Orthomolecular strategies for chronic fatigue and long COVID

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of long COVID – according to the RKI, up to 41% of adults suffer from long-term health consequences after contracting COVID-19, with persistent fatigue in particular being reported very frequently.

However, even without a viral infection, many people are familiar with the feeling of constant lack of energy and drive, for example in the context of burnout or chronic stress. This is where orthomolecular medicine comes in: it aims to optimally supply your body with micronutrients and vital substances in order to regain energy and quality of life.

In this article you will learn how orthomolecular strategies – from precise laboratory diagnostics to infusion therapy and holistic nutritional advice – can help you with chronic fatigue and Long COVID.

 

Chronic fatigue and long COVID – when the body is running on fumes

Everyone feels tired from time to time. However, chronic fatigue (fatigue syndrome) goes far beyond normal tiredness: even after sufficient sleep, you feel “drained” and even small everyday tasks become an insurmountable obstacle. With Long COVID, additional complaints often occur: breathing problems, poor concentration (“brain fog”), muscle pain and a generally weak immune system. This post-infectious fatigue is not a new phenomenon – we already know about persistent fatigue after other viral infections such as Pfeiffer’s glandular fever (EBV). But what makes Long COVID and similar conditions such as burnout so stressful?

Medical experts suspect several causes. Firstly, persistent inflammatory reactions after the acute infection can play a role. Your immune system continues to run at full speed, so to speak, which is exhausting in the long run. On the other hand, changes in metabolism and hormone balance are observed: cells have difficulty extracting enough energy from nutrients. Last but not least, the focus is on the health of the mitochondria – these are the “power plants” of your cells. Evidence is mounting that Long COVID is partly a mitochondrial disease: Damaged mitochondria can produce less ATP (energy), which directly leads to energy deficiency and fatigue. Interestingly, these factors are similar to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and also to what is seen in burnout patients (permanently increased stress). Chronic stress, in turn, causes the cortisol level to drop and weakens stress resistance – you feel more tired, your circulation goes haywire, and the exhaustion is further intensified.

Orthodox medicine often finds it difficult to offer quick solutions for these complex conditions. A holistic approach can help here: if you look at the entire body and its supply, starting points often become apparent. Many sufferers have micronutrient deficiencies – partly due to the infection itself (the body has used up reserves), partly due to the stresses afterwards (stress, inflammation and healing processes increase the need).

Orthomolecular medicine picks up exactly here. Its basic idea: With the right selection of vital substances (vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, etc.) in optimal dosages, biochemical processes can be supported, healing can be promoted and energy production can be boosted again. In other words, you give the body exactly the molecules it needs for smooth functioning – in sufficient quantity and quality.

 

Orthomolecular medicine: vital substances as the key to new energy

The term orthomolecular means “the right molecules”: It refers to the use of the body’s own natural substances (vitamins, minerals, nutrients) to maintain or restore health. Founder Linus Pauling assumed that many diseases are caused by an imbalance of vital substances and that high, therapeutic doses of these substances can compensate for deficits and thus improve health. Especially with unspecific, diffuse complaints such as chronic fatigue, it is worth taking a look at your vital substance supply.

Why are micronutrients so important? Vitamins and minerals control countless processes: They are cofactors for energy production in the mitochondria, strengthen the immune system, repair cells and regulate hormones and nerve functions. If certain micronutrients are missing, these processes stall – tiredness, susceptibility to infection, concentration problems and mood swings can be the result. With Long COVID and after severe infections, the nutrient balance is often completely “depleted”.

A laboratory diagnosis of the micronutrient status is therefore useful to see where your body needs replenishment. Deficiencies are also often seen in burnout and chronic stress, because under constant stress the body consumes significantly more B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, zinc and selenium – all these substances are “used up” more quickly in stressful times and must be supplied in increased amounts to prevent a deficiency.

 

Holistic diagnostics at VenaZiel: 3D body analysis and laboratory diagnostics

Before starting nutrient therapy, VenaZiel conducts a thorough assessment of your health. Because the more precisely the causes of exhaustion are known, the more specifically it can be treated. Our state-of-the-art 3D body analysis (a computer-aided 3D scan of your body) enables a comprehensive check-up: From body composition (muscle vs. fat percentage) to posture analysis and metabolic parameters, this scan provides valuable data about your general state of health.

Perhaps you are wondering what your body shape has to do with Long COVID or fatigue? It’s simple: Chronic fatigue is often associated with muscle loss and changes in metabolism. A 3D body analysis can make such changes visible and serves as an objective starting point for recording progress during the course of therapy.

At the same time, we carry out extensive laboratory diagnostics. Here, blood values that are relevant for chronic fatigue are specifically examined: Vitamin levels (e.g. vitamin D, B12, folic acid), mineral and trace element status (such as iron/ferritin, magnesium, zinc, selenium), inflammation markers, thyroid values, stress hormones (cortisol) and, if necessary, specific Long COVID markers (e.g. autoantibodies, if indicated). This precise laboratory diagnostics reveals possible micronutrient deficiencies and provides insights into your immune system and your metabolism. It often turns out that the vital substances mentioned above are actually in the basement. With these results, the VenaZiel team can create an individually tailored treatment plan that is exactly tailored to your needs.

Should it turn out that other factors play a role – for example, latent virus persistence, an unrecognized organ dysfunction or hormonal imbalances – these will also be taken into account in our holistic diagnostics. The aim is to get as holistic a picture of your health as possible. This is how we make sure not to overlook anything that contributes to your exhaustion.

 

Infusion therapy: high doses of vital substances directly into the system

A special offer from VenaZiel is orthomolecular infusion therapy. You will receive individually compiled infusions with vital substances that your body urgently needs. Why infusions? The advantage of infusion therapy lies in the direct effect: The nutrients enter the bloodstream directly, bypassing the digestive tract. This allows much higher effective levels to be achieved in the body than would be possible with oral intake (tablets or capsules). For example, vitamin C is only absorbed to a limited extent via the intestine – with infusions, on the other hand, even high-dose vitamin C doses can be administered, which has a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

In Long COVID and chronic fatigue, we use infusions to provide rapid support. Many patients report that they notice a noticeable improvement in their energy levels after a corresponding vital substance infusion – the so-called “energy push”. This is also plausible: A cocktail of, for example, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, magnesium and trace elements can literally “bathe” the cells in nutrients, so that bottlenecks are immediately eliminated. In addition, we avoid possible resorption problems: Some people with Long COVID have gastrointestinal problems or inflammation that make it difficult to absorb nutrients – infusions elegantly bypass this problem.

Typical infusion mixtures at VenaZiel are put together according to your laboratory results and complaints. Examples:

• Immune system boost: High dose of vitamin C, zinc, selenium, plus B vitamins to strengthen the body’s defenses and intercept free radicals. 
• Energy infusion: B-complex (for energy metabolism), magnesium (against muscle weakness and stress), carnitine and coenzyme Q10 (for the mitochondria) – ideal for symptoms of fatigue. 
• Regeneration infusion: amino acids (e.g. arginine to promote blood circulation and taurine for cell protection), combined with cell-protecting vitamins and possibly glutathione (a powerful antioxidant) for detox support.

All infusions are medically monitored and administered in our comfortable infusion area. You can sit back and relax while your body receives the vital substances. The dosages are individually tailored – we only administer what is necessary, in the right amount. Thanks to the previous laboratory diagnostics, we know whether, for example, there is really a severe vitamin D deficiency or whether certain values are already in the green range. This way we avoid overdoses and start where there are real deficits.

 

Individual micronutrient advice and nutrient therapy

Infusions are a strong initial impulse – but in the long term it is important to continuously supply your body well. That’s why VenaZiel offers comprehensive orthomolecular micronutrient advice. After evaluating all the findings, our experienced team – consisting of, among others, doctors, **nutritionists** and orthomolecularly trained therapists – will take time for you. Together we discuss which vital substances can help you in the short, medium and long term.

We will then create an individual nutrient plan. This can include the following elements:

• Targeted supplementation: We recommend high-quality nutritional supplements, exactly tailored to your needs. For example, this could mean: Vitamin D (if there is a deficiency), omega-3 fatty acids (to inhibit inflammation), a B-complex preparation for daily energy metabolism, magnesium in the evening to relax the muscles and promote sleep, etc.
  All recommendations are based on your laboratory values and scientific findings on Long COVID. For example, studies have shown that the administration of combination preparations of vitamin C, D, zinc, selenium, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, amino acids (such as L-arginine, L-carnitine) and antioxidants could significantly improve the fatigue and performance of Long COVID patients. Such findings are incorporated into our therapy concepts. 
• Nutritional advice: Orthomolecular does not only mean “swallowing pills”. A diet rich in vital substances is at least as important. Our experts will support you in changing your diet to fresh, micronutrient-rich food – feasible in everyday life and enjoyable. A Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruit, vegetables, healthy fatty acids (olive oil, fish), nuts and whole grains, has proven particularly effective.
  This not only provides vitamins and minerals, but also has an anti-inflammatory effect. We will show you practical tips on how to consume more antioxidants through your diet (keyword: “Eat the Rainbow” – a colorful selection of fruit and vegetables) and which foods are particularly good for exhaustion (e.g. nuts as a source of magnesium and B vitamins, green leafy vegetables for folic acid, protein-rich food for muscle building and immune function). A good diet creates the basis for dietary supplements to work optimally. 
• Lifestyle & Regeneration: The holistic concept also includes looking at other areas of life. We will be happy to advise you on moderate exercise – because dosed physical activity can get the mitochondria going again. The right balance is important here: neither total rest nor overexertion. Perhaps you start with short walks and slowly increase. We also support you with stress management recommendations.
  Chronic stress can perpetuate exhaustion, so relaxation techniques (breathing exercises, meditation, gentle yoga) are a valuable addition. If you have sleep problems, we can also advise you on this – sometimes vital substances such as magnesium or vitamin B6 in the evening can improve the quality of sleep, or natural helpers such as melatonin and valerian. We look at you holistically: body, mind and soul.

 

Mitochondrial medicine: optimizing energy production at cell level

We have already mentioned the mitochondria – our cell power plants – as a key factor. VenaZiel has special expertise in the field of mitochondrial medicine. This refers to therapies that specifically improve the function of the mitochondria. Why is this so important? If you suffer from chronic fatigue, it is very likely that your mitochondria are not working optimally. Studies with Long COVID patients and CFS patients often found lower levels of important mitochondrial nutrients such as coenzyme Q10 and NADH, as well as evidence of oxidative stress in the cells. A 12-week administration of 200 mg Q10 plus 20 mg NADH led to a significant reduction in mental and physical exhaustion as well as improved quality of life in CFS patients. We take advantage of such findings.

In practice, this means: We check whether you need mitochondrial micronutrients. These include in particular coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, B vitamins (especially niacin (B3), riboflavin (B2) and B12), magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid and certain amino acids. These substances are involved in ATP production or protect the mitochondria from damage. If they are missing, the “cell engine” does not run smoothly. As part of orthomolecular therapy, we ensure that your mitochondria get everything they need. This can be done orally (high-dose mitochondrial preparations) or by infusion (e.g. Q10 or carnitine as an infusion, if useful).

We also make sure to reduce oxidative and nitrosative stress – both of which put enormous strain on the mitochondria in Long COVID. This is where antioxidants come into play: Vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, alpha-lipoic acid, N-acetylcysteine (as a glutathione precursor) neutralize excess free radicals and nitrogen compounds that could otherwise damage the cell power plants. Anti-inflammatory vital substances also support your mitochondria. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, reduce silent inflammation; vitamin D and curcumin (from turmeric) have a similar anti-inflammatory effect. By reducing inflammation, we create an environment in which your mitochondria can recover and provide energy more efficiently again.

Another starting point of mitochondrial medicine at VenaZiel is the improvement of blood circulation and oxygen supply. Some Long COVID researchers suspect microcirculation disorders (smallest vascular problems) as a contributing cause of fatigue. L-arginine and L-citrulline can help here – amino acids that stimulate the formation of nitric oxide (NO) and thus widen the vessels. Better blood circulation means more oxygen and nutrients for every cell and therefore also for the mitochondria. If appropriate, we therefore integrate such circulation-promoting vital substances into your therapy concept.

 

Gut health and microbiome analysis: The role of the gut in fatigue

Did you know that the condition of your gut has a major impact on your energy levels and your immune system? In the context of Long COVID, it is becoming increasingly clear that a SARS-CoV-2 infection can also leave traces in the microbiome (the entirety of the intestinal bacteria). Many Long COVID patients report digestive problems, food intolerances or simply a “gut feeling” that is no longer right. In addition, the intestine carries an enormous burden of immune function – about 70% of the immune system is located in the intestine. A stressed, inflamed intestinal system can therefore both promote fatigue and hinder the absorption of nutrients.

VenaZiel therefore offers microbiome analyses to take a close look at your intestinal environment. With a stool sample, we can determine which good bacteria are missing or whether harmful germs are taking over. We also look for evidence of leaky gut (permeable intestinal barrier) or inflammatory markers in the intestine. This diagnostics provides starting points for a targeted therapy of your digestive system.

The orthomolecular strategy in this area includes the use of probiotics and prebiotics as well as specific micronutrients for intestinal health. Studies suggest that certain lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains) and soluble fiber (such as inulin) can balance the microbiome. Our therapists therefore recommend suitable probiotics to rebuild your intestinal flora. At the same time, we support the intestinal mucosa with vital substances: Vitamins A, D, B2, B3 and biotin are essential for healthy mucous membranes – they help the intestinal mucosa to regenerate. Zinc and L-glutamine (an amino acid that is the preferred food of the intestinal mucosal cells) are also often used here to strengthen the intestinal barrier.

Through this combination – improving the intestinal flora and nourishing the intestinal mucosa – we create an environment in the gastrointestinal tract that reduces inflammation and optimizes the absorption of nutrients. Many patients find that not only does their digestion improve, but that they also feel more energy overall as soon as the gut heals. No wonder: When food is properly utilized again and the immune system in the gut calms down, the energy gained is available to the rest of the body.

 

Your way back to new vitality – holistic care at VenaZiel

As you can see, all the pieces of the puzzle fit together at VenaZiel: State-of-the-art diagnostics (3D body analysis, laboratory and microbiome check) provide clarity about your state of health. Based on these results, we put together a tailor-made orthomolecular therapy concept for you – from infusion therapy to supplements and nutritional recommendations. This holistic therapy aims to address all relevant aspects of your chronic fatigue.

By compensating for deficiencies, alleviating inflammation, strengthening the mitochondria and balancing the gut, we activate your body’s self-healing powers. Step by step, you will feel the energy returning, the resilience increasing and also mental symptoms (brain fog, mood) improving. It is important to note that we provide close support. In regular progress checks (both in discussions and by means of follow-up lab tests or body analyses) we check the progress and adjust the therapy if necessary. After all, each person’s body reacts differently – what counts is your personal success.

 

Conclusion: Gaining new strength through orthomolecular medicine

You do not have to accept chronic fatigue and Long COVID. Take advantage of the opportunities offered by orthomolecular medicine to give your body exactly what it needs now.

Micronutrients are like the fuel and lubricating oil for your body – when the tank is full again, the engine can run smoothly again.

Studies, experience and scientific findings show that an optimal supply of vital substances can increase resilience, shorten recovery time and significantly alleviate symptoms such as fatigue. Especially in combination with a healthy lifestyle (diet, exercise, stress reduction), orthomolecular strategies unfold their full potential.

One final thought: Your way out of exhaustion is not a sign of weakness, but of courage and personal responsibility. You are taking your health into your own hands – and we at VenaZiel support you with all our know-how and our innovative offers. From the initial laboratory diagnostics to individual infusion therapy and long-term micronutrient advice, we are at your side.

Don’t wait any longer for the tiredness to disappear on its own. Take the first step towards new vitality! Contact us today at VenaZiel – your center for orthomolecular medicine and holistic therapy in Berlin.

Together we will develop your individual roadmap back to more energy, health and quality of life. Make your appointment now and let us tackle your exhaustion at the root together – for a life full of strength and well-being.