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Brain fog and fatigue are two very common symptoms that can have a variety of causes.
Sometimes fatigue and brain fog are just the results of lacking enough sleep or rest, but other times it may be something more serious. Both can lead to cognitive issues, low motivation levels, depression, anxiety, and sleep problems.
This post will go over the most common causes for brain fog or fatigue, as well as tips on how you can get relief from these conditions.
So, lets get started.
What Is Brain Fog Exactly
Brain fog or mental fog is a cognitive state characterized by confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of focus.
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and muscle aches can accompany mental fog.
The term brain fog is often used to describe the feeling of mental exhaustion or zoned out that can happen after a long day.
It can also be a symptom of depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, or sleep disorder.
People who experience brain fog often describe the condition as a mild cognitive impairment that usually lasts for a few days. However, others find it as a cognitive dysfunction that goes on for months.
A Brain Supplement To Combat Brain Fog
Memory Health® was tested and proven in double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials, becoming the first supplement to receive a patent for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative disease, specifically Alzheimer’s and dementia. It has been clinically proven to improve cognitive functions and memory. Other tested benefits include improvement in sight, focus, clarity, and mood.
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What Is A Nootropic
A nootropic is another type of supplement that supports cognition and healthy brain function. From coffee to fish oil to prescription stimulants and naturally-occurring nutrients including certain vitamins and minerals, there are many substances that support brain function and mood. Nootropics promote cognitive functions, memory, and learning.
Since some prescription medications may have negative side effects, people often choose a botanical or mushroom supplement to help them deal with brain fog. When incorporated into your daily routine, the nutritive and antioxidant capacity of the bioactive compounds contained in these natural supplements can support brain health and mood.
Probiotics For The Gut
If Ive learned anything through my years in functional medicine, its that the gut is at the center of our health. Brain health is no exception to this rule, either. The gut-brain axis has been well-established for example, occludin and zonulin are two proteins that govern gut permeability as well as the permeability of your blood-brain barrier. Its not uncommon at all for someone to come into my clinic looking for help with depression or brain fog and have further diagnostic testing reveal that they also have a leaky gut syndrome. It just goes to show that digestive problems can still be a factor even if you arent experiencing symptoms. That’s why I always recommend a probiotic for all of my patients.
How to take probiotics: I recommend taking a probiotic with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and at least 50 billion CFUs once a day.
If youre feeling a little more sluggish and foggy-brained this year, youre not alone. The good news is that there are plenty of lifestyle practices including the supplements above! that can help you feel sharper, more positive, and clear-headed.
As one of the first functional medicine telehealth clinics in the world, we provide webcam health consultations for people around the globe.
Our content may include products that have been independently chosen and recommended by Dr. Will Cole and our editors. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.
BY DR. WILL COLE
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‘thought I Was About To Die’
Mr Webb, an emergency medical technician with the East of England Ambulance Service, was unvaccinated when he spent Christmas in 2020 and the subsequent new year in hospital.
“At that time I genuinely thought I was about to die,” he said.
“I felt so poorly, I just hurt from head to toe.”
When he was discharged, he was weak and exhausted, could not work and found even light activity would lead to two days in bed with aches and pains.
Last year, desperate for something to alleviate his symptoms, he joined a trial devised by Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
He and 146 other volunteers were given a dried lactobacillus probiotic capsule every day between May and November.
Half were also given a phytochemical-rich concentrated food capsule, while the other half were given a placebo.
The results revealed that fatigue and coughing improved significantly in the entire group, and more so in those who took the food capsule, the hospital said.
At The End What Nootropic Should I Buy
Using nootropics toimprove your mental performancemight look like a good concept. But prior to you start popping tablets, you must know that different nootropics work in different ways. Some boost memory, while others minimize anxiety. Some are natural, while others are synthesized in a laboratory.
And a few of these natural supplements are even proven to be efficient.Once upon a time, people depend on their own natural abilities to stay sharp and focused. Alas, in the modern world, these capabilities have actually been sorely disregarded, which makes it tough to focus at work, keep in mind essential information, and stay on topic throughout conferences.
Whats an ambitious young expert to do? If youre a brainiac in need of an increase, your best bet is to attempt a nootropic, or wise drug, that can assist you work harder, research study longer, and, ultimately, improve your efficiency.
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Will Nootropics Help Trainees
There is no easy answer to this question as it depends on the type and intensity of the condition being treated, the effectiveness of the nootropic, and other individual aspects. That stated, many people do discover that nootropics can help enhance their focus, concentration, and memory, which can in turn lead to better scholastic performance. If you are struggling with focus or concentration, or if you merely wish to provide yourself a cognitive edge, then checking out a nootropic might be worth thinking about. Simply make certain to do your research and speak with a physician before starting any new supplement program. Supplements For Fatigue And Brain Fog
Different Type Of Brain Fog Supplements
When it comes to Choline, you need to know the difference between the different types available, so you choose the one that has the best bio-availability level for you. You will usually need fewer of these Choline options than any other. But, you can also choose phosphatide Choline or Choline K bitartrate . Citicoline and Alpha GPC two overcome it between blood and brain more than any other
If you decide on Alpha GPC with Noopept, you should take over 20 times more of choline than Noopept. So, if you were taking 20mg of Noopept, you would take 400mg of choline. When it comes to Citicoline, you will need about 30 times more, so you will take 600 mg with the 20mg of Noopept.
There are times when the relationship changes based on other health factors and your diet will need to. Some people can have lower choline doses because it is already in their system. You will also need to think about any other stacks you take, Modafinil or Piracetam.
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Other Ways To Reduce Brain Fog
Brain fog symptoms can be related to a number of factors, including nutrient deficiencies, lack of sleep, stress, and even undiagnosed medical issues.
If youre experiencing symptoms such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and inability to process information, its a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional.
They can run tests that may help you find out why youre experiencing these symptoms.
For example, medical conditions such as Hashimotos thyroiditis, celiac disease, and anxiety disorders may present with brain fog symptoms (
Iv Treatments For Clearing Brain Fog
In addition to the vitamins above, NAD + IV therapy can help clear brain fog. NAD+ is essential for cellular health, especially mitochondrial activity, which is necessary for metabolism and general health. Our NAD+ supply depletes as we become older. Supplementing with NAD+ can help to counteract these negative effects.
NAD aids in the proper functioning of the brain. By increasing sirtuins, a protein that acts as an anti-aging mechanism, this coenzyme rejuvenates and restores brain function, slowing the impacts of neurodegenerative illnesses and normal cognitive decline. Those who have used NAD+ supplements may experience improved memory, attention, and vitality, all of which can help alleviate symptoms of brain fog.
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Recap: Make Sure Youre Getting Enough Of The Following
If youre looking for vitamins and nutrients that can help mitigate brain fog, avoid flashy, celebrity-endorsed supplements with too much branding and not enough peer-reviewed, third-party studies to verify their benefits. Instead, just make sure youre getting your recommended daily values of vitamins like B, C and D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Eat a healthy diet, dont take supplements without consulting the instructions and your doctor, and keep in mind: Vitamins arent the only course to a clearer head. Other simple lifestyle changes including sleep and exercise can make a big difference in clearing brain fog.
Do Nootropics Enhance Sleep
There is no conclusive evidence that nootropics enhance sleep. Some people claim that they help them sleep much better, however there is no scientific proof to support this. There are a couple of anecdotal reports of individuals taking nootropics and sleeping better, however more research is required to validate these claims.
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Best Brain Supplements To Ease Brain Fog And Jet Lag
How to beat Jet Lag Business travel concept.
getty
While theres no magic bullet, many solutions are offered for jet lag, the dreaded side affect of long distance travel caused by quickly crossing time zones. Oral supplements that can combat fatigue and difficulties in concentrating, the key symptoms from an out of sync internal body clock, are one helpful option. Melatonin supplements are a well-known jet lag solution and the Mayo Clinic is not alone in stating that as a jet lag remedy, melatonin has been widely studied and its now a commonly accepted part of effective jet lag treatment. However, melatonin doesnt work for everyone so here are eight other brain supplements that have shown promise in helping travelers deal with jet lag. Some of these use the amino acid L-Tryptophan, or its derivative, 5-HTP, which are considered an alternative to melatonin. L-Tryptophan is involved in the production of the brain chemical serotonin, which affects mood and sleep. Others include Nootropics, natural or synthetic substances known as smart drugs. Most supplements should be taken for a couple of days before travel and for four to five days after arrival.
Nootropics supplement from Elm & Rye
Elm & Rye
Daylesfords 5 HTP supplements
Daylesford
Brain supplements from Onnit Labs
Onnit Labs
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Personalize Your Brain Fog Fix Strategy
Now that you know what brain fog is and the underlying causes of this debilitating condition, its time to put together a plan to eliminate it from your life.
The thing is, most of us are not walking around thinking about oxidative stress. But now that you know what it is you can assume its something you need to deal with.
Begin by using Vitamin C and the right kind of Vitamin E, CoQ10, and L-Carnosine as part of your daily routine.
Take a look at your latest lab work and find out if you have issues with elevated proinflammatory cytokines or C-Reactive Protein .
If its CRP then start using Myo-inositol, Acetyl-L-Carnitine and a high quality DHA supplement every day.
If its elevated cytokines, choose 2 or 3 nootropic supplements from the list above and use them daily. And tame the inflammation in your brain.
Youll know youre successful when you check with yourself in a week and realize there is no more brain fog.
If your labs show your thyroid hormones are low, then start with iodine and selenium every morning.
And only you can know if lack of sleep is contributing to your brain fog. If it is, see my post linked above on finally getting some quality sleep.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor has been called Miracle Gro® for the brain. There is no doubt we need adequate levels of BDNF to function well.
And we have 13 ways to boost BDNF levels in our brain. Add one or two to your nootropic stack.
Saver J.L. Time is brain quantified. Stroke. 2006 37:263266.
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Everyday Solutions For Brain Fog
- Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep consistently
- Drinking the recommended 64 ounces of water every day
- Avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and other mind-altering substances
- Reducing your stress levels with yoga, exercise and meditation
- Reducing unnecessary screen time and doom scrolling on social media
Which Vitamins And Supplements Are Best For Brain Fog
The good news about brain fog is that you can keep it at bay with the right nutrition. Improving your overall diet is the first, and most important, step to getting rid of brain fog.According to recent studies, roughly 46 percent of American adults have a poor diet. Improving your diet is one of the quickest ways to reverse the effects of brain fog.
These are the most beneficial vitamins and minerals to focus on:
Vitamin B
There are a total of eight different vitamins that compose the B-group. These vitamins primarily help your enzymes perform their jobs, which include producing energy for the brain to help keep it alert and focused.
Vitamin B12 is the single most important vitamin in terms of cognitive function as it plays a key role in the function and development of brain and nervous system cells B12 helps to maintain the communication pathways your brain cells use to communicate with one another, supporting the mental clarity that brain fog can disrupt.
The other B vitamins can also play roles in the battle against brain fog. For example, vitamins B1 , B2 , and B7 are good for your nervous system vitamin B6 and B3 are good for your neurotransmitters and B9 helps with mental fatigue.
All types of B vitamins are readily available in various meats, dairy products, vegetables , and legumes, so simply working toward a well-rounded diet can already boost your B vitamin intake!
Vitamin DOmega-3Lions ManeAshwagandhaMCT Oil
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Long Covid: Ambulance Worker Credits Food Supplements To Alleviate Symptoms
An ambulance worker who was off duty for 14 months with long Covid said taking a daily probiotic and food supplement had been “life-changing”.
Matt Webb, of Tilney St Lawrence, near King’s Lynn, Norfolk, suffered from “sheer exhaustion” since contracting the virus in 2020.
He credits a treatment trial, led by scientists in Cambridge, for his improved health and return to work.
“In three days, the difference was off the charts,” said the father-of-two.
“I felt I had so much energy, the brain fog had cleared.”
Medications And Medical Conditions
Many over-the-counter medications, such as popular allergy drugs, impair cognitive function or disrupt your brains ability to utilize the neurotransmitter chemicals necessary for quick decision making and improved reaction times.
Likewise, many medical conditions may cause brain fog. This highlights the need to discuss your brain fog worries with a medical professional in case its part of a more serious health concern.
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Natural Nootropic Supplements For Brain Fog
These natural brain-enhancing supplements are generally well-tolerated in moderate doses. They also have no addictive potential. Many nootropic supplement companies stack these ingredients together based on their complementary biochemistry. Some even mix them with coffee, since caffeine is also a nootropic.
Some of the most popular natural nootropics include the following:
Bacopa monnieri is used in Ayurvedic medicine and has a long history of use for its memory-enhancing effects. It works mainly by increasing acetylcholine and other neurotransmitters. Therefore, it improves attention, learning, cognitive processing, and working memory.36
Lions mane or Hericium Erinaceus is a fuzzy-looking medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine. This medicinal mushroom has been tested and shown to improve recognition memory in experimental trials. It is a potent stimulator of BDNF and NGF.37
Alpha GPC is a choline-containing phospholipid, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and provide a backbone for acetylcholine.
Being in ketosis also works as a hormesis that strengthens your mitochondria, which is good for your brain function and longevity.38
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How Long Does It Take To Brain Supplements To Improve Memory And Focus
This is a tough question to respond to due to the fact that it depends upon the particular supplement, the active ingredients it includes, and the private taking it.
Some individuals might see outcomes within a couple of days or weeks, while others may not discover any difference at all. If you do choose to take a brain supplement, make certain to talk to your physician ahead of time to discuss any possible dangers or side effects.
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Underlying Conditions Associated With Brain Fog
Brain fog can be a symptom of a lot of different conditions, many of which can go undiagnosed for quite a while. If youre experiencing brain fog and cant seem to figure out why, you might be unknowingly dealing with an underlying condition.
Stealth infections:
Harmful microbes in the form of viruses, fungi, or bad bacteria can contribute to brain fog:
COVID-19: Were not trying to freak anyone out here, but its worth mentioning that some people who contract COVID report feeling fuzzy headed and unable to think clearly, both while they had the virus and in the recovery period afterward. Recently, scientists were able to pinpoint exactly why that happens by looking at autopsies of people who had died from COVID-19. They found cells called megakaryocytes, which normally live only in bone marrow, in the brain capillaries of these patients. These cells are far larger than the type of cells found in a healthy brain, and so, as one researcher put it, finding megakaryocytes in these tubes is like finding a football stuffed into a really small pipe in your house. Nothing is going to go through.
Autoimmune and other underlying conditions:
These causes can be genetic, or caused by lifestyle or environmental factors.
