You might have experienced getting mentally drained and exhausted during examinations, while writing a lengthy essay, or completing a report at work. The worst part is feeling like your brain is scattered, and you don’t know how to continue and finish everything on time.
Brain fog is a term used to describe symptoms like mental tiredness, disorientation, lack of focus, and memory problems. Nowadays, many tips and tricks to manage these symptoms are shared through various social media platforms. Some are home remedies, while others are food supplements that boost brain performance.
When it comes to drowsiness, unproductiveness, or lethargy, most people find that drinking coffee helps. A cup in the morning can surely energize your mind and body. Fortunately, modern technology has paved the way for transforming coffee into a pill. You don’t need to get up a little early to brew a cup or line up to get one. If you want to give them a try, check out the best caffeine pills according to Wholistic Research.
Causes Of Brain Fog
Brain fog is neither a brain disease nor a psychological condition. Here are the most common potential causes.
- Lack Of Sleep
The brain is a complex organ that works non-stop to control your body from the cellular level to the tissues and various organ systems. For your brain to function optimally, you need seven to nine hours of sleep. Hence, not getting adequate sleep may lead to brain fog.
- Hormonal Changes
Brain fog due to hormonal changes is commonly seen in women in their menopausal stage. Research shows that the gradual decrease of hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen, and progesterone may cause cognitive changes.
- Underlying Mental Condition
Mental conditions such as anxiety and depression cause imbalance and deficiency in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. They’re linked to the body’s ability to perceive pain and feel emotions such as joy, excitement, and triumph. When their levels are compromised, it may lead to brain fog.
- Diet And Lifestyle
As they say, you are what you eat. An unhealthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to brain fog. Processed foods, alcohol, cigarette smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle may hamper your brain from functioning the way it should.
- Medications
Mental fatigue and lack of focus could be adverse effects of your medication. Individuals with serious illnesses such as cancer, tumors, systemic, inflammatory, and infectious diseases may be ingesting high concentrations of strong drug compounds that cause cognitive impairment.
How To Manage Brain Fog
Aside from cognitive dysfunctions, brain fog may also lead to anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches, mood swings, and loss of appetite. Hence, it’s best to consult a medical professional. Brain fog shouldn’t be taken lightly as it could affect your overall health and wellness.
Here are some ways that can help manage brain fog:
- Adequate Sleep
The brain and other vital organs of the body experience fatigue and distress due to stress, lack of sleep, and internal dysfunctions. Restorative sleep can help you reboot and regain your full mental strength, so you can focus better and work efficiently.
If you have a sleeping problem, you must consult your primary physician for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
- Menopausal Hormonal Therapy
Menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT) is also knowns as postmenopausal hormone therapy or hormone replacement therapy. It’s highly beneficial for women who want to improve their quality of life. It replenishes the diminishing levels of hormones and helps treat cognitive dysfunctions commonly associated with brain fog.
- Diet and Lifestyle Modification
Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins and minerals is highly advisable. Vitamin B12, in particular, repairs and enhances the overall health of body cells, thus, increasing neuron performance. It’s also beneficial to drink more water, fresh juices, and smoothies.
Another option is to take nootropics or brain-boosting supplements that enhance overall cognitive function. They’re believed to increase attention, improve memory, boost mental energy, and promote creativity and productivity.
Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is also crucial to managing brain fog. Studies show that daily exercise can increase the brain’s blood supply, making the cells and brain healthier and more productive.
- Mental Break
If you find that you can’t concentrate no matter how hard you try, it may be time to take a mental break. Allow yourself to relax to enable your brain to recharge.
Some proven ways to unwind include meditating, practicing on how to breathe better and properly, taking a nap, viewing nature, or talking to a friend. Taking a break for a few minutes helps you recover from brain fog and get back on track.
Also read: Take Care Of Your Teeth: The Ultimate Guide To Oral Health
Takeaway
Brain fog is a serious concern because it hampers your productivity and could affect your overall health and wellness. Knowing the potential causes of brain fog is beneficial as it helps us manage its symptoms. It’s also crucial to consult a specialist for appropriate medical intervention to help you regain optimal brain function.