Effect of Kefir Produced from Cow Milk on Clinical Outcomes and Immune Response of Patients with COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of kefir consumption, a popular traditional probiotic product, on immune response and recovery COVID-19 patients. Methods: In double-blind, randomized controlled trial, 100 patients with were enrolled in two equal groups (receiving 250 cc milk containing granules (2 - 10%) twice daily for weeks placebo group). Inflammatory indices, hematological factors, clinical outcomes such as fever, pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, dyspnea assessed at beginning end using checklist prepared by research team. Changes parameters before after intervention calculated. Results: We found that PO2 saturation, WBC, neutrophil significantly increased group, but Hb, lymphocyte, platelet kefir-treated group. Also, CRP ESR decreased The did not differ pulse rate, respiratory axillary temperature. There no significant differences between signs symptoms disease, except dry cough. Conclusions: Kefir seems improve inflammatory factors slightly does disease symptoms.