Covid-19 and the Brain: Understanding Cognitive Impact and Recovery Strategies – An Interview with Dr. Leo Galland

Dr. Leo Galland, a leading expert in functional and integrative medicine, discusses the neurological effects of Covid-19 and the long-term cognitive consequences experienced by many survivors. As a member of the Long Covid Foundation's Board of Medical Advisors, Dr. Galland shares insights into how Covid-19 affects brain function and offers scientifically-backed strategies for recovery.

Key Findings: How Covid-19 Affects the Brain

1. Cognitive Decline in Covid-19 Survivors

• Many Covid-19 survivors report brain fog, memory loss, and cognitive dysfunction, making it difficult to perform tasks they previously handled with ease.

• Studies from the UK, US, and worldwide confirm that Covid-19 can cause persistent neurological symptoms, even in mild and moderate cases.

• Some survivors experience symptoms resembling early dementia or Parkinson’s disease.

2. The Risk of Long-Term Brain Damage

• Research from the University of Texas and NYU found that Covid-19 can cause memory loss and cognitive impairment, unrelated to the severity of the initial infection.

• The UK Biobank Study analyzed brain scans from 40,000 individuals taken before the pandemic. Hundreds of them underwent follow-up MRIs after having Covid-19.

  • Those who had recovered from Covid-19 showed significant gray matter loss in regions associated with memory, problem-solving, and spatial awareness.

  • These changes were observed even in those who had mild Covid-19 and were never hospitalized.

3. How Covid-19 Enters the Brain

• The olfactory nerves (responsible for smell) provide a direct pathway for the virus to reach the brain.

• Many individuals who experience loss of smell and taste during Covid-19 later suffer from cognitive deficits.

• Covid-19 also impacts the brain’s blood vessels, increasing the risk of inflammation, microclots, and oxygen deprivation, which contribute to neurological damage.

4. Historical Parallels: The 1918 Influenza Pandemic

• After the 1918 flu pandemic, a wave of neurological disorders emerged, including encephalitis lethargica (sleeping sickness).

• The peak of post-flu brain disorders occurred four years after the pandemic ended, raising concerns that we may still be in the early stages of seeing the full impact of Covid-19 on brain health.

Can Brain Damage from Covid-19 Be Reversed?

Yes, Recovery is Possible

• Dr. Galland emphasizes that brain function can be restored with targeted interventions.

• The key to recovery lies in stimulating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)—a protein that supports neuron survival, connectivity, and brain plasticity.

• Addressing gut health, inflammation, and neuroplasticity is essential for long-term brain recovery.

Strategies to Restore Brain Function After Covid-19

1. Optimize Gut Health

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

• Butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria, boosts BDNF and reduces brain inflammation.

• Covid-19 disrupts gut bacteria, decreasing butyrate production, which may contribute to brain fog and cognitive decline.

✅ Ways to Support Gut Health:

• Eat a high-fiber diet (vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes)

• Consume fermented foods (yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha)

• Take prebiotics & probiotics to rebuild gut bacteria

• Consider butyrate supplements to support gut-brain connection

2. Engage in Brain-Boosting Exercise

• Exercise significantly increases BDNF levels, promoting neuroplasticity and brain repair.

• Swimming is particularly effective for stimulating BDNF while reducing inflammation.

• If experiencing long Covid fatigue, start with low-impact movement and increase gradually.

3. Targeted Supplements for Brain Recovery

SupplementRecommended DoseKey BenefitsCurcumin (from Turmeric)500-1,000 mg/dayIncreases BDNF, protects brain cells from inflammationPhizetin (from Strawberries)100 mg/daySupports memory, neuroplasticity, and cognitive functionLuteolin (from Celery & Green Peppers)45-150 mg/dayReduces brain inflammation, supports oxygen deliveryResveratrol (from Red Grapes & Berries)75-1,000 mg/dayImproves memory, cognitive processing, and blood flow to the brainOmega-3 (EPA & DHA)3,000 mg/daySupports neurogenesis and brain cell growthAlpha Lipoic Acid600 mg/dayAntioxidant, slows cognitive declineNiacin (Vitamin B3, NMN/Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)250-500 mg/dayBoosts brain energy and BDNF productionWhole Coffee Fruit Extract100 mg/dayIncreases BDNF by 143%, improving cognitive function

4. Improve Brain Oxygenation & Blood Flow

• Covid-19 affects brain circulation, leading to oxygen deprivation and microclots.

• Enhancing blood flow reduces cognitive impairment and supports brain healing.

✅ Ways to Improve Brain Oxygenation:

• Exercise regularly (if tolerated)

• Consume omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA)

• Try resveratrol, luteolin, and antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid

5. Address Chronic Inflammation

• Low-grade inflammation persists in many Long Covid cases, suppressing BDNF and slowing brain recovery.

• A whole-foods diet rich in anti-inflammatory compounds is crucial.

✅ Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods:

• Turmeric (curcumin)

• Berries (high in flavonoids)

• Leafy greens & cruciferous vegetables

• Olive oil & nuts (healthy fats)

• Green tea (rich in polyphenols)

The Role of Antidepressants in Long Covid

• Some general practitioners prescribe antidepressants as the first-line treatment for cognitive issues and anxiety in Long Covid patients.

• Dr. Galland believes that lifestyle and diet should be the foundation of treatment, with medications only used on an individual basis.

• Supplements like curcumin, resveratrol, and omega-3s may improve brain function without the side effects of antidepressants.

Final Takeaways: How to Support Brain Recovery Post-Covid

✅ Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet

• High-fiber, anti-inflammatory foods

• Omega-3-rich sources like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds

• Fermented foods for gut health

✅ Incorporate Exercise (if possible)

• Swimming and low-impact movement are best for stimulating BDNF

✅ Use Targeted Supplements

• Curcumin, resveratrol, omega-3s, phizetin, luteolin

✅ Improve Blood Flow & Oxygenation

• Regular activity, hydration, and flavonoid-rich foods

✅ Monitor Symptoms & Adjust Treatment

• Track progress and consult health professionals for personalized care

Looking Ahead

• More research is needed to fully understand Covid-19’s long-term impact on the brain.

• However, proactive interventions can significantly improve cognitive function and quality of life.

For more resources on brain recovery after Covid-19, visit the Long Covid Foundation and Dr. Galland’s website.