Plant-Based Diets Could Lower Covid-19 Infection Risk, Study Suggests

University of Sao Paulo research finds vegetarians and vegans have a 39% lower chance of catching the virus, but some experts question the study's conclusions.

Researchers from the University of Sao Paulo have found that a plant-based diet could reduce the risk of catching Covid-19 by more than a third.
The study involved more than 700 participants, with those following a vegetarian or vegan diet showing a 39% lower chance of infection.
The researchers believe that plant-based diets, rich in antioxidants, phytosterols and polyphenols, could boost the immune system and exhibit antiviral properties.
However, the study has been criticized for its small sample size and observational nature, with some experts arguing that the conclusions are premature and not warranted.
The study did not find a correlation between diet and the severity or duration of Covid-19 infection.