If you live anywhere on this planet, you would be affected, either directly or indirectly, by the coronavirus or COVID-19. To date, there are over 100,000 cases worldwide and that number continues to rise. As you know, if your immune system is comprised or you have a chronic illness, you are susceptible to the disease. So, what does that mean for type 2 diabetics?
As with any epidemic – in this case it’s pandemic – many bogus claims of cures and remedies are being circulated. I came across some information on ConsumerLab.com that I found to be very helpful. I hope you will too. Consumer Lab tests and reviews many products for quality, appropriateness of strength, dosage, and value. Many people have been inquiring about the use of supplements to treat coronavirus. Here’s what Consumer Lab had to say about some of them:
Zinc: According to Consumer Lab, an email written by a pathologist recommending zinc lozenges to ward off the virus has gone viral. Zinc does have anti-viral properties and one laboratory study has shown that it can inhibit the replication of the coronavirus in cells. However, Consumer Lab states there is no evidence at this time to show that zinc lozenges can prevent or treat coronavirus.
The article issues other warnings about the use of zinc lozenges:
- daily doses of zinc lozenges usually exceed tolerable upper limits and therefore should not be used for more than a week.
- excessive use of zinc can cause copper deficiency.
- zinc can interfere with the absorption of antibiotics.
- zinc nasal gels or swabs can lead to loss of smell.
Vitamin C: Maybe you already take Vitamin C as part of your daily regimen. Consumer Lab says that doing so can help you fight off infections and boost your immune system. Taking 500 mg twice daily can also reduce the severity and duration of a cold, but there is no evidence to suggest that taking Vitamin C after you get a cold will help to get rid of it. The normal recommended daily allowance of Vit. C is 75 to 120 mg. You can get about 80 to 90mg from a cup of orange juice, or an orange, a cup of sweet peppers, a kiwi or tomato juice.
The article reports that many websites and videos are recommending extremely high doses of Vitamin C, as much as 5000 mg to ward off COVID-19. These high doses of Vitamin C can cause diarrhea, and even increase the risk of cataracts.
Vitamin D: To maintain a healthy level of Vitamin D in the body ( 20 to 30 ng/mL ) you need between 400 to 800 IU daily. This may reduce the risk of respiratory infections in children and adults. Higher doses may be taken to boost low levels, but there is no research suggesting that Vit. D can reduce the risk of infection by coronavirus.
You can get Vitamin D by exposure to the sun at least three times a week for 30 minutes. This is where your physical activity comes in. You can also get Vitamin D from fortified products such as milk, dairy and some plant-based milks. You may also take supplements in the dosage mentioned above.
Coronavirus is a serious illness and not to be taken lightly. Please make sure you have your meds on hand and follow the advice of the CDC. There are many myths and pieces of misinformation circulating out there. Please be careful. If you feel sick or are in doubt about something, call your doctor before using any of the products you see advertised on some sites. And if you are in need of a coach to help you reach your healthcare goals, please contact me. Consultation is free and you are under no obligation to buy anything.
