Treating Insulin Resistance with Intermittent Personalized Nutrition to Sustain Metabolic Health and Functioning Immune System for Risk Reduction of Viral Diseases Especially COVID-19 and Long-COVID

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has provided new and strong evidence for poor outcomes of viral infection in patients with poor metabolic health. Insulin resistance is at the root of many metabolic conditions and a key driver of their progression as it promotes ineffectual inflammation whilst impairing immune functions. In a vicious circle, insulin resistance facilitates SARS-CoV-2 infection, whilst infection drives insulin resistance. We discuss the underlying mechanisms and explore ways to improve metabolic health and prevent insulin resistance through early detection and targeted nutritional interventions. With proven efficacy in prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and their cardiovascular and organ complications, as much as non-alcoholic liver disease, we argue to extend such approaches to ensure resilience to the current pandemic and viral challenges beyond.

Keywords

insulin resistance - metabolic syndrome - nutrition - COVID

Publication History

Received: 21 March 2022

Accepted after revision: 30 May 2022

Accepted Manuscript online:
30 May 2022

Article published online:
09 August 2022

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