New Delhi: Keeping your body healthy and your immunity at its best has become a priority for almost everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially with no vaccine or specific cure available for the disease as yet. Researchers and medical professionals have suggested that apart from following all measures to keep the virus at bay, one should also ensure to prepare the body to fight the virus. This is the reason that intake of certain foods, rich in certain nutrients has increased considerably, and people are adapting to a healthier lifestyle, in general.

While vitamin C and vitamin D have been touted as the saviours from the deadly viral infection, there are some other nutrients that have also come into the picture recently. According to a study, levels of zinc in your body can significantly affect your risk of death due to COVID-19.

Low zinc levels in the blood may up death risk in COVID-19 patients – Study

A study recently conducted has found that low levels of zinc in the blood can have a poorer outcome for COVID-19 patients and increase their risk of death. In the study, researchers explored whether plasma zinc levels at admission are associated with disease outcomes in COVID patients. 

“Lower zinc levels at admission correlate with higher inflammation in the course of infection and poorer outcome,” said study author Roberto Güerri-Fernández, Hospital Del Mar, Spain, reported IANS. 

“Plasma zinc levels at admission are associated with mortality in Covid-19 in our study,” Güerri-Fernández added.

The authors did a retrospective analysis of symptomatic admitted patients to a tertiary university hospital in Barcelona over the period from March 15, 2020, to April 30, 2020. Data on existing health conditions, demography, etc was collected, and the severity of COVID-19 was assessed at the time of admission. 

Data on demography, pre-existing chronic conditions, laboratory results and treatment were collected.

Clinical severity of Covid-19 was assessed at admission. Higher zinc levels were associated with lower maximum levels of interleukin-6 (proteins that indicate systemic inflammation) during the period of active infection. Having a plasma zinc level lower than 50mcg/dl at admission was associated with a 2.3 times increased risk of in-hospital death compared with a plasma zinc level of 50mcg/dl or higher.

5 foods rich in Zinc you must include in your diet

While more research needs to be conducted on the matter, it does not come as a surprise that zinc is an important mineral required by the body for various functions. Zinc plays a major role in the sensations of taste and smell, which ironically, are also affected by COVID-19 disease. Apart from that, zinc plays a crucial role in the body’s immune system. It is responsible in cell division, growth, healing, and breakdown of carbohydrates. Here are 5 foods rich in zinc that you must try to include in your diet.

1. Legumes – Legumes are rich in zinc and should be added to your diet for a balanced, nutritious diet. Soaking, boiling, sprouting, etc help in better absorption of zinc from this food group.
2. Nuts and seeds – Nuts and seeds are not only a great mid-day snack for weight loss, they are also very nutritious. Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and cashews particularly are rich in the nutrient.
3. Dairy – Dairy foods are a rich source of zinc, among other nutrients. Dairy food items like milk and cheese should be added to your diet for a healthy body and defence system.
4. Eggs – Eggs are known for being a good source of protein. Eggs, however, can also boost immunity as they are high in zinc content. They can easily be consumed for a healthy, filling breakfast.
5. Dark chocolate – Dark chocolate is known to have health benefits such as relieving menstrual pain, and helping in boosting metabolism. Dark chocolate is also rich in zinc, which makes it an ideal, health dessert choice.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.