A recent study warned of factors that may lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of the emerging corona virus vaccine "Covid-19", so what are they, what are the recommendations to increase the effectiveness of the vaccine, and how to prepare yourself for vaccination?
The study was conducted by researchers from Ohio State University and published in the journal Advance Social Sciences & Humanities, in a preprinted state, and has not yet been peer-reviewed (that is, not yet reviewed by other researchers and scientists).
The research review shed light on the main psychological and behavioral factors that can affect the immune system response to the vaccine, and the results have been generalized to a variety of vaccines, and then they are likely to be related to the emerging corona virus vaccine, whose scientific name is "SARS Cove 2" -COV-2).
The researchers said that the Corona virus vaccines, although they are very effective, but these psychological and behavioral factors can affect how long it takes to develop protective immunity, as well as how long immunity lasts.
In summary, the following foods may play a role in weakening the body's response to the vaccine, namely:
1- Unhealthy foods high in fat.
2- Refined sugars.
3- Processed foods.
As for habits, these habits may weaken the body's response to the vaccine:
1- Lack of sleep.
2- Lethargy.
The following is the details.
How does nutrition affect the effectiveness of vaccines?
According to previous research, the general diet may be an important consideration in vaccine effectiveness. For example, the Western diet, which is high in fats, refined sugars, and processed foods, is responsible for an epidemic of chronic inflammation and obesity. Inflammation is higher among obese people, in part because fat cells can increase inflammatory signals, which reduces the ability of the immune system to form an effective response to immune challenges.
In contrast, gut microorganisms play a role in vaccine responses. For example, dietary fiber intake promotes a greater abundance of bacteria such as Bifidobacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, which can enhance antibody responses.
Overeating is common during stressful times, especially energy-rich foods, which increases weight gain.
After one month of forced lockdown in northern Italy, obese individuals reported gaining an average of 3.3 pounds (about 1.5 kilograms), as it was associated with unhealthy food consumption, increased anxiety, symptoms of depression, and decreased exercise.
There are also concerns that school closures due to the pandemic may reinforce poor eating behavior and weight gain in children.
Additionally, malnutrition, which is common among the elderly, may jeopardize the older person's vaccine response.
The following diagram shows 9 of the most prominent symptoms of Corona virus, and to find out a detailed list of symptoms of Corona infection, click on this link.
How does sleep affect the effectiveness of vaccines?
Survey data from the Chinese general public found, during the outbreak of "Covid-19" in February 2020, that 20% met the characteristics of insomnia, and the same percentage spent more than an hour awake in bed.
Sleep significantly affects immune function, as those who are regularly deprived of sleep are not only at great risk of not responding to the vaccine, but they are also at risk of developing serious diseases.
The relationship between disturbed sleep and low antibody responses has been documented in many studies.
For example, there is a study linking fewer hours of sleep and producing fewer antibodies after receiving a flu vaccine.
In contrast, insomnia is a central problem in light of the Covid-19 epidemic, as the task force of the European Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Academy task force issued practical recommendations for dealing with sleep problems during confinement at home. Socializing to share concerns, limit exposure to "Covid-19" news, maintain regular bedtime and wake up, in addition to other sleep advice.
How does physical activity and sport affect the effectiveness of vaccines?
Physical activity promotes a stronger immune system and better responses to the vaccine.
According to studies, people who are physically fit have better immune responses after receiving vaccinations.
The World Health Organization recommends 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise such as walking, or 75 minutes per week of high-intensity exercise such as jogging.
Achieving these guidelines is associated with a 17% reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease, a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 23%, and a reduced incidence of type 2 diabetes by 26%.
The researchers said that the "Covid-19" pandemic and associated stress reinforce poor health behaviors that in turn lead to deterioration of mental and physical health, in a vicious circle that ultimately causes weight gain.
Ironically, the lifestyle during the pandemic, including psychological tension as a result of closure, loss of job and fear of disease, can reduce the effectiveness of the Corona vaccine.
How to prepare for the vaccine?
1- See your doctor first.
2- Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes vegetables and fruits and is rich in dietary fiber.
3- Stay away from unhealthy, processed foods that are high in fat and sugar.
This is good for your health in general, and reduces the risk of obesity, which is associated with an increased risk of complications from any disease, including "Covid-19".
4- Exercise and exercise according to your age and health condition, and consult a doctor.
5- Get enough sleep, an average of 8 hours of continuous and restful sleep, and consult your doctor because sleep needs may vary with age.
6- Reduce stress, and if you feel anxious and depressed, it is appropriate to consult a doctor, especially if this affects your sleep and eating.