What is brain fog?
It’s a term used for certain symptoms that can affect your ability to think. You may feel confused or disorganized or find it hard to focus or put your thoughts into words. Did you know that our Brain is the most energy demanding part of your body? A simple scenario where you may notice brain fog could be having difficulty reading a book, following the plot line of a tv drama, or keeping track of a conversation.
“THE DAY SHE LET GO OF THE THINGS THAT WERE WEIGHING HER DOWN, WAS THE DAY SHE BEGAN TO SHINE THE BRIGHTEST”
– Katrina Mayer
What can cause brain fog?
- Stress/ anxiety – the fight or flight response make clear thinking very difficult as cortisol levels rise
- Blood Sugar – erratic eating habits, caffeine, alcohol, sugary snacks, and drinks, can all affect the brain
- Blood flow – restricted by low cardiac output and tension in the neck and shoulder muscles
- Toxins – such as fluoride and mercury, which can pass the blood-brain barrier
common symptoms
- Poor short-term memory
- Difficulty learning new things
- Poor mental stamina and concentration
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Feeling detached from reality
- Forgetfulness
- Frustration
- Procrastination
- Low energy
- Depression
What to eat and drink
- Staying hydrated contributes to your brain to function more efficiently.
- Drinking herbal peppermint tea also promotes clear thinking and refreshes the mind.
- Balancing blood sugar levels, by eating regularly and avoiding sugary snack and drinks. eating well.
- Food allergy can trigger brain Fog. Wheat is a common cause of brain fog along with other symptoms.
- Vitamin B12 is shown in studies to be effective for many neurological conditions.
- One dessertspoonful of cold-pressed organic coconut oil (10 ml) twice a day is perfect fuel for brain cells.
- Hemp oil has the right proportion of omega 6 to 3 to ensures membranes are of perfect consistency.
- Fish Oils –omega 3 fatty acids support brain structure and function.
- Check and prescription drugs with your GP as they can have profound effects on the brain.
Simple Ideas to help eliminate brain fog:
- Open a window or stepping outside and taking a few minutes to concentrate on your breathing.
- Practice breathing slowly and deeply to allow more oxygen into the body and more carbon dioxide out of the body.
- Use lighting to distinguish between day and night. When your eyes sense light, they will instantly send the signal to your brain that it is daytime, and you need to be awake.
- Learn to relax more. Meditation has been scientifically proven to benefit the brain including the areas responsible for concentration and attention.
- Do one thing at a time. Write a list, use a calendar, and set phone reminders, to help you remember tasks, events, and appointments.
- Cut down scheduled commitments and practice saying no more often, especially if your calendar is already looking full.
- Switch off the news or violent tv programmes which stimulate the mind in an unproductive way.
- Rest and let it pass
- A qualified practitioner could provide safe aromatherapy treatments, acupuncture, massage, reiki, reflexology, or Craniosacral Therapy to help with lymphatic drainage and relaxation