Written by Chantel – Resident Naturopath at Choice Pharmacy
Dealing with Long COVID
Most of us have had COVID and we all know it can be quite unpleasant. It’s not just COVID, it’s the effects people are experiencing afterwards, which can alter the quality of life. Long COVID, it’s a thing! In our last blog, we spoke about COVID and some tips on boosting immunity and assisting with symptoms. In this blog, we will be discussing what we can do after acute symptoms have passed and for those who are experiencing Long COVID.
We don’t know much about Long COVID or why it happens, but it has been experienced by a number of individuals. It is important at this time to make sure you are looking after yourself and getting adequate rest. If you keep pushing yourself, it will only prolong symptoms. So, listen to your body, it knows best! If you need an extra nap, go and take one.
Change in Lifestyle
Managing our energy is very important, there are a few things you can do to help:
- Plan rest periods throughout the day to minimise drops in your energy
- Reduce your activity: Sit or lie still with your eyes closed, so you are not engaging in activities or distractions around you
- Prioritise your tasks- what’s more important?
- If you need to delegate your tasks, don’t be afraid to
- Break tasks down into smaller ones
Change in Diet
- Eat a whole food diet: follow the Mediterranean diet; lots of fruits and vegetables, lean quality proteins, good fats and wholegrains. These foods will help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation
- Ensure you are getting enough protein. Protein forms the building blocks of all cells, including our immune cells, which we need to help us recover
- Avoid alcohol, sugar, processed foods and fried foods as these will cause a lot of inflammation and lower your immune system
- Increase your fluid intake: drink plenty of water, herbal teas, fresh juices, soups and broths. It’s important to get your intake up to keep you hydrated
7 Vitamins may help you to go through the Long COVID
1. Astragalus
Astragalus is an immune herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine. It helps to boost the immune system, aswell as support our body’s stress response. It is excellent for anyone who has fatigue after any sort of virus. It will help to boost immunity and give you energy. If you are busy, stressed, tired, prone to getting sick all the time, think Astragalus! Do not take it if you have acute symptoms of cold and flu, only once those symptoms have passed.
2. CoQ10
CoQ10 helps with energy production. It is highly concentrated within the mitochondria (the cells energy powerhouse). CoQ10 is excellent for those feeling tired and fatigued.
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating our immune system as we have a lot of Vitamin D receptors found on our immune cells. It is needed for the production of antibodies and white blood cells, which help us to fight off infection. When our Vitamin D levels are low, it can impact our immune system, leading to more colds and flu.
4. B Complex
Important for those who feel tired, stressed and fatigued. B vitamins support our nervous system. They provide us with energy and help with stress support.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for making energy within our cells. Long COVID can make you feel fatigued and tired, so magnesium can help support with the production of energy we need to get through the day.
6. Vitamin C
Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of a cold as it is needed to produce immune cells and helps to clear up infections. It works extremely well when taken with Zinc. If you are deficient in Zinc and Vitamin C, it can suppress your immunity.
7. Zinc
Zinc is needed for regulating inflammation, which is present in COVID. Deficiency in Zinc can lead to a weakened immunity as Zinc is needed for the functioning and development of immune cells. There is evidence to suggest that those who are deficient in Zinc can have higher rates of complications with COVID.
If you would like any more information about Long COVID recovery, come and have a chat with our in-store naturopath, or make an appointment for a free consultation.
You can book our naturopath for in-store consultation online or e-mail to naturopath@choicepharmacy.com.au to organise a zoom consultation.
