Research has shown that proteins lingering up to a year after a COVID-19 infection are linked to low cortisol levels, which can result in long-term neuroinflammation.
The impact on cortisol levels may explain many of the symptoms associated with long COVID, including neurological and neuropsychological issues such as brain fog, anxiety, sleep disturbances, fatigue, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Lingering Proteins and Low Cortisol
Previous experiments mentioned in the study include:
- SARS-CoV-2 sheds antigens known as spike proteins (S and S1).
- These proteins, which are immune-stimulating agents, can persist in the plasma and various organs of long COVID patients long after the infection.
- Elevated plasma levels of S and S1 are associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Based on these findings, researchers hypothesized that spike proteins may have physiological effects that prolong or intensify the neuroinflammatory response to future stressors. To investigate the impact of these proteins on the brain and nervous system, S1 was injected into the spinal fluid of rats.
Frank explained that the prolonged decrease in corticosterone levels in rats has significant health implications due to the various functions of cortisol, such as inflammation reduction, blood pressure regulation, energy conversion, immune system regulation, and sleep-wake cycle control.
Low Cortisol and Long COVID Symptoms
Another part of the study involved examining the effects of low cortisol on health. Rats exposed to a stressor in the form of weakened bacteria exhibited a heightened response if they had previously been injected with the S1 protein, leading to increased neuroinflammation and changes in behavior, heart rate, body temperature, and eating habits.
Further research is needed to fully comprehend the study’s findings, but the study suggests that the following occurs in long COVID:
- COVID proteins trigger processes that lower cortisol levels, resulting in heightened inflammatory responses to stress.
- When faced with stressors, individuals may experience an exaggerated inflammatory reaction, leading to neurological and neuropsychological symptoms.
- This can manifest as insomnia, depression, brain fog, fatigue, and memory issues.
Cortisol and Post-Viral Conditions
Managing Low Cortisol
Teitelbaum suggested that addressing low cortisol is crucial in managing long COVID. He recommended the following strategies to enhance adrenal function:
HRG 80 Red Ginseng Chewable Tablets
HRG 80 red ginseng serves as an adrenal adaptogen, enhancing resistance to various biological and physical factors. Studies have shown its effectiveness in improving energy levels in individuals with post-viral conditions.
Increased Salt and Water Intake, Reduced Sugar Consumption
These dietary adjustments can alleviate strain on the adrenal glands, which play a role in salt and water balance.
Supplements
Certain supplements can provide additional support for adrenal health.
Ivermectin
Teitelbaum and other researchers have observed improvements in individuals with long COVID, including vaccine-induced cases, following treatment with ivermectin. This regimen may need to be repeated to maintain benefits.
