9 Tips To Fighting Brain Fog

Brain fog, we all get it from time to time. It causes tasks to take longer than normal, concentration to wander, and leaves us feeling on the lethargic side. Simply put, its a generalized sense of not feeling 100 percent. So the question is: Why does this happen and what causes this annoying brain fog?

Let’s start with what its not. Brain fog is not a serious condition or abnormality. There are no studies that suggest that it is a sign of early dementia or disease either. The cause is simply lifestyle.

Every day we are exposed to a variety of toxins and substances that are less than helpful for our health. This daily exposure adds up over time and sometimes it’s more than the body can handle. When this happens it adversely affects many organs in the body, specifically the gut and the brain.

The gut and the brain are directly connected. The Gut-Brain Axis, as it is called, drives the body as a whole.

During human embryonic development, the nervous system is the first system to develop in the body. It develops almost simultaneously with the gastrointestinal system, and in fact, is “hardwired” into the gut—this is called the enteric nervous system, or ENS. The ENS is in constant communication with the central nervous system.

In a nutshell, the brain is directly affected by the state of the gut. When the gut is happy the brain is happy. The reverse is also true.

The gut microbiota, the microorganisms in the GI tract, play a crucial role in overall health. When you keep this ecosystem balanced and in a state of homeostasis, it helps to keep you happy and healthy.

As your system is overloaded with toxins and other substances the gut microbiota can fall out of balance and cause what we know as brain fog.

With that, the foods and supplements we put in our bodies have a big influence on brain fog. Foods can either support or harm the state of our mind as they directly impact the gut microbiota. When the gut microbiota is out of balance and begins to favor non-beneficial bacteria we often experience the fatigue and symptoms associated with brain fog.

Addressing an out of balance gut microbiota is oftentimes not an overnight task, it can take time and require lifestyle changes. Remember, health and wellbeing start in the gut. When we treat it with respect and properly provide nourishment, it will keep us healthy in return.

Is the gut microbiota the only cause of brain fog? No, but it is a typical suspect. So, what can you do to help kick brain fog? Here are a few tips for you:

  1. Get plenty of rest. Go to bed at a decent hour and wake up around the same time each day.
  2. Manage stress. Practice daily meditation, yoga, deep breathing or tai chi.
  3. Move your body. Our bodies were meant to move each and every day.
  4. Minimize toxins. Look at what you are putting in and on your body each day, the products you are cleaning your house and washing your clothes with and turn to natural alternatives where you can.
  5. Support your gut. Turn to enzymes and probiotics to help support your gut. At New Earth, we recommend a packet of Essentials a day.
  6. Experience nature. Get out in nature daily if possible.
  7. Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum.
  8. Hydrate. Drink plenty of water each day.
  9. Smile, laugh and enjoy life.