Brain fog is one of the most common signs of long COVID-19
Since the beginning of the pandemic, brain fog has been a common sign of infection. Even after the recovery from the initial infection, this symptom of COVID-19 keeps bothering people for months. Brain fog in itself is not a medical condition but is used to describe a range of symptoms including lack of concentration, confusion and fuzzy thoughts. All of these can affect one's day to day function and may make them feel irritated.
Long term effects of brain fog
Experts believe that although the problem of brain fog gets better with time, in the case of coronavirus infection it may have a grave effect on brain health. In a report published in a UK based tabloid, Professor Goodwin pointed out emerging research that suggests that the virus causes damage to the mitochondria in the brain cells. It is well known that coronavirus can travel to any part of the body, leading to a range of physical symptoms. Similarly, it enters the brain through the impermeable blood-brain barrier and may damage the healthy brain cells. The virus spike locks onto the vessels, replicates inside its cells and then passes through into the brain.
How to promote the growth of healthy brain cells
The damage caused by the virus in the brain cells may even affect the immune system and increase the risk of severe infection. Professor Goodwin suggests eating nutritious foods that support healthy brain cells. Foods packed with nutrients can help in the quick regeneration of the brain cells, particularly the ones rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, fish, walnuts, tofu, shellfish, canola oil, navy beans, brussels sprouts, and avocados are some excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Apart from this, foods rich in alpha-lipoic acid, L-carnitine and creatine can also be beneficial to improve brain health. These nutrients can be easily found in poultry, eggs, nuts, beans, seeds and spinach.
Other health conditions that can be triggered by brain cells damage
The professor also revealed that coronavirus that enters the brain cells can also lead to a rise in the sugar level felt in the neurons. That happens because the mitochondria of the neutrons rapidly change shape and structure, leading to profound overall metabolic changes. It eventually can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, a disease reported in many people after recovering from coronavirus. To avoid this, the professor recommends reducing the consumption of refined carbs and sugar.
Read more: Coronavirus infection: Omicron variant likely to cause upper airways infection in kids, finds study
Other ways to treat brain fog
It is clear that the inflammation around the brain caused by the virus leads to brain fog, but there are also some indirect factors that may contribute to this condition as well. Some are:
Poor sleep quality
Depression
Increased stress or anxiety
Dietary changes
Low physical activity
Side effects of certain medications
So, when you are witnessing the symptoms of brain fog, try to consider all these factors and tweak your daily routine accordingly. Adopting healthy habits may help to boost your mental function.
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