Description
Memory loss and brain fog are characterized by
forgetfulness and a reduced ability to think as
clearly/quickly. The conditions are often referred
to as mild cognitive impairment
or
age-related cognitive decline.
It is estimated that as many
as one-third of adults will experience such a gradual decline in
cognitive function
during their
lifetimes. The first
episodes of these symptoms are typically observed in people in their
40s and 50s, but subtle signs can appear in individuals in their 30s
or even earlier.
Such small changes in cognitive function need to be taken
seriously and potential causes identified, as mild cognitive decline
is associated with a significantly greater risk of both Alzheimer's
disease and accelerated decline in cognitive
function.
I firmly believe that these
conditions are not a "normal" part of aging
, and that the time to take action to try to prevent
further cognitive decline and/or reverse existing damage is when the
symptoms first appear.
Causes
There are many potential factors that may play a role in
cognitive decline, including:
- Diet
- Nutrient status
- Chronic
inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Vascular disease
- Infectious disease
- Environmental toxin exposure - e.g., heavy metals,
pesticides
- Hormone imbalances
- Psychological
stress
- Depression
- Head trauma
Treatment
Approach
Examine/address each of the potential causes,
e.g.:
- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that emphasizes
healthy fats, lean protein, whole grains, lots of vegetables, some
fruit, and filtered water.
- Reduce/avoid foods that the body may not be capable of
digesting properly and/or may be contributing to poor cognitive
function (e.g., allergens, food additives, trans
fats).
- Supplement to help restore the body's levels of
essential nutrients (e.g., antioxidants, B vitamins, zinc &
other minerals, essential fatty
acids).
- Avoid future environmental toxin exposure, and reduce
existing toxin levels in the
body (e.g., heavy metal removal via low/frequent-dose chelation).
- Address existing chronic infections (bacterial, viral,
fungal).
- Support endocrine function (adrenals, thyroid, sex
hormones).
- Seek professional help for existing
psychological factors (stress,
depression).
