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LEAVE A COMMENTConfusion, not being able to focus or lack of mental clarity (trouble wording your thoughts), and forgetfulness are some of the characteristics of an individual suffering from brain fog. “Brain fog” cannot be termed a medical condition, it’s a common condition that takes a toll on an individual’s ability to think. Having this condition is not normal though. If you are forgetting stuff, unable to concentrate, and most importantly, not being able to think clearly, it’s a good idea to get yourself evaluated.
Here are the major causes of brain fog:
Brain fog could result from a lifestyle-related cause, or any health condition or medications.
Eating an unhealthy diet (sugar and other sweeteners, low-fat diets, wheat, processed food and fast food that leads to increased consumption of sugar, salt and fat, not drinking enough water, caffeine withdrawal)- the key is to make a plant-based diet a part of your daily routine.
Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, and magnesium)- a multivitamin supplement in consultation with your doctor can make up for the nutritional deficiencies/ to meet the nutritional needs of the brain.
Inadequate sleep– Sleep is at the center of how your brain functions in both long- and short-term. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per day.
Chronic stress– Constant stress puts you at an increased risk of the symptoms (collectively described by the term “brain fog”) that impact someone’s thinking ability, and even degenerative brain diseases like dementia. Work to manage your stress well (meditation, yoga can help).
Other lifestyle-related causes include lack of physical activity and exposure to toxins, and health conditions that can lead to brain fog as a symptom include
All of us forget things, and these moments of forgetfulness tend to increase with increasing age. It’s normal. Also, do not confuse brain fog with dementia. You already know the major causes of the condition and most of them are hardly scary and can be worked upon to clear up brain fog symptoms (forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty paying attention, disorientation, poor mental energy). This is in stark contrast to the cognitive problems related to Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
It’s beyond the memory that gets impacted when you have a form of dementia, in terms of functional changes that one is most likely to notice, for example, difficulty carrying out household chores, cessation of social activities. If you notice a change in your ability to function in day-to-day life, it’s time to consult with a doctor for further screening. The results can set you on the right path to receive treatment. The need for assisted living Anthem may arise as well.
The lifestyle choices you make in terms of healthy eating, exercise, social engagement, are at the core of preventing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Maintaining an active brain by challenging your brain through learning something new, doing crossword puzzles, volunteering, is another key preventive measure. To book a suite at Anthem Senior Living for specialized memory care for your loved one with dementia, call us at 602.909.9550.
