributes to the potentiation of the pharmacological effects of each group separately. Therefore, drug has a pronounced polytropic effect: antiviral, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cytoprotective. The article presents the results of numerous domestic and foreign randomized, placebo-controlled studies demonstrating its high efficacy and safety in the treatment of ENT diseases, upper respiratory tract infections and bronchitis, not only in adults, but also in children over 1 year old. On the basis of the analyzed and presented material, the authors concluded that the use of a natural-based drug in the treatment of acute respiratory infection is effective and safe, both as monotherapy and in combination with other medicinal substances. He is able to quickly eliminate not only the symptoms of inflammation, but also to support the body with any ailments of this type.

Consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces severity and duration of selected upper respiratory tract infection symptoms and increases plasma vitamin C concentration in healthy older adults

2011 ◽  
Vol 108 (7) ◽  
pp. 1235-1245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Denise C. Hunter ◽  
Margot A. Skinner ◽  
Frances M. Wolber ◽  
Chris L. Booth ◽  
Jacelyn M. S. Loh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin C ◽  
Respiratory Tract ◽  
Immune Function ◽  
Washout Period ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Plasma Vitamin ◽  
Upper Respiratory Tract ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Upper Respiratory ◽  
Tract Infections

In the elderly, immunosenescence and malnourishment can contribute to increased risk and severity of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). Gold kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis ‘Hort16A’) contains nutrients important for immune function and mitigation of symptoms of infection, including vitamins C and E, folate, polyphenols and carotenoids. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether regular consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces symptoms of URTI in older people, and determine the effect it has on plasma antioxidants, and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and immune function. A total of thirty-two community-dwelling people ( ≥ 65 years) participated in a randomised crossover study, consuming the equivalent of four kiwifruit or two bananas daily for 4 weeks, with treatments separated by a 4-week washout period. Participants completed the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 daily, and blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of each treatment and washout period. Gold kiwifruit did not significantly reduce the overall incidence of URTI compared with banana, but significantly reduced the severity and duration of head congestion, and the duration of sore throat. Gold kiwifruit significantly increased plasma vitamin C, α-tocopherol and lutein/zeaxanthin concentrations, and erythrocyte folate concentrations, and significantly reduced plasma lipid peroxidation. No changes to innate immune function (natural killer cell activity, phagocytosis) or inflammation markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, homocysteine) were detected. Consumption of gold kiwifruit enhanced the concentrations of several dietary plasma analytes, which may contribute to reduced duration and severity of selected URTI symptoms, offering a novel tool for reducing the burden of URTI in older individuals.

scholarly journals Vitamin C-Induced Oxalate Nephropathy

2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jorge Lamarche ◽  
Reji Nair ◽  
Alfredo Peguero ◽  
Craig Courville
Keyword(s):  
Renal Failure ◽  
Vitamin C ◽  
Primary Hyperoxaluria ◽  
The Body ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Vitamin Deficiencies ◽  
Dietary Consumption ◽  
Other Substances ◽  
Immune Booster ◽  
Oxalate Nephropathy

Although a multitude of syndromes have been thoroughly described as a result of vitamin deficiencies, over consumption of such substances may also be quite dangerous. Intratubular crystallization of calcium oxalate as a result of hyperoxaluria can cause acute renal failure. This type of renal failure is known as oxalate nephropathy. Hyperoxaluria occurs as a result of inherited enzymatic deficiencies known as primary hyperoxaluria or from exogenous sources known as secondary hyperoxaluria. Extensive literature has reported and explained the mechanism of increased absorption of oxalate in malabsorptive syndromes leading to renal injury. However, other causes of secondary hyperoxaluria may also take place either via direct dietary consumption of oxalate rich products or via other substances which may metabolize into oxalate within the body. Vitamin C is metabolized to oxalate. Oral or parenteral administration of this vitamin has been used in multiple settings such as an alternative treatment of malignancy or as an immune booster. This article presents a clinical case in which ingestion of high amounts of vitamin C lead to oxalate nephropathy. This article further reviews other previously published cases in order to illustrate and highlight the potential renal harm this vitamin poses if consumed in excessive amounts.

Peran Beberapa Zat Gizi Mikro Untuk Meningkatkan Sistem Imunitas Tubuh Dalam Pencegahan COVID-19

2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 16-23
Author(s):  
Nur Amaliah ◽  
Fery
Keyword(s):  
Candida Albicans ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Vitamin E ◽  
Epithelial Cells ◽  
Vitamin A ◽  
Vitamin C ◽  
The Body ◽  
Ivig Treatment ◽  
Plasma Vitamin ◽  
Tract Infections

Abstract: The emergence of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, wich  causes severe respiratory tract infections in humans (COVID-19), has become a global health concerm. Most coronavirus infect animals but can evolve into strains that can also infect humans. Recently, we showed that intravenous immunoglobin (IVIg) treatment reduces inflammation of intestinal epithelial cells and eliminates evergrowth of the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Candida albicans in the murine gut in association with downregulation of proinflammatory mediators combined with upregulation of anti- inflammatory cytokines. Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals. One of the roles of vitamins and minerals is as an antioxidant that can strengthen the human immune system. The role of vitamin A is more in the maintenance of epithelial cells, which is one of the epithelial cells of the body tissues involved in the non-specific immune system. Vitamin E or α-tocopherol has an important role in erythrocyte membranes and plasma lipoproteins, they are able to maintain the integrity of the cell  membrane because vitamin E has a phenol ring capable of providing hydrogen ions to free radicals. Vitamin C as an electron donor that can break the chain reaction of Reactive Oxygen Species and Reactive Nitrogen Species. Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for protein synthesis and enzyme activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH - PX). Selenium has a role as a catalyst in the breakdown of peroxide produced by the body to become a bond that is not toxic. Therefore, the adequacy of nutrients, especially vitamins and minerals, are necessary in maintaining optimal immune system as a preventive health efforts.   Abstrak: Munculnya coronavirus baru di Wuhan, Cina, yang menyebabkan infeksi saluran pernapasan parah pada manusia (COVID-19), telah menjadi masalah kesehatan global. Sebagian besar virus corona menginfeksi hewan tetapi dapat berevolusi menjadi strain yang juga dapat menginfeksi manusia. Baru-baru ini, kami menunjukkan bahwa pengobatan imunoglobulin intravena (IVIg) mengurangi peradangan sel epitel usus dan menghilangkan pertumbuhan berlebih dari patogen jamur manusia oportunistik Candida albicans di usus murine dalam hubungannya dengan downregulasi mediator proinflamasi yang dikombinasikan dengan upregulasi sitokin anti-inflamasi. Zat gizi mikro adalah vitamin dan mineral. Salah satu peran vitamin dan mineral adalah sebagai antioksidan yang mampu memperkuat sistem daya tahan tubuh manusia (sistem imun). Peran vitamin A banyak pada pemeliharaan sel epitel, dimana sel epitel merupakan salah satu jaringan tubuh yang terlibat di dalam fungsi imunitas non-spesifik. Vitamin E atau α-tokoferol mempunyai peran penting di membran eritrosit dan lipoprotein plasma, vitamin ini mampu mempertahankan integritas membran sel karena vitamin E mempunyai cincin fenol yang mampu memberikan ion hidrogennya kepada radikal bebas. Demikian pula dengan vitamin C sebagai donor elektron sehingga cepat memutus rantai reaksi SOR (Spesies Oksigen Reaktif) dan SNR (Spesies Nitrogen Reaktif). Selenium merupakan mineral kelumit yang penting untuk sintesis protein dan aktivitas enzim glutation peroksidase (GSH-PX). Selenium mempunyai peranan sebagai katalisator dalam pemecahan peroksida yang terbentuk di dalam tubuh menjadi ikatan yang tidak bersifat toksik. Maka karena itu kecukupan zat gizi terutama vitamin dan mineral sangat diperlukan dalam mempertahankan sistem kekebalan tubuh yang  optimal sebagai upaya preventif agar selalu sehat.

scholarly journals Improving Health and Wealth by Introduction of an Affordable Bacterial Starter Culture for Probiotic Yoghurt Production in Uganda

Challenges ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 2 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nieke Westerik ◽  
Alex Paul Wacoo ◽  
Esther Anyimo ◽  
William Matovu ◽  
Gregor Reid ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Business Models ◽  
Starter Culture ◽  
Economic Benefits ◽  
The Body ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Wealth Status ◽  
Dairy Farmers ◽  
Production Distribution ◽  
And Gender ◽  
Tract Infections

In rural Africa, income generating activities of many households heavily depend on agricultural activities. In this paper, we present the results of a multi-year intervention whereby dairy farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs were taught to convert their milk into a probiotic yoghurt using an innovative bacterial starter culture and basic equipment. This intervention creates additional sources of income and employment for people involved in the delivery of milk as well as production, distribution, and sales of yoghurt. Besides the economic benefits, the consumption of the probiotic yoghurt can contribute to reduction of the incidence and severity of diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, atopic diseases, alleviate the symptoms of stomach ulcers, and decrease the uptake of aflatoxins in the body. With minimal external financial support, 116 communities or small entrepreneurs have been able to start, expand, and maintain a business by production and sales of probiotic yoghurt. Applied business models and success rate in terms of revenues and profitability varied per region and depended on location, culture, ownership structure, wealth status, and gender.

scholarly journals Relapsing Polychondritis Initially Presenting with Hoarseness and Difficulty Breathing in a 21-Year-Old Male

2016 ◽  
Vol 31 (2) ◽  
pp. 41-46
Author(s):  
Paula Francezca Padua ◽  
William L. Lim
Keyword(s):  
Case Report ◽  
Ct Scan ◽  
Cricoid Cartilage ◽  
Relapsing Polychondritis ◽  
The Body ◽  
Laryngeal Edema ◽  
Upper Respiratory Tract ◽  
Delay In Diagnosis ◽  
Difficulty Breathing ◽  
Tract Infections

Objective:       To present a case of relapsing polychondritis initially presenting with hoarseness and difficulty breathing and to discuss the diagnostic criteria and typical CT scan findings of relapsing polychondritis. Design:                       Case Report Setting:                       Tertiary Private Hospital in Metro Manila Case Report:              A 21-year-old man who was initially managed as a case of bronchial asthma for persistent hoarseness and recurrent difficulty breathing was found to have severe laryngeal edema on endoscopy, and soft tissue expansion of the cricoid cartilage with calcifications and irregular first tracheal ring on CT scan.  He also had recurrent eye redness and developed bilateral aural inflammation, and was subsequently diagnosed to have relapsing polychondritis. Conclusion:                Relapsing polychondritis is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by recurrent inflammation and eventual destruction of cartilage throughout the body. Typical manifestations may not always be present, causing a delay in diagnosis.  It should be considered in patients with intractable respiratory symptoms not responsive to treatment for upper respiratory tract infections or asthma. A CT scan may reveal signs of cartilage destruction and help in diagnosis.       Keywords:     Polychondritis, Relapsing; airway involvement; imaging

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