Recomendaciones de micronutrientes para grupos vulnerables en contexto de desnutrición, durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Latinoamérica

The COVID-19 crisis (SARS-CoV-2) might transform into a food catastrophe in Latin America and would increase the number of people suffering from hunger from 135 to 265 million, particularly in Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti and El Salvador, already facing economic and health crises This manuscript presents the position of a group of Latin American experts in nutrition for establishing the recommendations for consumption and/or supplementation with vitamin A, C, D, zinc, iron, folates and multiple micronutrients, in undernutrition contexts, for vulnerable population of pregnant and lactating women, children under 5 years and the elderly The recommendations seek to decrease the potential impact that COVID-19 will have on nutritional status during the pandemic The position arises from the discussion of the experts based on the review of current scientific evidence for these vulnerable groups It aims to reach stakeholders, public policy makers, health personnel and civil society organizations Only after breastfeeding and a sufficient diet in terms of quantity and quality, a supplementation with the micronutrients mentioned above can help prevent and treat viral diseases, strengthen the immune system and even reduce complications Breastfeeding with respiratory hygiene measures, the provision of multiple micronutrients powders for children from 6 moths to 5 years of age and the supply of iron and folates or multiple micronutrients tablets for pregnant women are proven and effective strategies that must continue to be implemented during COVID-19 pandemic For older adults, supplementation with vitamin C, D and zinc might be indicated