ALERT: Low level of this nutrient can increase death risk in COVID patients

New Delhi : Since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, continuously we are being informed about the importance of various food items in keeping us safe from the deadly virus. 

A new study has found that a low level of zinc in your blood can increase your risk of dying owing to COVID-19. 

As per the scientists, increased intracellular zinc concentrations efficiently impair replication or reproduction of viruses. During this research, the researchers explored whether plasma zinc levels at admission are associated with disease outcome in Covid-19 patients.

They found that lower zinc levels at admission correlate with higher inflammation in the course of infection and poorer outcomes. 

During the study, they found that higher zinc levels are associated with lower maximum levels of interleukin-6 (proteins that indicate systemic inflammation) during the period of active infection.

The statistical analysis also showed each unit increase of plasma zinc at admission to hospital is associated with a seven per cent reduced risk of in-hospital mortality. Having a plasma zinc level lower than 50mcg/dl at admission is associated with a 2.3 times increased risk of in-hospital death compared with a plasma zinc level of 50mcg/dl or higher.

Including zinc-rich food items like nuts, whole grains, dairy products in your daily diet might be helpful.