Although research into the treatment of long COVID is ongoing, many of the symptoms can be managed with nutrients that strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
COVID-19 has sparked a global pandemic that has dramatically affected the way we live our lives over the last few years. In some cases, people experience a persistence of debilitating symptoms long after the acute infection. This manifests in at least one stubborn symptom persisting longer than three months from the onset of infection. Sufferers experience a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, cough, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and diarrhoea.
Highlighted in this article are three key nutrients that promise hope for the management of long COVID.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which maintain inflammation in the body. These cytokines are, in fact, a natural response to infection and injury. However, if they persist for too long this will worsen inflammation. Taking a vitamin D supplement helps maintain the natural balance and regulation of the immune system. Furthermore, studies suggest that vitamin D may be a beneficial aid for preventing acute lung injury because of its ability to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, this essential nutrient enhances cell repair, and protects the blood-air barrier. If you haven’t heard about this before, this barrier exists to prevent air bubbles from forming in the blood, and from blood entering the alveoli. Pretty Cool! So keep vitamin D in mind as part of your treatment of long COVID.
Quercetin
Quercetin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help stimulate the immune system and reduce swelling. This bioflavonoid has shown promise in the management and treatment of long COVID by slowing the synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Their prolonged activity is one of the problems we need to manage with viral infections like Covid-19.
Magnesium
Some symptoms of long COVID are very similar to low magnesium, which suggests that insufficient magnesium may partially contribute to, or exacerbate long COVID. So, it is reasonable to assume that a magnesium supplement would aid in recovery. Some research is showing that magnesium should be included in the management and treatment of long COVID.
What is long COVID?
Long COVID is the persistence of at least one debilitating symptom for at least two to three months. For a diagnosis to be made, it is important that symptoms cannot be explained by anything else.
What are the symptoms of long COVID?
There are a wide range of symptoms that have an impact on daily function. The most common of these, include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, changes to sense of taste and smell, and gut disturbance, such as, diarrhoea.
How does COVID-19 affect the body?
The Coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV-2 gains access to cells via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which is present in various cell types throughout the body. Due to the prevalence of this receptor the virus can cause widespread damage to areas like the lungs, heart, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, and brain.
Can Nutrition Therapy Aid Treatment?
Thankfully, there are natural remedies that aim to reduce the inflammatory response and aid in immune support that could be beneficial for the potential management or treatment of long COVID symptoms. We would recommend that you visit your health care professional to learn the best solution for you.
Our Naturopath, Michelle Rudge, is available for a consultation to answer your questions.
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DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH. Magnesium and Vitamin D Deficiency as a Potential Cause of Immune Dysfunction, Cytokine Storm and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in covid-19 patients. Mo Med. 2021;118(1):68-73.
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