By Tom Everts PA-C, IFMCP
Sometimes you might feel like trading your brain in for a new one. Names keep slipping your mind, you can’t remember where you put your keys and you can’t keep up in a normal conversation? It can be really hard to deal with these types of symptoms. Unfortunately, no one has cracked the code of brain transplants… yet. Though, there are things you can do to function better and feel more like yourself again.
First of all, what is going on in your brain? There are billions of neurons that make up your brain, and these neurons become activated by sensing chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. Depending on the intention you set (getting up from a chair, planning your day, etc.), different areas will be activated. Variability arises in the strength of the signal being sent, how well a neuron picks up the signal and how that signal is then communicated to the next neuron. This process is happening ALL DAY at an amazing speed… It can be exhausting.
It’s no wonder that occasionally things won’t go as smoothly as normal. It becomes a bigger issue when dysfunction is your new normal.
There are a number of conditions that can cause disruption in certain areas of the brain as well as the chemical signaling required for things to run smoothly. It should come as no surprise that brain trauma is among the major causes of dysfunction. There are also other less obvious conditions that may be contributing, including sleep disturbances, high stress, genetic variability and chemical trauma (drugs and alcohol).
The result of this dysfunction is a whole slew of possible symptoms including fatigue, memory issues, difficulty concentrating, headaches, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
Every individual experiencing symptoms related to brain health should be worked up for their specific needs. In the meantime, here are some strategies to help get you started:
Eating strategy:
Consuming a range of colorful vegetables is important. Vegetables help feed the gut microbiome, which impacts our brain health, and provide our body with vitamins and other key nutrients. Drink plenty of water – half of your body weight in ounces is generally a good rule. Foods high in omega 3 fatty acids, like sardines and salmon, have been shown to improve brain health, as well. Bone broth is full of collagen and micronutrients that can help repair leaky gut – an inflammatory condition that can manifest as brain fog.
On the other hand, the standard American diet, which is full of sugar, processed foods and refined carbohydrates, tends to feed the bad bacteria in our gut – promoting inflammation and contributing to symptoms of brain dysfunction.
Sleep:
This may come as a no-brainer, but getting 7-9 hours of sleep is critical in promoting healthy brain function. As we sleep, our brain actually shrinks in size in order to squeeze out the metabolic debris produced during the day.
Exercise:
Regular exercise, including 30 minutes of walking every day, modulates various hormones in our body that work to improve brain health.
Stress:
Finding ways to relieve stress is critical in reducing symptoms of brain dysfunction. This can be meditation, journaling, exercise or even listening to music. Be intentional about reducing your stress – your brain will thank you.
DEEPER DIVE
Testing:
Be sure to rule out any conditions that may be perpetuating your symptoms, or may even be the underlying cause. This includes blood tests for thyroid disorder, stool testing to evaluate the microbiome, as well as food allergy testing.
Supplements:
Probiotics can help balance the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation coming from the gut. Omega 3 fatty acids, or fish oil, have been associated with overall reduced inflammation. Curcumin, resveratrol and luteolin have also been used to improve brain fog.
What new treatment options are available?
Magnetic Resonance Therapy (MeRT) is a tool that uses customized Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to treat specific areas of need in the brain and improve overall function depending on the individual.
Lifestyle modifications are challenging on a good day, and can be tortuous when you throw brain dysfunction in the mix. Reach out to a functional medicine practitioner to help you discover the underlying cause of your symptoms. They can guide you through specific changes that could help you get back to feeling like yourself.
Best of luck, and I’ll keep you posted with any progress in the brain transplant department.
Linell King MD, renowned internist and author of “Mastering Vitality” received his medical degree from the University Of Wisconsin School Of Medicine, and completed his residency at The Johns Hopkins University Sinai Hospital Program of Internal Medicine. He has been practicing for twenty years; currently at his “Naples Vitality” office in Naples, FL.
Our practice size is limited to ensure the best possible care for our clientele; we qualify and accept patients committed to working collaboratively to create improved health and continued success.
Naples Vitality
239-465-0098
www.Naplesvitality.com
3411 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 200
Naples, FL 34103