A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial Evaluating Concentrated Phytochemical-Rich Nutritional Capsule in Addition to a Probiotic Capsule on Clinical Outcomes among Individuals with COVID-19—The UK Phyto-V Study

Abstract

Gut microflora dysbiosis affects the majority of individuals after COVID-19, contributing to both gastro-intestinal (GI) and non-GI symptoms. Natural phytochemicals have reported anti-viral properties and favourable effects on inflammatory and oxidative pathways, both important for tissue damage post-viral pneumonia. This study involved 147 participants with symptomatic COVID-19, randomised to receive a placebo (P) or a phytochemical-rich concentrated food capsule (PC) in addition to a pre/probiotic lactobacillus capsule. Participants taking the PC had an almost two-fold reduction in mean fatigue scores compared to P [p = 0.02], a three-fold reduction in cough score and more than a double improvement in overall well-being scores [p = 0.02]. Two (1.5%) participants reported mild, increased bloating which they felt was attributable to the capsules, although GI symptoms improved in 25 of 31 participants (82%) who reported them at baseline. Sedentary, older, previously hospitalised men with GI symptoms had a statistically significantly improvement among those given the probiotic. Although some participants with early disease would have improved spontaneously, such a rapid improvement observed in the majority of participants, who had been suffering for an average of 108 days, was clinically relevant and welcomed, especially among those more likely to have pre-existing gut dysbiosis. We are now evaluating whether this blend could also enhance antibody titres post-COVID-19 vaccination.

Long COVID: major findings, mechanisms and recommendations

“…A small trial of sulodexide in individuals with endothelial dysfunction saw a reduction in symptom severity 169 . Pilot studies of probiotics indicated potential in alleviating gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal symptoms 170 , 171 . Two patients with long COVID experienced substantial alleviation of dysautonomia symptoms following stellate ganglion block 172 .…”

Positive Effects of Probiotic Therapy in Patients with Post-Infectious Fatigue

“…The results are promising and should prompt further longitudinal studies with more patients to investigate underlying pathomechanisms and changes in the microbiome of post-infectious fatigue patients. Especially in patients with Post-COVID19 conditions such studies will be helpful, as results of a recent study showed that the intervention with probiotics in combination with enzymes [ 55 ] or phyto preparations [ 56 ] was effective to reduce persistent symptoms and probiotic therapy during acute infection led to fewer symptoms compared to patients without such a treatment [ 57 ].…”

What do we know about covid-19’s effects on the gut?

“…One study gave probiotic capsules to people experiencing GI and non-GI symptoms of covid for an average of 108 days. It found that those given the probiotic (but not the control group) showed a significant improvement in cough, fatigue, and overall wellbeing, as well as in GI symptoms 10…”