Omega-3 fatty acids as component of nutritional and metabolic treatment of patients with COVID-19 and other viral diseases (literature review)

Abstract

Nutritional deficit in patients with viral diseases, including COVID-19, can reduce the efficacy of specific treatment, decrease the survival rate, and increase medical expenses. According to international guidelines, timely correction of nutritional status with supplemental enteral and parenteral nutrition containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid from fish oil (omega-3 PUFAs: ЕРА and DHA) is able to improve clinical outcomes of specific antiviral treatment. The authors conducted an analytical review to assess the results from the study of clinical use of omega-3 PUFAs for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and other viral infections. Supplementation of clinical (enteral and parenteral) nutrition with omega-3 PUFAs allows for symptom reduction, shorter stay in hospital, and quicker recovery of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. When used in combination with adequate macronutrient support, it can reverse nutritional deficit and improve clinical outcomes.