So. Whilst trying to be all festive and homeopathic, I decided to do an Instagram advent calendar. It was all going so well until I realised I had missed out 7 December. I obviously have to own this error, though I must say, nobody said a word, so maybe I could have gotten away with it?!
Have you ever caught yourself perpetually forgetting everything? Not just what happened yesterday, or what you were meant to do today but also what you were thinking one second ago? Brain fog can be described as having poor concentration, memory problems, lack of clarity and inability to focus.
It is indicative of poor nutrition, candida overgrowth, usually caused by over consumption of sugar, stress, depression and thyroid conditions. All of the causal factors have a connection with hormonal imbalances.
The hippocampus is the memory centre of your brain. Research has shown that the structure of the hippocampus changes in rhythm with estrogen levels, therefore establishing a link between hormonal health and memory (1). The endocrine system is so delicately balanced that it can be assumed that any hormonal disruption can result in symptoms of brain fog.
But all is not lost. There is a lot you can do to remedy this both practically and using homeopathy.
Ditch the Sugar
This will prevent the overgrowth of candida which is a prime condition for brain fog. Candida overgrowth limits the diversity of your microbiome which disrupts your hormones. There is a direct physical connection between the gut and the brain via the vagus nerve, and gut microbiome have an impact on your memory and moods. Sugar is food for candida, so cutting it out can hugely impact your concentration, focus and memory.
Increase Vegetables and Fats
Vegetables that are high in antioxidants and fats such as omega 3 and MCTs can help improve brain function.
Exercise
Get moving, it will improve your memory as well as you moods and general feeling of well being (3).
Sleep
Sleep is essential for memory. We process thoughts and emotions, as well as physically rest in our sleep, so any disruption can be detrimental to overall health (4).
Homeopathy for Brain Fog
Homeopathy has a lot to offer for brain fog. There are so many remedies that have a indication for mental dullness but here are my three favourites:
Lycopodium
A wonderful remedy for brain fog, Lycopodium will experience a weak memory and confused thoughts, especially for names and letters. Considering the gut-brain connection, Lycopodium has an affinity for digestion, with patients experiencing gas and bloating as well as malnutrition. It is one of the most indicated remedies for sugar cravings that make all ailments worse so could be appropriate for candida overgrowth. Sleep is disturbed, usually between 1am and 3am. Emotionally, sadness and anger feature heavily in the symptom picture of this remedy, but Lycopodium always feel better in open air.
Sepia
As one of the best remedies for hormonal disorders, I have used Sepia a lot for fertility cases. There are issues around hormonal times such as menstruation, menopause, pregnancy and post partum, when depression can be a common symptom with this remedy. Infertility and low sex drive also feature in the remedy picture. Sepia is mentally and physically worn out although vigorous exercise such as dancing or running will always make them feel better. This also helps to improve the bad circulation of Sepia. The remedy picture contains confusion, sadness and depression. There is also a craving for chocolate and sweets but conversely, also acidic foods.
Nat Mur
Low sodium can be a causal factor for poor memory, so it is no wonder Nat Mur which is essentially salt, has an affinity for brain fog. It is another great hormonal remedy that also has indications of infertility as well as impotence. Nat Mur is malnourished with digestive disturbances and will often crave salt even though it will make them feel worse. This is a big remedy for grief, depression and sadness. Confusion with a fear of going insane features strongly in Nat Mur. Sleep is difficult due to the grief and dwelling on past, unpleasant events and there is weakness in the stomach leading to anxiety which could be caused by lack of diverse microbiome.
You don’t have to suffer with brain fog. Try some self help measures, but if you find you are still feeling foggy, get in touch so we can work together to overcome your mental dullness.
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References
1. https://molecularbrain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13041-019-0442-7
2. https://www.embopress.org/doi/full/10.15252/embj.201695810
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770965/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7007500/
