A prominent preventive medicine expert notes that dietary choices can influence immune resilience against infections such as COVID-19. Heavy consumption of red meat, smoked and pickled foods, and highly sugary or strong alcoholic beverages may reduce the protective power of antibodies by altering how the body balances acidity and alkalinity. This perspective comes from Dr. Chudakov, who leads a preventive medicine department focused on public health in the NTI HealthNet network, and who shared these observations in a health-focused discussion.
He explains that certain foods tend to tilt the body’s balance toward acidity, while others help maintain a more neutral or alkaline state. The acidity-promoting items most often cited include pan-seared red meat, all smoked and pickled products, desserts, fast foods, strong alcoholic drinks and sour wines, coffee, and sweetened carbonated beverages. Conversely, most fruits and vegetables are positioned as beneficial, with even tangy ingredients like lemons and beverages such as green tea contributing positively to overall balance. The implication is that a diet favoring these items could create a less hospitable environment for immune function, potentially diminishing the effectiveness of antibodies in fighting coronavirus. This interpretation aligns with a broader view that the body’s internal environment can influence immune readiness and response in meaningful ways.
To assess where a person stands, Dr. Chudakov notes that simple testing methods are available. Special test strips can be used to gauge the body’s acid-base balance, offering both saliva and urine testing options. Such tests can provide insights into whether a person’s dietary pattern is nudging the body toward acidity or maintaining a healthier balance. The practical takeaway is that individuals can monitor their own baselines and make informed dietary adjustments to support immune health as part of a balanced lifestyle common in North American contexts.
Within North America, clinicians emphasize that while diet is only one piece of the puzzle, a whole-food, plant-forward approach paired with moderate animal products can contribute to better overall well-being. Public health professionals in Canada and the United States encourage diverse, nutrient-dense foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and moderate amounts of fermented or smoked items when chosen carefully. The goal is to support immune function without compromising general health or long-term risk factors. In practical terms, this means prioritizing fresh produce, reducing highly processed snacks and sugary beverages, and choosing meals that balance macronutrients with micronutrients important for immune system performance. This approach also aligns with recommendations for maintaining hydration, getting adequate sleep, and staying physically active, all of which play complementary roles in immune readiness.
Experts reiterate that individual responses vary, and dietary effects on immunity should be viewed in the context of overall lifestyle and medical history. For those in Canada and the United States contemplating dietary adjustments, it can be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or specific nutrient needs. While at-home tests provide a convenient way to track changes in the body’s balance, they should be interpreted cautiously and as part of a broader health strategy rather than as a definitive diagnostic tool. The overarching message is to favor a balanced, evidence-informed diet that supports immune health while minimizing risk factors associated with long-term disease.
In the broader conversation about preventing infections, the emphasis remains on consistent habits, not quick fixes. A steady pattern of healthy eating, regular physical activity, and routine medical checkups offers the strongest foundation for maintaining robust immune function in everyday life across North America.