Your Brain After Covid-19 – Understanding Cognitive Impacts and Recovery Strategies

Dr. Leo Galland explores the neurological consequences of Covid-19, focusing on its impact on cognition, brain structure, and long-term function. He presents findings from multiple studies and offers evidence-based strategies for enhancing brain recovery post-Covid.

Cognitive Impact of Covid-19: Key Research Findings

Scientists are increasingly concerned about the long-term effects of Covid-19 on brain function and cognition. Several major studies have provided insights into how Covid-19 affects the brain, even in mild cases:

• Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (2021)

  • A University of Texas study found persistent forgetfulness in Covid-19 survivors over 60, unrelated to the severity of acute infection.

  • A New York University (NYU) study detected Alzheimer’s-related blood markers in hospitalized Covid-19 patients over 60.

• UK Biobank MRI Study

  • Examined 40,000 people who had pre-pandemic brain MRIs. Half of them later contracted Covid-19.

  • Follow-up brain scans showed gray matter loss in regions associated with spatial memory and decision-making, even in mild cases.

• UK Cognitive Function Study

  • Assessed Covid-19 survivors (including those with mild illness) against closely matched controls.

  • Significant cognitive deficits were found, particularly in verbal problem-solving and selective attention, matching the areas of brain damage seen in MRI scans.

These findings suggest that Covid-19 can enter the brain through the nose, causing neuronal damage even in mild infections.

Historical Parallels: The 1918 Influenza Pandemic

Dr. Galland highlights an important historical precedent:

• The 1918 influenza pandemic was followed by neurological disorders, as documented in Oliver Sacks’ book Awakenings (later adapted into a film starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro).

• One such disorder, encephalitis lethargica (sleeping sickness), emerged 4 years after the pandemic ended, peaking in 1923.

• This suggests we may not have seen the full cognitive impact of Covid-19 yet.

How Mild Covid-19 Can Harm the Brain

Covid-19 impacts the brain differently than other organs:

• Low levels of inflammation in brain tissue, unlike the intense inflammation seen in the lungs or blood vessels.

• Few viral particles, yet significant neuronal loss due to apoptosis (programmed cell death) rather than direct viral attack.

The solution to this neuronal loss is stimulating brain regeneration via Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein essential for neuronal survival and connectivity.

Enhancing Brain Recovery Post-Covid

Dr. Galland presents scientifically supported strategies to boost BDNF and promote brain healing:

1. Diet & Gut Health

• The gut microbiome plays a critical role in brain function.

• Gut bacteria produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that stimulates BDNF production in the brain.

• A Western diet (high in sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats) impairs neuroplasticity.

Foods that promote butyrate production and BDNF:

• Vegetables & Whole Foods

• High-polyphenol foods (berries, green tea, turmeric)

• Omega-3 fats (fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds)

• Fermented foods (kimchi, yogurt, sauerkraut)

For those with gut issues post-Covid, Dr. Galland recommends:

• Prebiotics & Probiotics

• Direct butyrate supplementation (highly absorbable when taken orally).

2. Exercise & Brain Regeneration

• Aerobic exercise significantly increases BDNF levels.

• Swimming is especially effective.

• If suffering from Long Covid fatigue, start with low-impact movement and gradually increase intensity.

3. Key Supplements to Boost BDNF & Brain Recovery

SupplementDoseEffectCurcumin (from Turmeric)500-1,000 mg/dayIncreases BDNF, protects against stress-induced brain damagePhizetin (from Strawberries)100 mg/dayEnhances neuroplasticity, reduces brain inflammationLuteolin (from Celery & Green Peppers)45-150 mg/dayAnti-inflammatory, supports brain functionResveratrol (from Red Grapes & Berries)75-1,000 mg/dayImproves memory, cognitive function, and blood flow to the brainOmega-3 (EPA & DHA)3,000 mg/daySupports neurogenesis, brain cell growthAlpha Lipoic Acid600 mg/dayNeuroprotective, slows cognitive declineNiacin (Vitamin B3, NMN/Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)250-500 mg/dayBoosts mitochondrial function & brain energyWhole Coffee Fruit Extract100 mg/dayIncreases plasma BDNF by 143%

How Long Does the Brain Take to Recover from Covid?

• Without intervention, brain fog, memory loss, and cognitive deficits can last a year or more post-infection.

• Historical data from the 1918 flu suggests that longer-term effects may still emerge.

• With targeted lifestyle changes and supplementation, recovery can be accelerated.

Final Takeaways: Steps to Restore Brain Health Post-Covid

1. Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet

   • Whole foods, vegetables, omega-3s, and polyphenol-rich foods

   • Support gut health with prebiotics, probiotics, and butyrate supplements

2. Exercise Regularly

   • Swimming and aerobic exercise are most effective

   • Adjust based on energy levels to avoid crashes

3. Incorporate Key Supplements

   • Curcumin, Resveratrol, Phizetin, Omega-3s, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Niacin

4. Monitor Cognitive Health & Adapt

   • Track symptoms and adjust diet, exercise, and supplements as needed

Dr. Galland emphasizes that Covid-19’s impact on brain health is significant, but proactive steps can improve recovery and long-term cognitive function.

For more information, visit Dr. Galland’s website and explore his comprehensive Coronavirus Guidebook on brain and gut recovery.