Fatigue and brain fog are a crippling duo, and both are very common symptoms of Long COVID. While there is no known cure for either, it may be possible to help symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.
Waking up and going to bed at the same time every day can reduce fatigue. Maintaining blood glucose levels by eating several small meals throughout the day, avoiding starchy and sweet foods can help as well. Carbohydrates with a low GI index are best for avoiding sugary carbs, which can leave you feeling fatigued after a sugar rush. These foods include beans, lentils, wholemeal pasta, brown rice, fruits, and vegetables.
There are many supplements that aid with fatigue, but we recommend consulting your doctor before adding them to your diet. These supplements include:
thiamine (B1)
riboflavin (B2)
niacin (B3)
pantothenic acid (B5)
vitamin B6
vitamin B12
biotin
vitamin C
calcium
copper
iodine
iron
magnesium
manganese
Phosphorus
A study from Oregon State University showed that those over 55 years of age who took a multivitamin and mineral supplement every day for 3 months fought off infections remarkably better than those taking a placebo. Those taking the supplements had less severe symptoms and recovered quicker than those who were not.
Vitamin B1, B3, B6, B12, folic acid, and magnesium are all important to normal psychological function. Omega 3 supplements may also be beneficial to take if you cannot have at least two portions of fish per week, one containing oily fish. Exercise and sleep can also affect brain fog because they are both necessary for memory function.
We are working here at Numinis to develop simple and easy to follow meal plans so you can have some guidance if you are interested in changing your eating habits, so create an account on our website to stay updated on our progress. We would really appreciate it if you could support us by signing our petition for the CDC to recognize Long COVID as a chronic illness and by donating to our GoFundMe so we can continue to develop the platform. Anything helps, even one dollar! Here are the links:
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/61151bbd
Petition: https://www.change.org/covidlonghaulers
Brewer, Sarah. “Long COVID: Diet and Lifestyle Changes That Can Help.” Healthspan, www.healthspan.co.uk/advice/long-covid-diet-and-lifestyle-changes-that-can-help.
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