The “Cellular Wildfire” Fueling Long-COVID Revealed

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted January 24, 2025

A significant number of folks continue to feel unwell after supposedly “recovering” from COVID-19.

I have some exciting news if you’re one of the millions battling long-COVID.

Scientists from the University of Queensland just uncovered a crucial piece of the puzzle—and all signs point to inflammation as the culprit.

Let me explain…

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This groundbreaking research uncovered elevated levels of inflammatory proteins called cytokines in long-COVID patients’ blood, even 18 months after clearing the infection.

These proteins usually help control inflammation, but in these cases, they are stuck in overdrive.

The good news is that nature has provided us with powerful tools to help tame this inflammatory fire…

A modest amount of inflammation is good—it heals injuries and fights off infections. But when inflammation rises too high or stays around too long, it damages healthy tissues, especially around your heart.

This new research also explains why so many long-COVID patients experience ongoing cardiovascular issues. But it also points us toward natural solutions that could help douse these inflammatory flames.

Following are the top science-backed ways to naturally lower inflammation in your body…

• Foods: Certain foods act as natural inflammation suppressors. Dark leafy greens, fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), and colorful berries don’t just taste good… they actively combat inflammation at the cellular level.
• Spice It Up: Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon aren’t just flavor enhancers. Studies show they can lower inflammatory markers in your blood. Add a teaspoon of turmeric to your morning smoothie, or sprinkle cinnamon on your oatmeal.
• Time Your Eating: Research from the University of California suggests intermittent fasting can significantly reduce inflammatory markers. Simply limiting eating to a 10–12-hour window can help.
• Move Mindfully: Intense exercise can temporarily increase inflammation, but moderate activities like walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can help reduce it. Aim for 30 minutes of movement daily that leaves you feeling energized, not exhausted.
• Sleep: Your body repairs itself and reduces inflammation during sleep. Create a consistent bedtime routine and aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality rest each night.
• Stress: Chronic stress feeds inflammation. Deep breathing, meditation, or even a quiet walk in nature can lower the stress hormones that fuel inflammation.

The researchers also confirmed that omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds) were particularly effective at helping regulate cytokine levels.

Whether battling long-COVID or just optimizing your health, managing inflammation naturally could be the key to feeling your best.

And another thing…

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Source:

Jane E. Sinclair, Courtney Vedelago, Feargal J. Ryan, Meagan Carney, et al., Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 cardiovascular symptoms are associated with trace-level cytokines that affect cardiomyocyte function. Nature Microbiology, 2024; DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01838-z