Why Underlying or Comorbid Conditions are Very Important in COVID-19

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Introduction

It is well-known that older adults are at greater risk of complications from COVID-19, but few realize that the majority of those hospitalized in the US [1] have common underlying medical conditions. These comorbid conditions include high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. While we focus on physical distancing and hygiene, we must also address dietary and lifestyle changes documented to put these conditions into remission.

Research published in April 2020 reported that among laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 hospitalizations, almost 90% had one or more comorbid conditions. Specifically, nearly 50% of patients had hypertension or obesity, and roughly 30% had diabetes or cardiovascular disease [1].

Changing What is in Our Control

Many feel powerless during this outbreak, but we can lower our risk by improving our metabolic markers. We can achieve a normal body weight and waist circumference, and normalize blood pressure and blood sugar levels. A 2018 study reported that 88% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy, meeting only 12% of the criteria for optimal health [2].

Metabolic health is defined by these markers:

  1. Waist Circumference: < 102 cm (men) / 88 cm (women)
  2. Blood Pressure: < 120/80 mmHG
  3. Fasting Glucose: < 5.5 mmol/L (100 mg/dL)
  4. HbA1c: < 5.7%
  5. Triglycerides: < 1.7 mmol/l
  6. HDL Cholesterol: ≥ 1.00 mmol/L (men) / 1.30 mmol/L (women)

Lowering Your Risk Through Nutrition

While we cannot change our age, we can lower our risk of severe outcomes. If you are overweight, you can lose weight. If you have high blood pressure or high blood sugar, these can often be normalized through structured Medical Nutrition Therapy. Type 2 diabetes does not have to be a chronic progressive disease; it can be put into remission.

Final Thoughts

With more of us eating at home, now is an ideal time to learn how to eat in a way that improves metabolic health. Taking control of your diet is a proactive way to lower your risk of serious complications should you contract the virus.

More Info?

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To your good health!

Joy

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References

  1. Garg S, Kim L, Whitaker M, et al. Hospitalization Rates and Characteristics of Patients Hospitalized with Laboratory-Confirmed Coronavirus Disease 2019 — COVID-NET, 14 States, March 1—30, 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020. [https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6915e3]
  2. Araújo J, Cai J, Stevens J. Prevalence of Optimal Metabolic Health in American Adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009–2016. Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders. 2019. [https://doi.org/10.1089/met.2018.0105]
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