And why it is relevant not only for people with symptoms   

A recent preprint from researchers, supported by the PolyBio Research Foundation, adds to growing evidence that SARS-CoV-2 may persist in the gut tissue of some people living with Long COVID*. By analyzing intestinal biopsies, researchers found persistent spike protein alongside signs of ongoing immune disruption in the surrounding tissue. These findings suggest that, for some individuals, lingering viral material may continue to influence the immune system long after the initial infection, helping explain why recovery can be so complex and why no single biological mechanism is likely to tell the whole story. 

The Takeaway? 

In the near term, while researchers continue to investigate treatments for viral persistence, there are meaningful steps we can take to support the body's interconnected systems. Strengthening gut health, nervous system function, and overall resilience can help the immune system work more effectively while improving how the body functions as a whole. 

As treatments for viral persistence continue to advance, part of recovery is still likely to depend on restoring how the body's interconnected systems function. Healing isn't only about addressing what's driving illness - it also means supporting the nervous system, rebuilding resilience, and helping the immune, vestibular, and digestive systems recover.  

These are steps that can benefit us all, we don’t need to wait until our system sends us signals of distress via symptoms. Supporting improved body functions is especially important when the body has been under prolonged stress and needs the opportunity to repair, adapt, and thrive. 

You can take action to support your gut health and help reduce inflammation with Recovery Kitchen - Essentials. This book is easy to follow - we’ve combined delicious recipes with practical, evidence-based guidance to help you build lasting habits that support healing and resilience. 

Warmly,
Katie & Andrea

PS: Every new study helps us better understand why Long COVID can affect so many different parts of the body. While researchers continue to investigate treatments for viral persistence, there are meaningful ways to support healing today. By focusing on nervous system regulation, gut health, resilience, and restoring healthy body-system function, we can help create the conditions for recovery–one step at a time.

*Source: Marcelo Freire, Salim Abraham Soria, Patrick Peterson et al. Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Spike is Associated with Localized Immune Dysregulation in Long COVID Gut Biopsies, 09 April 2026, PREPRINT (Version 1) available at Research Square https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9284759/v1

ThriveNinety Resources and Programs:
Recovery Kitchen 
Pacing Essentials 
Long COVID Symptom Management