Utopia Holistic Health and Holidays July 2017 | Page 13

"OUR BRAINS ARE VERY SENSITIVE
AND REQUIRE CERTAIN IMPORTANT
CONDITIONS TO FUNCTION
EFFICIENTLY"
These symptoms can result from lack of sleep, stress, inflammation, fluctuating
blood sugar levels, alcohol, and lack of availability of certain vitamins and proteins.
Our brain is one of the most metabolically active tissues
in the body and need lots of energy. There are many
things we can do to help provide the ideal conditions for
our brain so that it can perform more efficiently. As with
all high performing engines they need the best and
cleanest fuel. Our brains need protein and a stable blood
sugar level.
Sugar and refined carbohydrates cause energy
fluctuations and although initially make us feel energised
can cause a drop our blood sugar levels and hence our
energy 2 hours later leaving us feeling mentally in a
slump so a good quality breakfast combining complex
carbohydrates and protein will provide a constant source
of morning energy to get us through until lunch.
An easily diges ted and absorbed protein powder is a
good clean option. Even better if it is fermented and
provides the benefits of extra healthy bacteria. A
deficiency in omega 3 fatty acids can cause inflammation
and reduces the function of the receptors that respond to
our happy and brain focussing neurotransmitters;
serotonin and dopamine.
Sleep is also crucial and hence its deprivation is a very
powerful torture technique. (Just ask any parent of a
new baby). Adults need at least 7 hours a night to
function optimally. Other factors that can cause brain
fog are hormonal imbalances.
Thyroid and adrenal hormones control physical and
mental energy levels, disruptions of these can cause
fluctuations in mood and reduce the ability to
concentrate. It is worth having these levels checked
with a blood test to ensure they aren’t contributing to
the problem.
Life is stressful for most of us now and having a brain
that is not functioning well just makes things harder. By
adopting a few simple lifestyle strategies; good nutrition,
getting enough sleep, addressing stress, balancing any
hormonal problems, taking probiotics and keeping food
intolerances well managed we can enjoy better mental
wellbeing.