COVID-19: human immune response and the influence of food ingredients and active compounds

Abstract

The human immune system is the first line of defense in the prevention of viruses and diseases, and several immune response mechanisms are engaged at the onset of a pathogenic attack. In this review, we elucidate the human immune system as a critical element in protecting humans from COVID-19 by describing the immune process, explaining how the immune system functions, and highlighting the immune system’s global importance in fighting infections. Potential challenges that limit the proper functioning of the immune system are also discussed. In addition, we address the impact of nutrition on boosting the body’s defenses against COVID-19. For example, some foods and active compounds from food ingredients have been suggested as a way to strengthen the immune system. Physical exercise has also been encouraged as an important way to support the immune response to viral infections. The aim of this review is thus to outline holistic self-defense immunity mechanisms that can help to reduce the risk of viral infections in humans. This review could therefore be used as a comprehensive resource for educating consumers and the general public about measures that can enhance the body’s immune support system as we continue to fight COVID-19 and its variants.Keywords: Immunity, Covid-19 COVID-19, Nutrition, Bioactive compounds, Food Ingredients

The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Seafood Safety and Human Health

“…Caffeic acid derivative-based functional foods could be used to develop anti-COVID-19 therapies (Adem et al, 2021). Selective and proper functional/bioactive material should be supplemented to enhance immunity (Ayivi et al, 2021). Han and Hoang (2020) have discussed the role of different functional components/foods that could boost immunity and be used as probable components with the current pandemic.…”

“…For example, vitamins A, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E, and zinc and iodine help regulate inflammation and protect against viral infections (Calder and Grimble, 2002). Conversely, the deficiency of any of the above nutrients can impair the maintenance of homeostasis (Ayivi et al, 2021). Sultan et al (2014) have discussed the bioactive components present in garlic, ginger, purple coneflower, black cumin, and liquorice to maintain homeostasis and boost immunity.…”

“…The immune system has a significant role in defending against various infections ( Hollman, 2001 ), including COVID-19 ( Benarba and Pandiella, 2020 ), which became a powerful tool for resisting the COVID-19 disease ( Ayivi et al, 2021 ). Natural antimicrobials from plants and microorganisms (fermented foods, prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics) enhance immunity by modulating gut and respiratory systems.…”

“…Caffeic acid derivative-based functional foods could be used to develop anti-COVID-19 therapies ( Adem et al, 2021 ). Selective and proper functional/bioactive material should be supplemented to enhance immunity ( Ayivi et al, 2021 ).…”

“…For example, vitamins A, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E, and zinc and iodine help regulate inflammation and protect against viral infections ( Calder and Grimble, 2002 ). Conversely, the deficiency of any of the above nutrients can impair the maintenance of homeostasis ( Ayivi et al, 2021 ).…”