As the COVID-19 (or SARS-CoV-2) pandemic continues to spread across the world, social media networks have been filled with posts that highlight wondrous foods and supplements which can keep coronavirus away and provide protection, as ScienceAlert reported. Below you can find the most common myths along with explanations for why they are ineffective.
Most Promoted Foods That Reportedly Protect Against Coronavirus
Garlic
Previous research has shown that garlic does possess some antibacterial effects. Active compounds among which we can count allicin, diallyl disulfide, and allyl alcohol can defeat bacteria like salmonella, but there is little to no information regarding the effects against viruses. It is a healthy food, but it shouldn’t be perceived as a prevention method.
Lemons
A viral video shared on Facebook claims that lemonade or the consumption of warm water in which lemon slices were placed can combat the coronavirus. This theory is based on the high content of vitamin C, but this trait is shared by an abundant number of citrus and vegetables.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C does play an essential role in the immune system, but it is far from being the only necessary component. Those who claim that vitamin C will work against the coronavirus base their arguments on studies that explored the link between the vitamin and the common cold. Despite the existence of several studies that note that vitamin C can be effective, several works claim the opposite, and there is no conclusive evidence that can prove its efficiency in a practical context.
The keto diet
The keto diet rose to fame in recent years, and some practitioners claim that it can empower the immune system. Only a single study has shown positive results in the case of flu, and it used mice models, which means that the same effects may not be present in the case of humans.
For now, there are no foods or supplements that can prevent COVID-19 infection. Coronavirus, at the moment, has no vaccine or cure, but that might change soon.
