As I write this on February 12, 2021, almost 2.4 million people on the planet have died from COVID-19, including more than 476,000 in the U.S. And now there are several variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that are more infectious and deadly for all age groups, genders, and ethnicities.
Scientists have learned much about COVID-19 over the past year, including that there are at least 3 common processes which contribute to the pathologies seen in severe cases:
- Chronic inflammation
- Immune disorders
- Oxidative stress
In addition, it has been confirmed that 3 preexisting conditions are common in many people with COVID-19: 1) Diabetes, 2) Cardiovascular Disease, and 3) Hypertension. These underlying conditions are associated with worse COVID-19 outcomes. For example, a review of 76 studies involving over 31,000 patients, showed that those with diabetes were more than twice as likely to have a severe infection as well as die from the disease.
What does this tell us?
It tells us that it is more critical than ever to eat healthy! Why? Because consuming an unhealthy diet promotes inflammation and oxidative stress. Both can negatively impact our immune system, increasing the likelihood of more severe COVID-19 outcomes.
The Mediterranean diet has been convincingly demonstrated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other disorders that increase the risk for COVID-19 infection. Eating healthier means embracing a “Mediterranean” style of eating. That means consuming whole grains, vegetables and fruits, fish, and “healthy” fats, particularly olive oil.
A meat-based diet, high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, trans-fat, and sodium, promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, and negatively impacts the immune system. The Mediterranean Diet is high in antioxidants and contains anti-microbial and immune-boosting properties. It also reduces inflammation.
I developed Olivino as a convenient supplement for those who are unable to eat the Mediterranean Diet regularly. Olivino is composed of whole food extracts of Olives, Grapes and Tomatoes in amounts that have been clinically shown to improve heart health by maintaining healthy levels of blood pressure and blood glucose.
The Mediterranean diet may be a therapeutic approach to address both short- and long-term conditions associated with COVID-19 infection and severity and improve mortality and the overall well-being of affected populations.
If you’re not eating the Mediterranean Diet, consider trying Olivino.
Olivino is an easy way to get the health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet in just 2 capsules daily.