What You Need To Be Aware About Brain Fog?

What is brain fog? During a lengthy workday, your head is foggy. You’re uninspired, forgetful, and easily distracted.

Brain fog is frequent in:

• Stress
• Hormones
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Bad diet
• Meds (such as those for anxiety and depression)

A 2021 research detected brain fog in 7% of long-haul COVID-19 patients.

You should see a South Valley Neurology doctor if brain fog is interfering with your regular life. If you only have a little fogginess, it may be worth trying some lifestyle modifications.

Relax

Have you ever tried to concentrate but couldn’t? Research says trying harder doesn’t work. Quit for now.

A 2016 study found that taking a break improves performance, attention, and self-control.

Mental breakdowns vary, though. A 2019 study found that cell phone use does not refresh the brain as well as other relaxing methods.

Consume To Feel Wonderful

Candy and chips might enhance your brain temporarily, but a balanced meal can help you perform better all day.

Changes might be gradual. Instead of eliminating “unhealthy” foods, add healthy ones to your meals and snacks.

Blueberries, oranges, and almonds lower oxidative stress, which benefits the brain and body.

Fish are brain-healthy too. Experts say omega-3 fatty acids in fish reduce cognitive deterioration.

Hydrate. The brain is 75% water! A 2021 research revealed dehydration affects memory and emotions. 

Move!

The truth is more intricate than someone comparing your brain to a computer. The brain and body are interconnected. If your mind’s off, move.

Many workouts increase brain function, according to research.

Exercise boosts brain protein expression and reduces anxiety and despair, according to 2016 research.

2015 research suggests exercising may reduce chronic pain and exhaustion. A 2021 research says it might also distract us from negative thoughts, while a 2017 study suggests it can help regulate emotions after a traumatic incident.

Any movement counts toward the 30-minute daily CDC recommendation.

Attempt These:

• Walking: According to 2018, 10 minutes can improve mood.
• Yoga:  A 2019 Iranian study found it reduces stress, anxiety, and sadness.
• High-Intensity Workout: A 2021 study indicated it improves cognition.
• Stretching: 2019 research suggests it may help insomnia.
• Gardening: A 2017 study found that gardening reduces anxiety, despair, and life satisfaction. Harvesting fresh veggies is fulfilling and tasty.

Limit Coffee And Alcohol

In moderation, coffee and alcohol are socially acceptable.

However, when it comes to these two drugs, we must examine the gap between our definition of “moderation” and science.

Caffeine sensitivity can induce jitters, headaches, sleeplessness, upset stomach, and a fast heart rate. The FDA advises no more than 400 milligrams, or 4 to 5 cups, of coffee per day.

Starbucks’ Grande coffee is 2.5 cups, so it’s easy to hit the 4–5 cup limit without realizing it.

Alcohol, a stimulant, and depression inhibit cognition. Alcohol withdrawal can produce weariness, headache, vertigo, anxiety, and cognitive fog.

Chronic alcohol usage has been linked to brain and body inflammation in 2021 and dementia in 2019, according to a 2019 analysis.

Binge drinking is four or more drinks for women or five for men in two hours. One “unit” of alcohol is one drink. A standard 750 ml wine bottle has 10 units.

Talk to your doctor about alcoholism.

Sleep First

We all know that sleep deprivation causes exhaustion, but the brain and body suffer greatly.

Poor sleep impairs decision-making, problem-solving, and emotional control. Sleep deprivation can also raise your chances of chronic health issues including high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease, according to doctors.

Takeaway

Brain fog temporarily impairs concentration, memory, and task completion.

Better food, sleep, creativity, and phone-free breaks may help. Lifestyle or temporary pressures cause brain fog for most people. If your fogginess is accompanied by additional symptoms and impairs your capacity to function, see a doctor to rule out underlying illnesses.