Brain fog is a colloquial term used to describe a set of cognitive symptoms that impair focus, mental clarity, and short-term memory. It is not a medical condition per se, but rather a symptom that can result from various underlying issues. These may include stress, lack of sleep, nutritional imbalances, or medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or chronic fatigue syndrome.
The experience of brain fog can manifest as forgetfulness, confusion, a decreased ability to concentrate, and a lack of mental sharpness. It is important to note that persistent brain fog should not be dismissed, as it may be indicative of an underlying health issue that requires professional assessment and treatment.
Why do people get Brain Fog?
Stress
The most common reason is stress, which puts strain on multiple bodily systems, weakening immunity, taxing your adrenal glands, and affecting your state of mind.
Helpful Supplements: Rhodiola Rosea, Ashwagandha, Vegan Omega Oil
Chronic Fatigue / Fibromyalgia
These conditions, which are generalised mitochondrial disorders according to the latest evidence, often bring with them a sense of poor focus, and general neurological malaise. Improving mitochondrial function is the way to go here, via intermittent fasting and supplementation.
Helpful Supplements: CoQ 10, Bio reactor grown Phytoplankton, Nano Magnesium
Lack of Sleep
Exhaustion gives even normally healthy folks a taste of the mental lethargy and cloudy thinking that CFS sufferers live with daily. If you’re suffering from lack of sleep, either from a full schedule, small children or a problem with insomnia, the ancient practice of yoga nidra is one way to maximise the rest you can get. We recommend Dr Richard Miller’s wonderful Irest practice, available in the video below.
Blood sugar issues such as Diabetes
As anyone who has experienced a post-prandial slump will know that when blood sugar slumps, your mind feels it. For those who find brain fog follows heavy meals, eat smaller amounts, and if you’re concerned, get your blood sugar checked by a reliable health practitioner.
Helpful Supplements: Chromium, fenugreek, Banaba Leaf Extract
Hormonal Changes, i.e. menopause
It’s little surprise that hormonal shifts are going to affect our cognitive function. Menopause brings a commonly reported side effect of brain fog, due to the shifts in progesterone and estrogen. We recommend Gentle Iron also.
Helpful Supplements: Soya Products, Flaxseed, Dong Quai