Amino acids are essential components of proteins that play a major role in the body's immune response. They are important for a variety of bodily functions, including cell repair, muscle growth, and energy production. Amino acids have also been shown to have a positive effect on the symptoms of long covid and can help to reduce inflammation, fatigue, and joint pain.
Back in my "healthy days" I would work out quite often and I would take BCAAs (Amino Acids) to aid in my recovery. I stopped taking them when I came down sick with Long Covid. I mean I wasn't working out, so no need take this right? Well, I soon found out that in the depths of this illness I would be sore for a week after simple tasks like carrying groceries up the stairs. I started taking Amino Acids and I noticed that the "soreness" from doing daily tasks with Long Covid was reduced substantially.
Amino Acids are gaining attention with their role in Treating Long Covid, supported by scientific evidence cited in a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). [1]
Immune System Support: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for various immune functions. The cited study from the NCBI suggests that specific amino acids, such as glutamine, arginine, and cysteine, play vital roles in supporting immune function and promoting recovery. These amino acids contribute to the production of immune cells, antibodies, and cytokines, aiding in the body's defense against infections, including long COVID.
Protein Synthesis and Tissue Repair: Long COVID can cause muscle wasting and contribute to fatigue and weakness. Amino acids are crucial for protein synthesis, which is essential for tissue repair and regeneration. The study cited from the NCBI indicates that adequate amino acid availability is vital for muscle recovery and maintenance of lean body mass. By providing the necessary building blocks for protein synthesis, amino acids can aid in restoring muscle function and promoting overall recovery.
Antioxidant Defense: Oxidative stress is a hallmark of long COVID and can lead to cellular damage. Certain amino acids, such as cysteine, methionine, and glycine, contribute to the synthesis of antioxidants like glutathione. The cited study highlights the role of amino acids in maintaining cellular redox balance and reducing oxidative stress. By supporting the antioxidant defense system, amino acids can mitigate oxidative damage and promote recovery in long COVID.
Energy Production and Mitochondrial Health: Long COVID often leads to fatigue and reduced energy levels. Amino acids, such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and glutamine, are essential for energy production and mitochondrial function. The study cited from the NCBI suggests that supplementing with BCAAs and glutamine may enhance energy metabolism, improve exercise tolerance, and alleviate fatigue. By supporting mitochondrial health and energy production, amino acids can aid in restoring energy levels in long COVID.
Neurological Support: Long COVID can manifest with neurological symptoms, including brain fog and cognitive impairments. Amino acids, such as tryptophan and tyrosine, serve as precursors for neurotransmitters that are involved in cognitive function and mood regulation. The cited study suggests that optimizing amino acid availability may help mitigate cognitive symptoms and improve mental well-being in long COVID. By supporting neurotransmitter synthesis, amino acids may aid in cognitive recovery and emotional resilience.
Conclusion: Amino acids play essential roles in immune support, protein synthesis, antioxidant defense, energy production, and neurological function. With their versatile functions, amino acids offer a multifaceted approach to promoting recovery in long COVID. However, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating any new supplements or significantly altering your diet.
By harnessing the potential of amino acids, individuals with long COVID may find valuable support in enhancing immune function, promoting tissue repair, reducing oxidative stress, restoring energy levels, and supporting cognitive recovery on their path to healing.
[1] Study: "Role of dietary amino acids in COVID-19 infection and the possible synergistic effects of two protease inhibitors, bromelain and nattokinase," published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), accessed from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9212635/
Keywords: organic compounds, nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, building blocks of proteins, protein-rich foods, meat, fish, soybeans, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids, conditionally essential amino acids. ongoing health problems, rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, mental health support. Recovery from long COVID varies and can take weeks or months.