Women who have recovered from Covid are more likely to experience brain fog than men, according to a new study highlighting the complex interplay between mood, gut health, and cognitive symptoms. The findings, published in the journal Medicina, suggest that managing digestive issues and emotional well-being may be more effective in reducing brain fog than focusing solely on diet or sleep.
Researchers in Türkiye surveyed over 300 adults to investigate the causes of brain fog, a cognitive condition marked by forgetfulness, poor focus, and mental fatigue. Participants completed questionnaires on diet, mood, sleep, and gastrointestinal symptoms, with particular attention to their experience of Covid. The data revealed that brain fog symptoms were significantly more common in individuals who had previously contracted the virus, especially those who had been reinfected.
The study identified three main factors linked to heightened brain fog: gastrointestinal distress, low mood, and a heightened state of emotional arousal. Women scored higher on both the Brain Fog Scale and Brain Fog Severity Score than men, supporting previous research that shows females are more likely to suffer lingering cognitive effects after Covid. Although sleep quality and age were considered, they were not significant predictors in the final model.
The researchers also examined whether the MIND diet – a food plan designed to support cognitive health – could influence brain fog symptoms. Despite the diet’s emphasis on antioxidant-rich foods, there was no significant relationship between MIND diet scores and reduced brain fog. This contradicts earlier assumptions that nutrition alone could play a key role in managing post-Covid cognitive challenges.
Notably, participants who had experienced gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or indigestion were more likely to report severe brain fog. This finding supports growing evidence on the role of the gut–brain axis, the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal system and the brain. It suggests that disruptions in digestive health caused by inflammation or immune responses may trigger cognitive issues long after the initial infection.
Mood also emerged as a critical factor. Those with lower scores on pleasantness and calmness were more likely to report cognitive complaints. Researchers argue this may be due to the heightened stress, anxiety, or depressive symptoms that have been widely documented in long Covid cases.
While the findings underline the importance of a holistic approach, the authors caution that the study has limitations. The data were collected online through self-reported questionnaires, which may introduce bias. In addition, the cross-sectional design means it cannot prove causation.
Still, the results could have implications for how brain fog is treated in clinical settings. Rather than prioritising sleep or nutritional interventions alone, the study suggests targeting mood and gut health may offer a more effective strategy. Women in particular may benefit from gender-specific approaches, given their elevated risk profile.
