By Dr. Amy Davis, MD
I commonly hear these concerns from patients: “I can’t focus”, “I am so forgetful”, “I have brain frog”. If you are one of those people be assured there are solutions for you. Functional Medicine is perfect in this situation because it addresses the root cause of symptoms and can improve your brain health. Your brain is connected with everything else in your body. Fixing your brain starts with fixing your body by optimizing the good stuff and taking out the bad. The brain is resilient and can heal when given the right conditions.
Why so many struggle with brain symptoms?
- Stress and Unhealthy Lifestyles frequently leads to self-medicating with caffeine, sugar, and alcohol to compensate.
- Diet choices impact the brain thus it is within our control to change. Sugar, artificial sweeteners, additives and preservatives are detrimental to the brain.
- Lack of adequate Sleep.
- Inflammation from Allergens.
- Environmental Toxins like heavy metals (mercury, aluminum, lead), pesticides, and pollutants.
- Overuse of alcohol and drugs.
What can you do?
- Eat real healthy foods – whole fresh, organic, locally grown, unprocessed food. If it has a label, it likely has added unhealthy ingredients.
- Eat a rainbow of foods every day – two of each color per day will provide the phytonutrients needed for optimal brain health. Think blueberries and green leafy vegetables.
- Support your gut health with greens, fiber, digestive enzymes and probiotics.
- Eat plenty of Healthy Fats – Omega 3 Fish Oil, coconut oil, olive oil and avocados.
- Optimize Protein – about 30 grams per day – eat protein at every meal.
- Stop insulting your brain with excitotoxins – Sugar, high fructose corn syrup, additives, preservatives, MSG and food dyes.
- Breathe – make a practice of deep breathing every day.
- Supplement with quality multivitamins, Vitamin D, Omega 3 fish oils, Magnesium, B vitamins and probiotics. Quality ingredients are important to get the best results.
- Exercise at least 3-5 times per week.
- Find a balance between work and play. Take time to relax, laugh and enjoy life.
If you continue to struggle with brain related symptoms consider further Functional Medicine evaluation for hidden food allergies, microbiome imbalances or toxins.
We are accepting new patients and do not require a membership to be seen.
Best of Health to You!
Dr. Amy Davis M.D.
Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner
Crossing Back to Health
11477 Olde Cabin Rd. Suite 100
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Phone: 636 778-9158
Website: www.crossingbacktohealth.com
Online store: XB2H.com