Cedar Planked Salmon with Grilled Asparagus
Cedar Planked Salmon with Grilled Asparagus is indeed one of the best lunch options for anti-inflammatory support, gut health, and mitochondrial function in a post-COVID functional medicine recovery plan. Here’s why, based on the latest evidence:
Nutritional Benefits
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are among the most potent dietary anti-inflammatories. Omega-3s help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and support resolution of inflammation, a key need in post-COVID recovery, where chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation are common 6,5.
Asparagus contains vitamins C and E, polyphenols, and other antioxidants, all of which have anti-inflammatory effects and may help relieve inflammatory conditions 2.
Gut Health
Asparagus acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria, promoting microbiome diversity, and supporting regular digestion and gut lining repair 2. This is especially important for immune function and recovery from viral illness.
Salmon provides high-quality protein and anti-inflammatory fats, both of which support gut barrier integrity and reduce gut inflammation.
Mitochondrial Function
Salmon supplies essential nutrients for mitochondrial health, including omega-3s, B vitamins, and selenium. Omega-3s help maintain mitochondrial membrane integrity, while B vitamins (especially B12 and niacin) and selenium are crucial for mitochondrial energy production and antioxidant defense 6,4,5.
Asparagus is a source of B vitamins (including folate), vitamin C, and antioxidants, all of which help counteract oxidative stress and support mitochondrial function 2,4. Post-COVID, supporting mitochondria is critical, as mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to persistent fatigue, brain fog, and impaired recovery 1,5,6.
Functional Medicine Perspective
This meal is naturally anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense, and low in processed ingredients-aligning with recommendations for post-COVID recovery and mitochondrial support 3,6.
Both salmon and asparagus are considered functional foods, meaning they provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, including immune modulation and support for antiviral defenses 3.
Summary:
Cedar Planked Salmon with Grilled Asparagus is an optimal lunch for anti-inflammatory support, gut health, and mitochondrial function in a post-COVID functional medicine recovery plan. It delivers omega-3s, antioxidants, prebiotics, and key micronutrients that address the core needs of post-viral healing and resilience 2,4,5,6.
Citations:
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/nutrition/health-benefits-asparagus/
https://rthm.com/articles/mitochondrial-health-a-key-to-combat-long-covid/
https://www.ifm.org/articles/mitochondrial-impairment-in-long-covid-19
https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/baked-salmon-roasted-asparagus-cracked-wheat-bun
https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/67-73.pdf
https://mysourcenutrition.com/blogs/mysource-magazine/asparagus-gut-superfood
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/covid-19/best-foods-to-eat-with-covid-19
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411024000622
https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8040993/is-salmon-good-for-you/
