Role of Micronutrients and Gut Microbiota-Derived Metabolites in COVID-19 Recovery

Abstract

A balanced and varied diet provides diverse beneficial effects on health, such as adequate micronutrient availability and a gut microbiome in homeostasis. Besides their participation in biochemical processes as cofactors and coenzymes, vitamins and minerals have an immunoregulatory function; meanwhile, gut microbiota and its metabolites coordinate directly and indirectly the cell response through the interaction with the host receptors. Malnourishment is a crucial risk factor for several pathologies, and its involvement during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic has been reported. This pandemic has caused a significant decline in the worldwide population, especially those with chronic diseases, reduced physical activity, and elder age. Diet and gut microbiota composition are probable causes for this susceptibility, and its supplementation can play a role in reestablishing microbial homeostasis and improving immunity response against Coronavirus Disease 2019 infection and recovery. This study reviews the role of micronutrients and microbiomes in the risk of infection, the severity of disease, and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 sequelae.

A comprehensive perspective on the interaction between gut microbiota and COVID-19 vaccines

“…Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, propionate, and acetate, which are the major metabolites of intestinal microbial fermentation, are among the most studied of these microbiota-derived metabolites 77 , 78 . Studies have shown that SCFAs can enhance fatty acid production, glycolysis, and oxidative phosphorylation in B cells, providing the energy required to sustain optimal homeostatic antibodies response and antibodies generated in response to infections 79 . The results in this study also indicated that SCFAs could increase the protein expressions related to plasma cell class switching and differentiation.…”

Nutritional Strategies for Peak Performance: Guidelines for Athletes' Optimal Fueling and Recovery

“…Nutritional interventions have been shown to have a restorative effect on the immune system, facilitating recovery from illness and supporting overall well-being (37). Additionally, the impact of micronutrient deficiencies on immune function and recovery outcomes has been a focus of investigation, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate micronutrient levels during the recovery phase (38).…”