As the United States has surpassed the one year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have quietly settled into a new normal- or at least for the foreseeable future. As new studies, research, and information are being developed by the day, the list of ways to protect ourselves continues to grow. Pertaining to that list are two immune system boosters that Dr. Greenberg has found to be especially helpful for his patients and friends who fought off COVID-19 in the past year. While these supplements can in no way cure COVID-19, their benefits have proved helpful in the recovery period and even prevention of the virus.
Vitamin D May Help Fight COVID-19
To no surprise, the primary immune system booster is vitamin D. Taking vitamin D regularly allows the body to receive the proper intake of calcium and phosphate, which are minerals that work to keep your bones, teeth, and muscles strong and healthy. When a patient has a major vitamin D deficiency, symptoms include weakness, aches, and fatigue; however, minor deficiencies often go undetected in the absence of blood work. This preliminary weakness makes it much more difficult for the body to fight the virus off.
According to a study done by the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, COVID-19 patients who were vitamin D deficient were more likely to experience the severity of the virus. Additionally, those same studies have shown that COVID-19 patients who were directed to take vitamin D supplements as part of their treatment when infected with the virus were significantly less likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit.
The bottom line is that while vitamin D won’t cure COVID-19, it can be a precautionary measure taken daily to decrease the complications you may experience if the virus is contracted. There are a variety of sources you can turn to receive an adequate amount of vitamin D, including foods such as egg yolks, mushrooms, and dairy products, or going outside for some sunlight. When it comes to vitamin D dietary supplements, Dr. Greenberg recommends taking 5000 iu daily.
CBD May Reduce Lung Damage Caused By COVID-19
As CBD’s use in the medical field continues to grow exponentially, a recent study conducted by The Dental College of Georgia (DCG) and the Medical College of Georgia suggests that the chemical compound “reduces damage in the lungs spurred by cytokine storms caused by coronavirus.” Cytokine storms are caused by an overactive inflammatory response; yet, CBD has been linked to reducing inflammation as well as lung damage, which in turn increases oxygen levels.
While few studies have conducted actual experimentation, medical researchers have tested the theory on mice, who were artificially induced with Poly(I:C) to recreate the COVID-19 symptoms in humans. The mice were then treated with CBD, which resulted in lowered levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as increases in lymphocyte levels in their blood, which are important white blood cells for fighting off infections.”
Despite the fact that much more research and development must be conducted in the months to come, CBD’s experimentation and uses discovered thus far suggest the chemical compound may reduce lung damage caused by COVID-19. While there’s definitely no harm in adding vitamin D and CBD into your dietary supplement routine to be precautionary, be sure to wash your hands, wear a mask when outside of your home, and stay safe!
Interested in learning more about the vitamins and supplements Dr. Greenberg takes daily and recommends to his patients? Check out Greenberg Regenerative Medicine’s eshop and sign up for your monthly subscription today!
