It’s good to Take A Leek.

Leek lectins help fight SARS

Mannose Binding Lectins (MBLs) are a natural and critical component of our innate immune system which can recognize coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV.

MBLs are commonly found in plants. This is another reason why eating a variety of fruits and vegetables strengthens your immune system with a broader spectrum of protection.

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Leeks come from a healthy family.

Allium vegetables like garlic and onions are widely used as herbal supplements to improve our health (with no obvious side effects). Leeks (allium porrum) are a part of this healthy family of vegetables.

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Leeks are tasty.

Try some of our recipe ideas to supplement your diet with fresh leeks from your local market. Leek bulbs (the white part) contains most of the antiviral MBLs and has a mild flavor.

 
 

One medium leek (0.5 kg / 9 oz) a week for a family of 4 provides a healthy amount of important mannose binding lectins. If you like it, eat more!

  1. Keyaerts E, Vijgen L, Pannecouque C, et al. Plant lectins are potent inhibitors of coronaviruses by interfering with two targets in the viral replication cycle. Antiviral Res. 2007;75(3):179-187.

  2. Gupta A, Gupta GS. Status of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and complement system in COVID-19 patients and therapeutic applications of antiviral plant MBLs. Mol Cell Biochem. 2021;476(8):2917-2942.

  3. Ip WK, Chan KH, Law HK, et al. Mannose-binding lectin in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection. J Infect Dis. 2005;191(10):1697-1704. doi:10.1086/429631

 
 
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 Are you thinking about what you eat?

Scientists and nutritionists widely understand that a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle contribute to a stronger immune system. We’re here to educate you on the research for why leeks and other fruits and vegetables should be a worthy addition to your diet.

“Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food.”
- Hippocrates