Researchers name affordable products that reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19
A new study by scientists from Northwestern University in the United States has shown that regular consumption of coffee and large amounts of vegetables may provide some protection against the coronavirus.
Human nutrition affects immunity, and the immune system plays a key role in a person’s response to infectious diseases, including COVID-19, says Marilyn Cornelis, lead author of the study.
Using data from a British biobank, the researchers examined the link between the diet of 37,988 participants and the incidence of COVID-19 between March and December 2020 (before vaccines became available). They found out how often the subjects consumed coffee, tea, vegetables, fruits, fatty fish, and processed and red meat. In addition, experts analyzed information from other studies related to the effect of nutrition on immunity.
The work of scientists, published in the journal Nutrients, showed that drinking 2-3 cups of coffee and servings of fresh or cooked vegetables per day is associated with a lower risk of contracting coronavirus (the risk is reduced by about 10%). At the same time, frequent consumption of processed meat (sausages, bacon, etc. ) increases the likelihood of contracting COVID-19.
Scientists do not know exactly why these products have such a protective effect on the body.
Coffee is the main source of caffeine, but it also contains dozens of other compounds that could potentially underlie our seeing protective properties. The same goes for vegetables, said Dr Cornelis.
