Possible Link between Gut Microbiota, Diet, and COVID-19 Infection

Review of the relationship between gut microbiota, diet, and COVID-19 infection. Authors analyze how SARS-CoV-2 infection affects gut microbiota composition and how dietary factors may influence disease outcomes. Studies show COVID-19 patients experience significant changes in gut microbiome composition, with decreased abundance of beneficial bacteria, while showing increases in potentially harmful bacteria. These alterations correlate with disease severity and inflammatory cytokine levels. Authors discuss how dietary interventions, particularly probiotics and prebiotics, may help combat COVID-19 by modulating the gut-lung axis and immune responses. Authors also examine the role of micronutrients, finding that vitamin D deficiency correlates with increased COVID-19 severity, while vitamin C supplementation may help prevent cytokine storm. Zinc deficiency is associated with worse outcomes, and selenium status may influence mortality rates. Authors call for further research to better understand the complex interactions between diet, gut health, and COVID-19 pathogenesis.

Probiotic efficacy depends on the specific strains used. Specific microbes may decrease or increase COVID-19 risk1.