As cold and flu season approaches, individuals are exposed to various viruses, including COVID-19. Our immune systems work daily to protect us from illness. However, when the immune system becomes overloaded or weakened, an unwanted virus can make us sick. Many of us remember how severely COVID-19 affected people worldwide. While most recovered without complications and gained protective antibodies for future exposure, some experienced lingering symptoms for months. This condition is known as Long Covid, Long Haul Covid, or Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

Long Covid affects more than 65 million people worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms that persist for months or longer after the acute infection. Long Covid presents with a variety of symptoms due to the spike protein, leading to a chronic inflammatory response. These symptoms include, but are not limited to, chronic fatigue, pulmonary issues, and mast cell activation. Neither the severity of the initial infection nor vaccination status predicts the likelihood of developing Long Covid. It does not discriminate based on age.

Symptoms include:

• Respiratory: Cough and shortness of breath.

• Neurological: Brain fog, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, tinnitus, and depression.

• Musculoskeletal: Fatigue, weakness, joint pain, difficulty exercising, and performing daily activities.

• Cardiovascular: Palpitations, tachycardia, and hypotension.

• Other symptoms: Rashes, itching, runny nose, burning, and itchy eyes.

Effects on the Body

Long Covid causes immune dysregulation, so treatment focuses on restoring immune function. It also disrupts mitochondrial function at a cellular level, impacting energy production and overall cellular health. Additionally, Long Covid negatively affects gut health and the microbiome.

Treatment and Recovery

It is crucial to work with a functional medicine practitioner experienced in managing this complex condition. We recommend that patients refer to I-Recover: Long Covid Treatment from the Independent Medical Alliance (IMAHealth.org). Additional resources can be found at the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM.org/infections).

Treatment should be personalized based on a comprehensive evaluation, including lab tests for inflammation markers, glucose levels, hemoglobin A1C, autoantibodies (ANA), and vitamin D levels. It is not uncommon for viruses such as Epstein-Barr and Herpes to reactivate in individuals with COVID-19 or Long Covid.

Potential Treatment Options

• Ivermectin

• Low-dose naltrexone

• Low-dose Methylene Blue

• Nattokinase

• Magnesium

• Vitamin D and K

• Resveratrol

• Probiotics and prebiotics

Additional supplements and lifestyle modifications may be recommended based on individual symptoms.

At D-Signed Nutrition, we emphasize an anti-inflammatory diet and targeted supplements to reduce inflammation and address mast cell activation if needed. If you suspect you have Long Covid, the IMA advises against additional COVID-19 booster vaccinations. Seeking treatment from a functionally trained medical practitioner as soon as possible can improve your quality of life.

Dee Harris is a registered, licensed dietitian-nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, and an Institute of Functional Medicine practitioner. D-Signed Nutrition is located at 3531 Bonita Bay Blvd., Ste. 300, in Bonita Springs. Call 239-676-5249 or visit D-SignedNutrition.com.

D-Signed Nutrition, LLC - 3531 Bonita Bay Blvd, Ste 300, Bonita Springs, FL

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