A recent study published in PLoS One suggests that following a Mediterranean diet may help protect individuals from contracting Covid-19. The study, conducted by lead author Ceria Halim and colleagues from the Department of Center of Evidence-Based Medicine at Universitas Sumatera Utara in Indonesia, analyzed three observational studies with a total sample size of 52,670 Covid-19 patients to investigate the effects of a Mediterranean diet on Covid-19 severity.
The study found that specific food groups in the Mediterranean diet, such as olive oil, fish, legumes, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and vegetables, may play a role in reducing the risk of contracting Covid-19. These food items contain properties that can stimulate the immune system and act as anti-inflammatory agents, which may help in fighting infections.
Furthermore, the authors highlighted that higher olive oil consumption, lower red meat consumption, lower cereal consumption, moderate alcohol intake, and higher consumption of fruit and nuts were associated with reduced Covid-19 risk. Additionally, adherence to a complete Mediterranean diet was found to be more effective in preventing Covid-19 infections compared to consuming isolated food items like olive oil.
Another study published in Frontiers in Nutrition in 2022 also supported the notion that a Mediterranean diet may prevent Covid-19 infections. The authors of this study emphasized that individuals with diabetes could greatly benefit from this diet and become less susceptible to contracting Covid-19.
Overall, while these studies suggest a potential link between a Mediterranean diet and reduced Covid-19 risk, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions. The authors of the studies cautioned against assuming a protective effect of higher Mediterranean diet adherence against Covid-19 symptoms and severity without conclusive evidence.