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Vitamins, supplements won’t reduce COVID risk
Although vitamins are an important part of overall health, new research suggests that they don’t play a large role in protecting against COVID-19.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a mineral that naturally occurs in many foods and is also available as a supplement. It plays multiple roles in the body. It is a key element of bones, teeth, and cell membranes. It helps to…
Iodine
Iodine is an essential trace mineral not made by the body so must be obtained by food or supplements. It is found naturally in some foods and is added to supplements and some salt seasonings. Iodine is needed…
Chromium
Chromium is an essential mineral that the body needs in trace amounts. It is naturally present in a wide variety of foods, though only in small amounts, and is also available as a supplement. Chromium enhances the action…
Can vitamins help protect against COVID-19?
The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a flurry of research aimed at understanding what, if any, protective benefit vitamins and supplements may provide, according to news reports. In a December 1, 2020 Elemental article, Walter Willett, professor of epidemiology…
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral most often associated with healthy bones and teeth, although it also plays an important role in blood clotting, helping muscles to contract, and regulating normal heart rhythms and nerve functions. About 99% of the…
Choline
Choline is an essential nutrient that is naturally present in certain foods and available as a supplement. The body can also produce small amounts on its own in the liver, but not enough to meet daily needs. Choline…
Pantothenic Acid – Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is naturally present in foods, added to foods, and available as a supplement. It is used to make coenzyme A (CoA), a chemical compound that helps enzymes to build and break down fatty…
Riboflavin – Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is naturally present in foods, added to foods, and available as a supplement. Bacteria in the gut can produce small amounts of riboflavin, but not enough to meet dietary needs. Riboflavin is a key…
Niacin – Vitamin B3
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble B vitamin found naturally in some foods, added to foods, and sold as a supplement. The two most common forms of niacin in food and supplements are nicotinic acid and nicotinamide.…
