Fatigue, brain fog, heart palpitations and difficulty breathing.
These are just some of the most common symptoms of “Long Covid” that can affect people long-term after recovering from an infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
There is still much to learn about Long Covid. While eating the right foods isn’t a cure for long Covid, diet and nutrition could play a key role in helping those affected cope, experts tell CNBC Make It.
according to dr Greg Vanichkachorn, director of the Mayo Clinic’s Covid Activity Rehabilitation Program, says symptoms are only “half the picture”.
“The other half is how those symptoms affect a person’s ability to live their life. Unfortunately, the symptoms of long-distance COVID can be quite debilitating.”
Vanichkachorn added that more than a third of Mayo Clinic’s long-Covid patients struggle with some of life’s most basic activities, such as walking. B. Getting dressed, showering and eating.
“It’s just a bad movie that we still don’t have an end to,” said Dr. Joan Salge Blake, clinical professor of nutrition at Boston University.
Heart disease, certain types of cancer… You can fight all of these diseases with a knife and fork. It empowers you because you are in control of what’s on your plate and what you eat.
dr Joan Salge Blake
Clinical Professor, Boston University
Long Covid is essentially a post-infection condition that can last weeks, months or years – long after a person has tested negative for Covid-19. It can also be referred to as post-Covid conditions or chronic covid.
Experts speaking to CNBC Make It said there is still much to learn about Long Covid, but diet plays a crucial role.
“Heart disease, certain cancers, stroke and type 2 diabetes… You can fight all of these diseases with a knife and fork,” Blake said.
“It empowers you because you’re in control of what’s on your plate and what you eat.”
For those looking for ways to cope with Long Covid symptoms, CNBC Make It finds out what you should and shouldn’t be eating.
1. Mediterranean diet
Vanichkachorn and Blake both emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, which they believe will be beneficial for overall health — particularly a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, nuts and whole grains.
Fruits and vegetables, in particular, are “powerhouses” when it comes to essential vitamins and minerals, Blake said.
That doesn’t mean skipping meat or protein, though, Vanichkachorn said, adding that fish and chicken are good options.
A Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, nuts and whole grains.
Cristina Pedrazzini/Science Photo Library | Science Photo Library | Getty Images
Blake added: “Poor protein [intake] can contribute to fatigue and that’s the only thing you don’t want because Covid will give you fatigue…it sure won’t help if you don’t get enough protein in your diet.
Oily fish, like tuna and salmon, are good sources of omega-3 acids, which can improve cardiovascular health.
But ultimately, the focus should be on building a well-rounded “super diet,” rather than focusing on “superfoods,” Blake said. Superfoods are high in antioxidants, fiber and fatty acids that are beneficial to health.
“It’s a super diet that helps you fight chronic disease. When all the vitamins and minerals work together, that will be your best defense.”
2. Beware of vitamin deficiencies
Research hasn’t confirmed whether specific vitamins are helpful in fighting long Covid, but it’s still important to treat vitamin deficiencies, Vanichkachorn said.
“For example, a lack of vitamin B12 can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and trouble thinking,” he said.
Minerals like iron are also important. A recent study showed that patients with long Covid may have problems with how their bodies use and store iron.
Ekaterina Goncharova | moment | Getty Images
“Iron deficiency can cause many symptoms, including anemia and fatigue. A deficiency can have many causes, such as poor intake, but can also be associated with chronic diseases,” said Vanichkachorn.
However, he cautioned against using any vitamin or mineral supplements without first seeking medical advice.
“If you’re concerned about vitamin or mineral deficiencies, the first step is to talk to your doctor,” he said.
3. Stay hydrated
Vanichkachorn stressed that all long-distance Covid patients should stay hydrated.
“When people are suffering from acute Covid, they often rest and sleep for long periods of time. This throws off their nutrition, especially hydration,” he added.
“Left uncontrolled, dehydration can make everyone uncomfortable, not just patients suffering from long-distance COVID.”
If plain water is too boring, you can also add a piece of fruit such as lemon or lime to improve the taste.
DR Greg Vanichkachorn
Director of the Mayo Clinic’s Covid Activity Rehabilitation Program
Acknowledging that patients often need reminders to stay hydrated, Vanichkachorn encouraged those with long Covid to carry a bottle.
He added: “If plain water is too bland, you can also add a piece of fruit like lemon or lime to enhance the flavor. These simple changes can make staying hydrated so much easier.”
4. What to stay away from
As acute Covid can cause “very significant inflammation” in the body, Vanichkachorn said it’s good to stay away from anything that might make it worse.
“We have seen that some inflammatory markers … are elevated in this patient population [suffering from long Covid]. The inflammation is likely secondary to immune system abnormalities, perhaps even autoimmune diseases,” he added.
Acute Covid can cause significant inflammation in the body, and it’s a good idea to stay away from sugary drinks and desserts, Vanichkachorn said.
Elizabeth Perez Holowaty | moment | Getty Images
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