scholarly journals Antiviral Functional Foods and Exercise Lifestyle Prevention of Coronavirus

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (9) ◽  
pp. 2633 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ahmad Alkhatib
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Functional Foods ◽  
Unsaturated Fatty Acids ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Communicable Disease ◽  
System Capacity ◽  
Fermented Foods ◽  
Viral Influenza

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is causing global mortality and lockdown burdens. A compromised immune system is a known risk factor for all viral influenza infections. Functional foods optimize the immune system capacity to prevent and control pathogenic viral infections, while physical activity augments such protective benefits. Exercise enhances innate and adaptive immune systems through acute, transient, and long-term adaptations to physical activity in a dose-response relationship. Functional foods prevention of non-communicable disease can be translated into protecting against respiratory viral infections and COVID-19. Functional foods and nutraceuticals within popular diets contain immune-boosting nutraceuticals, polyphenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols, pigments, unsaturated fatty-acids, micronutrient vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folate, and trace elements, including zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper. Foods with antiviral properties include fruits, vegetables, fermented foods and probiotics, olive oil, fish, nuts and seeds, herbs, roots, fungi, amino acids, peptides, and cyclotides. Regular moderate exercise may contribute to reduce viral risk and enhance sleep quality during quarantine, in combination with appropriate dietary habits and functional foods. Lifestyle and appropriate nutrition with functional compounds may offer further antiviral approaches for public health.

scholarly journals Physical Activity and Diet Shape the Immune System during Aging

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 622 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher Weyh ◽  
Karsten Krüger ◽  
Barbara Strasser
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Immune Cell ◽  
Kynurenine Pathway ◽  
Special Focus ◽  
Dietary Interventions ◽  
Exercise Interventions ◽  
Cell Functions ◽  
Poor Nutritional Status

With increasing age, the immune system undergoes a remodeling process, termed immunosenescence, which is accompanied by considerable shifts in leukocyte subpopulations and a decline in various immune cell functions. Clinically, immunosenescence is characterized by increased susceptibility to infections, a more frequent reactivation of latent viruses, decreased vaccine efficacy, and an increased prevalence of autoimmunity and cancer. Physiologically, the immune system has some adaptive strategies to cope with aging, while in some settings, maladaptive responses aggravate the speed of aging and morbidity. While a lack of physical activity, decreased muscle mass, and poor nutritional status facilitate immunosenescence and inflammaging, lifestyle factors such as exercise and dietary habits affect immune aging positively. This review will discuss the relevance and mechanisms of immunoprotection through physical activity and specific exercise interventions. In the second part, we will focus on the effect of dietary interventions through the supplementation of the essential amino acid tryptophan, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and probiotics (with a special focus on the kynurenine pathway).

scholarly journals The relevance of nutrition as a step forward to combat COVID-19

2021 ◽  
Vol 66 (2) ◽  
pp. 53-66
Author(s):  
Zoran Zhivikj ◽  
Tanja Petreska Ivanovska ◽  
Lidija Petrushevska-Tozi
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Unsaturated Fatty Acids ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Rna Virus ◽  
The Elderly ◽  
Nutrition Intervention ◽  
Human Immune System ◽  
Ongoing Research ◽  
Prophylactic Measure ◽  
Balanced Diet

A new type of single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the coronavirus’s family named SARS-CoV-2 has recently appeared, with fast-growing human to human transmissions. This virus has posed an important global health threat. Many nutrients can support the immune system and help in preventing or in ameliorating the response to viral infections. In the case of COVID-19, the unique pathophysiology of the coronavirus needs to be understood, in order to determine whether any potential nutrition intervention is indicated. A literature survey that comprised of ongoing research was conducted to evaluate the benefits of the bioactives present in food, such as: plant-derived extracts, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and prebiotics, against the mechanisms of the COVID-19 infection. Although no food is yet confirmed to help in the prevention or in the treatment of the coronavirus transmission alone, exploring the possible implications of nutrition-infection interrelationships is of utmost importance. Well-designed and controlled clinical studies are emerging to explain whether the higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, unsaturated fatty acids, and other natural functional foods may aid in combating the COVID-19 infection. Meanwhile, a healthy and balanced diet is traditionally practised in viral infections that support the healthy gut microbiota profile. The human immune system function should be a vital prophylactic measure, along with adequate physical activities and sleeping habits. The consumption of immune-supportive nutrients is also encouraged in the elderly, comorbid, and in the immune-compromised as well as in malnourished individuals, in order to minimise the complications and the negative outcomes that are associated with the COVID-19 disease. Keywords: COVID-19 nutrition, mаcronutrients, micronutrients, bioactive compounds, malnutrition

scholarly journals Molecular mechanisms involved in the positive effects of physical activity on coping with COVID-19

2020 ◽  
Vol 120 (12) ◽  
pp. 2569-2582 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ersilia Nigro ◽  
Rita Polito ◽  
Andreina Alfieri ◽  
Annamaria Mancini ◽  
Esther Imperlini ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Skeletal Muscle ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Health Status ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Biological Processes ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Skeletal Muscle Contraction

Abstract Purpose Physical activity (PA) represents the first line of defence against diseases characterised by increased inflammation status, such as metabolic and infectious diseases. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle—associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorders—negatively impacts on general health status, including susceptibility to infections. At a time of a pandemic SARS-CoV2 infection, and in the context of the multiorgan crosstalk (widely accepted as a mechanism participating in the pathophysiology of all organs and systems), we examine the complex interplay mediated by skeletal muscle contraction involving the immune system and how this contributes to control health status and to counteract viral infections. In so doing, we review the molecular mechanisms and expression of molecules modulated by PA, able to provide the proper molecular equipment against viral infections such as the current SARS-CoV2. Methods A critical review of the literature was performed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms and mediators induced by PA that potentially impact on viral infections such as SARS-CoV2. Results We showed the effects mediated by regular moderate PA on viral adverse effects through the regulation of biological processes involving the crosstalk between skeletal muscle, the immune system and adipose tissue. Evidence was provided of the effects mediated by modulation of the expression of inflammation markers. Conclusion A tigth association between PA and reduction in inflammation status allows effective counteracting of SARS-CoV2 infection. It is therefore essential to persuade people to keep active.

Role of Rasayana in Prevention of COVID-19 - A Review

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 716-722
Author(s):  
Sneha Dhakite ◽  
Sadhana Misar Wajpeyi
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Respiratory System ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
The Body ◽  
Healthy Life ◽  
Vital Functions ◽  
Healthy Life Style ◽  
And Control

The “Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)” is caused by “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)”, a newly discovered member of the Coronaviridae family of viruses which is a highly communicable. There is no effective medical treatment till date for Coronavirus disease hence prevention is the best way to keep disease away. Rasayana proved to be highly efficacious and cost effective for the Prevention and Control of viral infections when vaccines and standard therapies are lacking. Rasayana Chikitsa is one of the eight branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda which helps to maintain healthy life style. Rasayana improves immunity and performs many vital functions of human body. Vyadhikshamatva that is immune mechanism of the body is involved in Prevention of the occurrence of a new disease and it also decreases the virulence and progression of an existing disease. In COVID-19 the Respiratory system mainly get affected which is evident from its symptoms like cold, cough and breathlessness. Here the drugs help in enhancing immune system and strengthening functions of Respiratory system can be useful. For this purpose, the Rasayana like Chyavanprasha, Agastya Haritaki, Pippali Rasayana, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Haridra, Ashwagandha, Tulsi are used. Rasayana working on Respiratory system are best for Prevention of Coronavirus and boosting immune system. Rasayana Chikitsa can be effective in the Prevention as well as reducing symptoms of COVID-19.

Relationship between Eating Patterns and Body Composition among Young Females in Qatar

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fatma Elsayed ◽  
Aram Alhammadi ◽  
Alanood Alahmad ◽  
Zahra Babiker ◽  
Abdelhamid Kerkadi
Keyword(s):  
Body Composition ◽  
Dietary Patterns ◽  
Fast Food ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Communicable Disease ◽  
Normal Weight ◽  
Female Students ◽  
Eating Patterns ◽  
Young Females ◽  
Significant Difference

The prevalence of obesity has been increased in Qatar, with the transition from healthy to unhealthy dietary habits. Behavioral factors that are associated with obesity are, long-term imbalanced energy intake, high screen time, skipping breakfast and physical inactivity. Changes in body composition and percent body fat (PBF) increase the risk of non-communicable disease. This study is the first study conducted in Qatar to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns and body composition among young females at Qatar University. This cross-sectional study consisted of 766 healthy female students Qatari and non-Qatari aged from 18-26 years randomly selected from different colleges at Qatar University. A validate questionnaire was used in order to collect data about healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns. Anthropometric measurements involved body weight, height, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI) and body composition using “Seca285”, “Seca203” and “InbodyBiospace 720”. Dietary patterns were identified by using factor loading. Linear regression was used to estimate confidence intervals and regression coefficient. More than half of the participants had a normal weight (65.1%), whereas 22.8 % and 12.0% were overweight and obese, respectively. Fat mass, BMI and PBF were slightly increased with age, but there was no significant difference. Factor analysis identified two dietary patterns: unhealthy patterns and healthy patterns. The frequent intake of vegetables and fruits was significant among high PBF female students (p=0.045 and p=0.001, respectively). The frequent intake of fast food was higher for overweight female students but there was no significant difference (p=0.289), whereas, the frequent intake of sweetened beverages was associated with higher significant rate of normal weight among female students (p = 0.009). No significant relation was found between dietary patterns, BMI and PBF. In conclusion, body composition is not significantly associated with healthy and unhealthy eating patterns among young females.

scholarly journals Does COVID-19 change dietary habits and lifestyle behaviours in Kuwait: a community-based cross-sectional study

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wafaa Husain ◽  
Fatemah Ashkanani
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Fast Food ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Lifestyle Behaviours ◽  
Late Night ◽  
Main Meal

Abstract Background The coronavirus pandemic has transformed and continues to transform and affect the daily lives of communities worldwide, particularly due to the lockdown restrictions. Therefore, this study was designed to understand the changes in dietary and lifestyle behaviours that are major determinants of health during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online questionnaire using a convenience sample of 415 adults living in Kuwait (age range 18–73 years). Results The rate of skipping breakfast remained consistent, with a slight increase during the pandemic. Lunch remained the main reported meal before and during COVID-19. Compared to before COVID-19, people were much more likely have a late-night snack or meal during COVID-19 (OR = 3.57 (95% CI 1.79–7.26), p < 0.001). Moreover, there was a drastic decrease in the frequency of fast-food consumption during COVID-19, up to 82% reported not consuming fast food (p < 0.001). There was a significant increase in the percentage of participants who had their main meal freshly made (OR = 59.18 (95% CI 6.55–1400.76), p = 0.001). Regarding food group patterns, no significant differences were found before and during the pandemic in terms of the weekly frequency of consumption, except in the case of fish and seafood. There were no remarkable changes in beverage consumption habits among participants before and during the pandemic, except for Americano coffee and fresh juice. Furthermore, there was a great reduction in physical activity and an increase in the amount of screen time and sedentary behaviours. A notable increase was detected in day-time sleep and a decrease in night-time sleep among participants. Conclusion In general, this study indicates some changes in daily life, including changes in some eating practices, physical activity and sleeping habits during the pandemic. It is important that the government considers the need for nutrition education programmes and campaigns, particularly during this critical period of the pandemic in Kuwait.

scholarly journals Can Health-Promoting Schools Contribute to Better Health Behaviors? Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Dietary Habits among Israeli Adolescents

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 1183
Author(s):  
Hila Beck ◽  
Riki Tesler ◽  
Sharon Barak ◽  
Daniel Sender Moran ◽  
Adilson Marques ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Health Behavior ◽  
Confidence Interval ◽  
Health Behaviors ◽  
Sedentary Behavior ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Group Differences ◽  
Time Behavior ◽  
Health Promoting ◽  
The Mean

Schools with health-promoting school (HPS) frameworks are actively committed to enhancing healthy lifestyles. This study explored the contribution of school participation in HPS on students’ health behaviors, namely, physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, and dieting. Data from the 2018/2019 Health Behavior in School-aged Children study on Israeli adolescents aged 11–17 years were used. Schools were selected from a sample of HPSs and non-HPSs. Between-group differences and predictions of health behavior were analyzed. No between-group differences were observed in mean number of days/week with at least 60 min of PA (HPS: 3.84 ± 2.19 days/week, 95% confidence interval of the mean = 3.02–3.34; non-HPS: 3.93 ± 2.17 days/week, 95% confidence interval of the mean = 3.13–3.38). Most children engaged in screen time behavior for >2 h/day (HPS: 60.83%; non-HPS: 63.91%). The odds of being on a diet were higher among more active children (odds ratio [OR] = 1.20), higher socio-economic status (OR = 1.23), and female (OR = 2.29). HPS did not predict any health behavior. These findings suggest that HPSs did not contribute to health behaviors more than non-HPSs. Therefore, health-promoting activities in HPSs need to be improved in order to justify their recognition as members of the HPS network and to fulfill their mission.

scholarly journals Assessment of Dietary Habits, Physical Activity and Lifestyle in Medical University Students

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 3572
Author(s):  
Lavinia-Maria Pop ◽  
Magdalena Iorga ◽  
Iulia-Diana Muraru ◽  
Florin-Dumitru Petrariu
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Fast Food ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Healthy Life ◽  
Related Data ◽  
The Third ◽  
Health Related ◽  
Medical University ◽  
Busy Schedule

A busy schedule and demanding tasks challenge medical students to adjust their lifestyle and dietary habits. The aim of this study was to identify dietary habits and health-related behaviours among students. A number of 403 students (80.40% female, aged M = 21.21 ± 4.56) enrolled in a medical university provided answers to a questionnaire constructed especially for this research, which was divided into three parts: the first part collected socio-demographic, anthropometric, and medical data; the second part inquired about dietary habits, lifestyle, sleep, physical activity, water intake, and use of alcohol and cigarettes; and the third part collected information about nutrition-related data and the consumption of fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs, fish, and sweets. Data were analysed using SPSS v24. Students usually slept M = 6.71 ± 1.52 h/day, and one-third had self-imposed diet restrictions to control their weight. For both genders, the most important meal was lunch, and one-third of students had breakfast each morning. On average, the students consumed 1.64 ± 0.88 l of water per day and had 220 min of physical activity per week. Data about the consumption of fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs, fish, sweets, fast food, coffee, tea, alcohol, or carbohydrate drinks were presented. The results of our study proved that medical students have knowledge about how to maintain a healthy life and they practice it, which is important for their subsequent professional life.

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