Noah Lyles Reveals What Helped Him Recover from COVID-19 Years Ago

Noah Lyles Reveals What Helped Him Recover from COVID-19 Years Ago

 

September 1, 2025 – In a candid revelation that has sparked interest across the sports and health communities, world-renowned sprinter Noah Lyles has shared details about the substance that helped him recover from COVID-19 during the early years of the pandemic.

Lyles, a multiple-time world champion and Olympic medalist, made the statement during a recent interview on a sports wellness podcast. Speaking about his experience with the virus, which he contracted in 2020, the American sprinter said his recovery was aided by a combination of rest, nutrition, and a specific natural supplement that he believes played a significant role in boosting his immune system.

> “I didn’t talk about it much back then because the focus was on staying safe and getting back to training,” Lyles said. “But now, looking back, I can say that one of the key things that helped me bounce back was elderberry syrup.”

Elderberry, a traditional herbal remedy known for its immune-supporting properties, became increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lyles said he began taking it regularly during his illness, alongside advice from his personal nutritionist and team doctors.

> “I’m not saying it’s a cure,” Lyles clarified. “But for me, it definitely helped with the symptoms and recovery process. I also focused heavily on hydration, clean eating, and taking time to truly rest — which was hard as an athlete used to pushing my limits.”

Lyles’ revelation has drawn attention, not just because of his status as a top-tier athlete, but also because of the ongoing conversations around holistic approaches to health and recovery. While elderberry has been used for centuries to treat colds and flu-like symptoms, its use during COVID-19 was met with both support and skepticism from the medical community due to limited clinical research.

Health experts caution that while elderberry and other supplements may support general wellness, they are not substitutes for scientifically proven treatments or vaccines. Dr. Elaine Murphy, a sports medicine specialist, commented on Lyles’ statement:

> “It’s great to see athletes talk openly about their recovery journeys. Supplements like elderberry may provide immune support, but they should always be used as part of a broader health plan supervised by professionals.”

Noah Lyles, now 28, has returned to peak performance in recent years, dominating the track in major events and continuing to inspire a new generation of athletes. His openness about his COVID-19 experience adds a new layer to his public persona — that of an athlete who values both physical performance and holistic well-being.

As the world continues to reflect on the long-term effects of the pandemic, stories like Lyles’ serve as a reminder that health is multifaceted — involving not just medical treatment, but also nutrition, rest, and mental resilience.