Plant-based diets and COVID-19

Plant-based diets have been shown to decrease the risk of respiratory infections and may have direct effects on the course of COVID-19. Vegetable nitrates, polyphenols, and the beneficial effects on the microbiome found in plant-based diets can help strengthen lung defenses against infection and have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that those consuming more pro-inflammatory diets have a higher risk of severe COVID-19. Plant-based diets are beneficial in reducing the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms and infection, independent of other health-related factors.