A comprehensive assessment with Rachel Jessey, an experienced nutritionist with a special interest in Long COVID.
Following extensive research on the gut microbiome since the beginning of the pandemic Rachel has observed that there is a microbiome phenotype in people experiencing long covid.
People with long COVID are at risk of nutrient depletion due to chronic inflammation, gastrointestinal issues, and increased energy demands. Persistent inflammation raises the need for antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium, while gastrointestinal symptoms reduce nutrient absorption. Fatigue and muscle weakness can lead to protein and amino acid depletion. Long COVID also keeps the immune system on high alert, quickly depleting nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc. Mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, can impact appetite, leading to lower nutrient intake, while certain medications may interfere with nutrient absorption or increase the body’s needs. Ensuring a balanced diet and supplementing as needed can help mitigate these risks.
Circadian biology, which controls the body’s internal 24-hour rhythms, is emerging as a valuable tool in managing long COVID by supporting immune resilience, restorative sleep, hormonal balance, and efficient energy use. By aligning daily routines with natural circadian rhythms, people with long COVID can help reduce inflammation, which is central to alleviating many chronic symptoms. The circadian clock directs immune cells, times inflammation, and regulates processes like tissue repair, making it critical for enhancing immune resilience and potentially reducing the heightened immune response seen in long COVID.
Maintaining stable circadian patterns also promotes better sleep quality, which is key to reducing persistent fatigue and supporting mental well-being. Circadian-aligned sleep helps the body produce melatonin and growth hormones that are vital for recovery. Further, regular sleep, meal, and activity schedules help to balance hormones like cortisol, supporting sustained energy and a healthy stress response, which are often disrupted in long COVID. Finally, circadian rhythms play a role in metabolism by regulating when the body best digests and absorbs nutrients, an advantage for those managing long COVID-related energy and digestive issues.
Please note: Variations to the Steps can be accommodated depending on individual circumstances.
For more information here is Dr Kane and Rachel’s Livestream discussion.
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