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Remedies for Brain Fog

Brain fog is the common term for slowed or impaired cognition. It can stem from a number of physical and psychological causes such as lack of sleep, depression or allergic conditions. While there are many potential remedies for brain fog, determining the cause is vital to choosing an effective treatment.

  1. Caffeine

    • Caffeine is a mild stimulant that aids in focus and alertness. It works by speeding heart rate and metabolism, providing a temporary boost in energy and alertness. When used in moderation, it can be an effective remedy for brain fog caused by fatigue.

      Caffeine is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA and is not known to cause serious or chronic health effects when used in moderation. According to the International Food Information Council, up to 300 mg of caffeine---the equivalent of three cups of coffee---can be consumed daily with little risk of side effects. Daily intake of higher doses can lead to dependence, jitteriness and other negative effects, making moderation the key to using caffeine successfully.

    Herbal remedies

    • Many herbal supplements claim to fight brain fog; the most popular is gingko biloba. According to Botanical-Online.com, gingko dilates blood vessels to improve circulation and increase oxygen flow to the brain, which can have positive effects on memory and cognitive functioning.

      Stimulating herbs can also help reduce brain fog in some people. Like caffeine, herbal stimulants work by speeding heart rate and raising blood pressure, which in turn increases the rate at which the brain functions. Popular stimulating herbs include Korean ginseng, yerba mate, calamus root and guarana, though these should be taken with caution due to their ability to interact with other herbs and medications.

    Physical activity

    • Exercise is vital for proper functioning of every part of the body, including the brain. It improves circulation, increases oxygen levels in the brain and boosts production of serotonin, endorphins and other "feel-good" chemicals needed for mood regulation and cognitive functioning. According to personal training director and mindfulness meditation instructor Judith Easton, regular exercise increases energy and normalizes sleeping patterns, making it a great remedy for brain fog caused by depression or fatigue.

    Deep breathing

    • Anxiety and tension often cause shallow breathing, which deprives the brain of oxygen. Over time, shallow breathing can lead to fatigue and clouded thinking as the brain fights for adequate oxygen. According to CfidsSelfHelp.org, deep breathing exercises help control the body's response to stress, a leading cause of physical fatigue, depression and anxiety.

    Determining the cause

    • In order to effectively treat brain fog, it's important to unearth the source of the problem. Among the many possible causes of brain fog are depression, chronic fatigue syndrome and allergic reactions to foods and other substances. According to WholeApproach.com, allergies to certain foods and chemicals can directly affect the brain, causing symptoms like difficulty concentrating and brain fog.

      Eating foods that provide adequate nutrition is vital for optimal brain functioning. For most people, a diet high in saturated fats, refined carbohydrates and other "junk" foods can lead to brain fog and general sluggishness. Certain medications such as tricyclic antidepressants, opiates, benzodiazepines and sedatives are also known to cause clouded thinking and difficulty with memory and recall in some people.

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