One of the reasons for this is a reduced level of vitamin D in our blood stream because we get less sunshine on our skin in the winter months. Research shows that respiratory infections are more common and more severe in those with vitamin D deficiency, Zinc deficiency and vitamin C deficiencies. During these times with a SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 virus out there, here are a few tips to help keep yourself healthy.
Both before exposure to the virus and during the initial signs and symptoms of respiratory illness, consider the following options to support your respiratory health and the health of your immune system: (parts of the following have been taken from Life Extension.org, and parts from Dr. Mercola.com
1. Zinc Lozenges: Completely dissolve in mouth one lozenge containing 18.75 mg of zinc acetate every two waking hours. Do not exceed 8 lozenges daily, and do not use for more than three consecutive days. Zinc gluconate,1 zinc acetate2 and zinc sulphate3 have all been shown to reduce the severity and duration of viral infections. Zinc also appears to be the key ingredient in treatment protocols using hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). The reason for this is because HCQ is a zinc ionophore (zinc transport molecule). Quercetin also has the ability to inhibit the virus’ ability to infect cells by transporting zinc across cellular membranes and inhibit the replication of already infected cells.
2. Garlic: Take 9,000‒18,000 mg of high-allicin garlic each day until symptoms subside. Take with food to minimize stomach irritation.
3. Vitamin D: If you do not already maintain a blood level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D over 50 ng/mL, then take 50,000 IU of vitamin D the first day and continue for three more days and slowly reduce the dose to around 5,000 IU of vitamin D each day. If you already take around 5,000 IU of vitamin D daily, then you probably do not need to increase your intake.
4. Vitamin C: Several studies have shown that taking vitamin C both before and soon after the onset of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, may help ease symptom burden and reduce the duration of illness. A 2017 case report suggested that high-dose intravenous vitamin C may have contributed to the recovery of a 20-year-old patient with ARDS due to a viral respiratory tract infection.
Another precaution that is wise to do BEFORE you need it, is purchasing a nebulizer (available at London drugs, other drug stores or on line). Purchase additional masks as well, for other members of your family. Nebulizing a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide for a viral infection is considered incredibly safe. In my view, this is an inexpensive treatment that can be administered at home without a prescription. This is a way of helping yourself and your family. Use a ¼ tsp of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 7 ¼ tsp of sterile water in your nebulizer.
And don’t forget to get outside every day for walk in the fresh air, while the sun is shining.