That’s the gut-lung axis where our microbiota guide immune response to the new SARS-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).
When there is a healthy balance of microbiota, a person can be an asymptomatic carrier of the virus. When there is an imbalance of microbiota, known as gut dysbiosis, the host immune system can react adversely, an inflammatory reaction known as cytokine storm leading to damaging neutrophil activity. In short, we become our own worst enemies.
This is why research has shown the elderly are at most risk, because natural aging often includes reduced or absent protective microbiota such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.
Indeed, studies have shown that fermented foods such as kimchi and kefir are protective, including against coronaviruses. These foods are especially high in Lactobacillus. Zinc is also shown to inhibit coronavirus replication.
So, what can we do to maintain a healthy balance of microbes for an optimal immune response? Here’s the shortlist:
Life Extension Bifido GI Balance — 60 Vegetarian Capsules
Jarrow Formulas Ideal Bowel Support L. Plantarum 299v™ — 10 billion – 30 Capsules
Garden of Life RAW Probiotics™ Men 50 and Wiser — 85 billion – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Garden of Life RAW Probiotics™ Men — 85 billion – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Garden of Life RAW Probiotics™ Women 50 and Wiser — 85 billion – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Garden of Life RAW Probiotics™ Women — 85 billion – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Probiotic Kyolic Kyo-Dophilus® Digestion and Immune Health
Natren Healthy Trinity Dairy Free — 60 Capsules
Jarrow Formulas Ideal Bowel Support L. Plantarum 299v™ — 10 billion – 30 Capsules
Homemade kefir, fermented 48 hours for Lactobacillus dominance.
Also, making your own fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and beet kvass (made with lots of fresh ginger).
For vitamin A, five (5) gels/day: Vitacost Cold Water Arctic Cod Liver Oil — 2200 mg – 300 Softgels
NutriBiotic Buffered Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C Powder — 16 oz
Here’s a liposomal form of vitamin C
NOW Zinc Picolinate — 50 mg – 120 Veg Capsules one cap/day
For vitamin E, foods like sunflower seeds and almonds (also prebiotic for Lactobacillus).
Life Extension Se-Methyl L-Selenocysteine — 200 mcg – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Vitacost Vitamin D3 Mini Gels — 5000 IU – 365 Softgels usually 2 gels/day, sometimes 3
Note: topping the food list for zinc is oysters: Crown Prince Naturally Smoked Oysters with Red Chili Peppers Mildly Spiced — 3 oz
Life Extension Se-Methyl L-Selenocysteine — 200 mcg – 90 Vegetarian Capsules
To know your balance, microbial DNA Stool testing:
https://thegutclub.org/thryve-gut-test-and-probiotics/
For more personalized information, here’s our Microbiome Balancing Private Consult