Why Isn’t My Brain Working Anymore?
Have you asked yourself that question lately?
Many of us struggle with memory loss and impaired concentration.
The more we learn about chronic inflammation in the body, especially in the gut, the more we know the gastrointestinal tract – GI tract – plays a pivotal role in mood, memory, drive, and immunity.
The ABCs of the gut/brain connection
The GI tract from start to finish is made up of trillions (yes – trillions) of microorganisms that live very happily alongside all of us. This “community” of organisms is collectively called the “microbiome.” These guys play roles in the health of our brains. Here’s how:
- They protect the lining of gut;
- They enhance nutrient absorption across that gut lining;
- They assist in the synthesis of vitamins and neurohormones that keep us healthy, sharp and energized; and
- They regulate blood sugar levels.
It’s when the harmful bacteria begin to outweigh the good guys that we run into trouble.
The disruption in the gut lining can lead to what we call “leaky gut syndrome” and the result is a chronic inflammatory state in the body (a slow burn if you will, under the surface). It leads to a whole host of problems, from seasonal allergies to auto-immune diseases and even Alzheimer’s.
This slow-burning fire also damages the organs we need to successfully navigate the stressful, polluted world we live in.
Organs like our brains, our kidneys, our liver, skin, bones, and breasts will try their best to hold up, but after a prolonged period of burnout, they begin to give up and stop producing the way they used to.
Here are some simple steps to take every day to minimize the “imbalance in your system”:
1. Brush your teeth after meals and floss daily.
2. Take a multivitamin/mineral with extra Vitamin D.
3. Supplement B-vitamins with IV boosters at the doctor’s office and check your B12 levels. Take folate if your homocysteine levels are high.
4. Increase your Omega 3 index to over 8% higher EPA/DHA. Try eating walnuts, salmon, avocado to help this.
5. Limit trans fats and Omega 6 rich foods like corn, soy, processed foods, sugar, gluten and processed meats.
Finally, exercise is the third leg of the stool. Start somewhere! Even a 20-minute walk releases all kinds of great hormones in the body and it only gets better from there.
Thanks for checking in.
For a deeper dive, come visit the AIM Clinic in Naples and meet Dr. Potter.
—Dr. Clint Potter is a general practice physician in Naples, FL. In addition to medical marijuana, his practice, Advance Individualized Medicine of Naples, provides specialized care for addiction services, cosmetic procedures, and LGBTQ patients. He treats the entire patient and takes an individualized approach. Call (239) 260-3880 or Text (239) 217-1247 for more information or to schedule an appointment. You can also email him.