When President Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19, his pill arsenal included zinc and Vitamin D. In one social media account as well, the actress Jennifer Garner advertised vitamins D and C as ways that might in general boost the immune system. However, over-the-counter supplements can actually prevent or even treat COVID-19 is not clear. COVID-19 is a new disease that researchers haven’t that much time for a large experiment that provides the best answers. Instead, scientists have mostly relied on fresh takes on old data. Some studies have looked at outcomes of patients who routinely take certain supplements and found some promising hints. So far, there’s little data that give doctors confidence when recommending supplements.

Here’s what we know today about three supplements getting plenty of attention around COVID-19.

1. VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is a hormone-building block that helps strengthen the immune system. It is called the sunshine vitamin because the body makes it naturally in the presence of ultraviolet light. This supplement could help inhibit respiratory infections particularly in people who are lacking in the vitamin. Taking the supplement excessively could stress certain internal organs, make new health complications, and leading to a dangerously high calcium build-up in the blood. The suggested everyday allowance for adults is 600 to 800 units each day, and the upper limit is considered to be 4,000 units each day.

2. VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is also called L-ascorbic acid that has a long list of roles in the body. It’s found naturally in vegetables and fruits, especially tomatoes, citrus, and peppers. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that’s vital for preventing inflammation and a healthy immune system. Vitamin C might prevent the susceptibility to lower respiratory tract infections under certain conditions.

3. ZINC

Zinc is found naturally in certain oysters, meats, and beans. This is a mineral that can be found in cells all over the body. It plays several supportive roles in the immune system, which is why zinc lozenges are always hot sellers in flu and cold season. Zinc also helps with cell division and growth. Using the supplement right after any symptoms of infection start might make them go away quicker.

According to researchers, public health officials must issue a clear set of nutritional references to accompany messages about the role of vaccinations, hand washing, and other health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The roles that vitamins C, D, and zinc play in immunity are mostly well known. Vitamin C has parts in some aspects of immunity, including the antibody production and function and growth of immune cells. Vitamin D receptors as well affect their function on immune cells. This means that vitamin D intensely impacts your reaction to infections. Zinc has a supportive role in the immune system.

The problem is that people simply aren’t eating enough of these nutrients. This may destroy your battle against infections. As a result, there is an increase in disease and all of the extra burdens that go along with that increase. For this reason, make an effort to take these supplements to protect yourself and others from any infections.