Iran Press/Europe: Since the global outbreak of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), there have been widespread claims on social media that certain foods and supplements can prevent or cure COVID-19. Even though the World Health Organization (WHO) has tried to dispel such myths surrounding “miracle” foods and coronavirus, misinformation continues to circulate.
Myth 1: garlic
There is some evidence showing that garlic has antibacterial effects, with existing studies indicating the active compounds of garlic (including allicin, allyl alcohol, and diallyl disulphide) are protective against some types of bacteria like salmonella and staphylococcus aureus. However, research investigating garlic’s antiviral properties is limited.
Though garlic is considered to be healthy food, there’s no evidence showing that eating it can prevent or cure COVID-19.
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Myth 2: lemons
One viral Facebook video claimed that drinking warm water with lemon slices could combat novel coronavirus. However, there’s no scientific evidence that lemon can cure the disease.
Lemon is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for helping immune cells work properly. However, many other citrus fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C.
Myth 3: vitamin C
As previously stated, Vitamin C is known to play a role in supporting the normal functioning of the immune system. Yet, it’s not the only nutrient that maintains the immune system. Most of the misinformation on vitamin C and coronavirus comes from studies that have investigated the links between vitamin C and the common cold. Despite claims online that vitamin C can prevent and treat the common cold, the evidence in support of this is not only limited but conflicting too. There are also significant differences between the common cold and coronavirus.
There’s currently no strong evidence that supplementing with vitamin C will prevent or cure COVID-19.
Most adults will also meet their vitamin C requirements from a diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables.
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