Brain Fog & Why It Affects So Many of Us

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have reported experiencing a range of cognitive symptoms that have been collectively referred to as "brain fog."  While research suggests this can be a cognitive symptoms caused by the virus itself, another possible reason for the increase in brain fog during this time is the stress and anxiety that many people have experienced as a result of the global outbreak and resulting disruptions to daily life.  From the constant negative news cycle to home-schooling,  job loss, social isolation, and concerns about health and safety, which can lead to feeling overwhelmed and experiencing brain fog. 

In addition, the pandemic has brought about changes in daily routines and lifestyle habits, such as increased screen time, disrupted sleep patterns, and changes in physical activity and nutrition. These changes can all contribute to brain fog and cognitive decline. For example, spending more time mindlessly scrolling on our screens can lead to eye strain and fatigue, while binge watching our favourite series usually leads to disrupted sleep patterns that  can impair cognitive function.

What is Brain Fog?

Brain fog is a condition characterised by a feeling of mental confusion or lack of mental clarity. Symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and difficulty with language or decision-making. 

Many people who experience brain fog report feeling as if their thinking is "cloudy" or "fuzzy," which can make it difficult to focus and complete even simple tasks. The condition is often associated with fatigue, stress, and lack of sleep.

Causes of Brain Fog

There are a variety of potential causes for brain fog, including poor nutrition, lack of sleep, stress, and certain medical conditions such as fibromyalgia and depression. It is also very common during peri-menopause and menopause as dropping oestrogen levels impact our brains, often causing that sense of fogginess in our thoughts or forgetfulness. 

Solutions To Managing Brain Fog

While there is no miracle quick cure, there are a number of solutions that may help alleviate symptoms of brain fog and many of them are easy to implement and free of charge.  It will often depend on the root cause, so it is important to identify the likely cause of your brain fog as much as possible. 

Some simple solutions that you can begin implement into your life include:

• Managing stress: Stress can contribute to brain fog. Try stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Getting enough sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining cognitive function. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. 
• Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide the brain with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks, which can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels and lead to brain fog.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve blood flow to the brain and reduce stress.
• Supplements: Some supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, ginkgo biloba, and B vitamins have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: For women experiencing brain fog during peri-menopause and menopause, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may be an option. HRT can help restore normal levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which can help alleviate brain fog and other symptoms. Your healthcare provider will be able to help you learn more about this. 
• Better Boundaries; Saying 'yes' to every request if you are already juggling a lot, is only going to increase your likelihood of suffering from brain fog.  The more overwhelmed we are with tasks, the higher the mental load and number of things we have to remember.  It's ok - and even important for your well-being - to say 'no' to new requests when your plate is already full. 
• Cognitive therapy: In some cases, brain fog may be related to an underlying mental health condition such as depression or anxiety. Cognitive therapy can help individuals identify and address any negative thought patterns that may be contributing to their brain fog.

It is important to note that brain fog can have different causes, so the solutions may vary depending on the underlying cause. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. 

 As with all conditions, If you are experiencing persistent brain fog that affects your day to day life, it is recommended to speak to your medical provider. 

Share This Article

We are living in challenging times and anxiety and stress levels have increased for many of us.   Using the tools above to help with brain fog can make a big difference and remind us that we have more control over our well-being than we often realise.  Simple lifestyle changes are a great place to start. 

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