Imagine waking up one morning, ready to tackle the day, but your mind feels like it's wading through a thick fog. You struggle to concentrate, forget important details, and your mental clarity seems lost. This is what experiencing brain fog feels like, and for many, it's an all-too-common occurrence. What we have noticed is that in recent years, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports of brain fog have surged, affecting people of all ages. This article will explore five essential strategies to prevent and heal brain fog, helping you regain mental sharpness and clarity.

Understanding Brain Fog

What is Brain Fog?

Brain fog isn't a medical term but a way to describe a range of cognitive issues or dysfunctions. Symptoms include memory loss/ memory problems, difficulty focusing, mental fatigue, and a general feeling of mental cloudiness. It affects the person’s ability to focus and think clearly, making it hard to remember things. It's akin to trying to think through a haze, and it can significantly impact daily life¹. Low nutrients levels can also cause brain fog. 

 

In recent years, people of all ages that have gotten the Covid-19 sh@t are self reporting symptoms of brain fog (63%). You might wonder why? There are theories that denote that Covid-19 itself persist in the gut after the inflammation is gone, while the sh@t lingers for years and disrupts your immune system. All these changes affect and change your microbiome. Gut changes are associated with brain function or disfunction. So, it is all interconnected!

Is Brain Fog a Mental Illness?

While Brain Fog is not a mental health Illness, it can be a symptoms of common health conditions like stress, depression, and anxiety.

 

What causes of Brain Fog?

 

Brain fog can stem from several mental conditions, medications, drugs, medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, stress, and even COVID-19.

The most common condition is linked to neuroinflammation which can be caused by infection, injury, neurodegenerative disease, or aging. 

 

Some of the most common reasons include:

• 1) Diets: Poor diets, like diets high in sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation and negatively impact brain function².
• 2) Lack of Sleep: not enough sleep or poor sleep quality disrupts the brain's ability to clear toxins, leading to cognitive issues³.
• 3) Stress: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can impair memory and cognitive function⁴.
• 4) Sedentary Lifestyle: Physical inactivity is linked to decreased brain health and increased risk of cognitive decline⁵.
• 5) Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypothyroidism, depression, and post-COVID-19 syndrome (long COVID) and/or Covid-19 sh@t are associated with brain fog⁶.
• 6) Medicine: Certain medications can contribute to sleep problems, thinking problems, and brain fog. If you experience brain fog symptom while taking medication consult with your health practicioner. Some of the medication that might cause brain fog are: 
• Benzodiazepines
• Antidepressants
• Opioids
• Anti-psychotics and mood stabilizers
• Anti-seizure drugs
• Synthetic sleeping aids such as melatonin, benzodiazepines such as Valium and Xanax, 
• Over the counter medicine like Benadryl and other antihistamine allergy medications also can lead to temporary brain fog

Hormonal Changes like in people going through menopause can experience the symptoms of Brain fog having trouble remembering or difficulty concentrating. 

 

What organs are related to Brain Fog?

Many conditions that affect our internal organs can cause brain fog. We can start with our digestive system. There are studies that link the changes on our microbiome causing inflammation can cause changes in our Brain Function.

The liver is another organ in charge of eliminating the toxins out of our body and storing vitamins and minerals. Malfunction of this organ is believe cause damage in our body primarily on our brain. Hepatic encephalopathy is a decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease.

 

There are other medical conditions such as Autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia that can contribute to brain fog.

 

What are Brain Fog Symptoms?

A person that is experiencing Brain Fog can show the following physical symptoms: 

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and tiredness
• Headaches
• Trouble multitasking
• Disorganization
• Decreased productivity
• Difficulty communicating

How to Prevent Brain Fog

Improve Your Diet/ More Balanced Diet

A nutrient-rich diet is essential for optimal brain function. Incorporate the following foods to boost cognitive health:

• Lion's Mane Mushrooms: Known for their neuro-protective properties, Lion's Mane mushrooms promote brain health by stimulating the growth of new nerve cells⁷. They are also shown to improve memory and cognitive function. Two main compounds, Hericenones and Erinacines, that stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells in the brain. You can learn more about Lion's Mane and their benefits here. 
• Leafy Greens: Rich in Iron, Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support brain health⁸. In some cases iron supplements may increase your production of red blood cells and reduce your brain fog. Before supplementing with Iron it's important to consult to a healthcare provider to understand your current levels or iron.
• Fatty Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel support brain function and reduce inflammation⁹. It facilitate communication within your brain, boost blood flow, and support cognition.
• Nuts and Seeds: High in antioxidants and healthy fats, nuts and seeds are great for brain health¹⁰.

Enhance Sleep Quality

Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function, it helps your neurons community with each other. Recent findings suggest that good hours of sleep plays an important role because it removes toxins in your brain that build up while you are awake. Here are some tips to improve your sleep:

• Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your body's internal clock¹¹.
• Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains and a white noise machine¹².
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in activities like reading, meditation, or gentle stretching before bed to relax your mind[^13^]. Here at Nummies, the majority likes to play soft background music and reading. 

Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress can take a toll on your brain. Here are some effective stress management techniques:

• Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help reduce stress and improve focus and memory[^14^].
• Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week[^15^].
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Practicing deep breathing can activate your parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation[^16^].
• Supplementing with Adaptogens: Adding functional mushroom tinctures or gummies to your ritual can be enough of lifestyle changes to help you reduce stressors and reclaim your balance. We recommend Reishi Mushroom to aid on managing stress and relaxing to gain good quality sleep.

Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity is not just good for your body; it’s essential for your brain. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the growth of new neurons.

• Cardio Exercises: Activities like walking, running, and swimming boost overall brain health[^17^].
• Strength Training: Lifting weights and resistance training improve cognitive function and protect against age-related decline[^18^].
• Yoga: Combines physical activity with mindfulness, reducing stress and improving brain function[^19^].

Consider Supplements

Supplements can provide an extra boost to your brain health. Consider the following:

• Mushroom Tinctures and Gummies: These supplements, especially those made with Lion's Mane and other medicinal mushrooms, support cognitive function and overall brain health[^20^]. We recommend to pair functional mushrooms with relax and sleep gummies when it comes to boosting your brain and reducing stress. 
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil supplements, these fats are crucial for brain health[^21^]. 
• B Vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B6, B9, and B12, support brain health and reduce homocysteine levels, which are linked to cognitive decline[^22^].

 

Cognitive Training

Keeping your brain active is crucial for preventing and healing brain fog. Engage in cognitive training exercises:

• Puzzles and Brain Games: These activities challenge your brain and improve cognitive function[^26^].
• Reading: Reading stimulates your brain, improves focus, concentration, and enhances knowledge[^27^]. 
• Learning New Skills: Taking up new hobbies or learning new skills can create new neural pathways in your brain[^28^].

Seek Professional Help

If brain fog persists, it may be time to seek professional help. Consult a doctor if:

• Symptoms are Severe: If brain fog significantly impacts your daily life[^29^].
• Underlying Conditions: If you suspect an underlying medical condition is causing your symptoms[^30^].
• Potential Treatments: Discuss potential treatments and therapies that may help alleviate brain fog[^31^].

Case Studies and Testimonials

Real-life Stories

Beth | Age: 25-34 

"After getting the COVID-19 sh@ts I started experiencing brain fog symptoms. I couldn't believe it! This situation was making so frustrated. I didn't believe that taking supplements could help my brain. But I didn't have anything to loose so I gave it a try. I started with the gummies that contain Lion's Mane and the outcome has exceeded my expectations. Not only do I feel calmer, but I also experience a better mood and less mental fog. It's incredible how much this supplement has helped me maintain a positive outlook. After four weeks of taking Lion's Mane Functional Mushroom Gummies, there is a marked improvement in my focus and memory. I feel more alert during work hours, and my overall mental clarity has significantly increased. I will recommend anybody looking to improve their brain function one way or the other one. The results are long term but well worthiest."

Making the Decision

Why Choose Natural Remedies?

Natural remedies offer numerous benefits over pharmaceutical solutions:

• Fewer Side Effects: Natural supplements like mushroom tinctures and gummies typically have fewer side effects compared to pharmaceuticals[^36^].
• Holistic Health: Natural remedies often support overall health, not just symptom relief[^37^].

How to Incorporate Mushrooms into Your Routine

Incorporating mushrooms into your daily routine can be simple and enjoyable:

• Tinctures: Add mushroom tinctures to your morning coffee or tea for an easy boost[^38^].
• Gummies: Enjoy mushroom gummies as a convenient and tasty supplement[^39^].
• Recipes: Use mushrooms in cooking to enhance your meals with brain-boosting benefits[^40^].

Conclusion

Brain fog can be a challenging and frustrating condition, but it is possible to overcome it with the right strategies. By improving your diet, enhancing sleep quality, managing stress, staying physically active, and considering supplements like mushroom tinctures and gummies, you can prevent and heal brain fog. Take action today to regain your mental clarity and boost your cognitive health.