It happens to all of us: we very purposefully walk into a room with the intention of doing something important, but when we get there, we completely forgot what it was. If it’s an occasional thing, just chalk it up to a random misfire in your neurons. But when this becomes a common occurrence, there might be a deeper problem at play. Ask yourself a few questions to be sure: Do you have trouble following a conversation for more than a few minutes? Do you have trouble comprehending what you’re reading? Do you simply not remember things? Do you have trouble focusing for extended periods of time? These can be extremely frustrating experiences. It will make you feel like you’re losing your mind! Thankfully, brain fog is the result of outside factors and it can be reversed. What causes brain fog? There are several causes, and it’s often the result of a combination of things, or even a self-fulfilling cycle of issues that cause other issues that reinforce the initial issue.

• Lack of sleep – Your brain needs some time off to function at it’s best, much like your body. Perhaps you have a sleep disorder that you’re not addressing. Or perhaps you’re under a lot of pressure between work and family. Which leads to the next common cause of brain fog.
• Stress – Life can be stressful, and our bodies are equipped to handle it in reasonable doses. But in today’s busy world, it’s common for stress to become chronic and intense. Stress not only has such unpleasant side effects as causing weight gain and lowering immunity, it is a major contributor to brain fog.
• Neurological dysfunction – Our brain is a part of the larger nervous system, which includes the spinal cord and a massive peripheral network of nerves. Neurological disorders like lupus and multiple sclerosis often cause brain fog, as does poor communication between the brain and other parts of the body. This is often caused by subluxation of the spine when vertebrae become misaligned.
• Nutritional deficiencies – Your brain requires a multitude of raw material to function. Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Iron, Vitamin B12, Proteins and amino acids to name a few. Without these nutrients, chemistry takes its course and the system simply doesn’t function as it should.
• Medication side effects – It’s surprising which extremely common medications can lead to brain fog. Over the counter drugs like ibuprofen and allergy medication are common causes, as are prescriptions such as blood pressure medication.

Making brain fog a thing of the past Reversing brain fog can simply be a matter of removing or remedying the root causes. In some cases, it’s rather self-explanatory—though often easier said than done. Included are some tips to help you attack the problem productively.

• Get more sleep – Many of you are thinking: “yeah right, with my busy schedule?” The first step is to make it a priority. Beyond that, there are some things you can do, such as switching off your electronics at bedtime. Don’t fall asleep to the TV, for example. You can also turn down the temperature. We tend to sleep easier and more deeply in a slightly colder environment than we would be comfortable awake. The optimal temperature is around 65F/18C.
• Reduce stress – There are plenty of ways to do this, even if you have a high-pressure job and a family. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. It simply makes your body stronger and allows you to release energy and emotions that build up as a result of stress. Meditating is also a proven stress reducer. Also, just do things you enjoy! Are you a weekend painter? Do you like romance novels? Do you play pool? It doesn’t matter, if you enjoy it, just doing will lower your stress.
• Get adjusted – Regular visits to the chiropractor is the best way to maintain neurological health. With you spine aligned, your brain and the body’s many systems—hormonal, immunity, oxygen distribution, nutrient distribution, digestion, etc.—can communicate and operate at peak levels. Your brain needs those signals. Get adjusted.
• Eat well – This one can be difficult for many reasons. We are often fighting ingrained habits. We often simply don’t know how to eat well. Consult a nutritionist if you’re unsure, or test your levels. As a good rule of thumb, make sure to include plenty of vegetables, particularly dark, leafy greens. Reduce sugar as much as possible and drink lots and lots of water.
• Get off your medications – To some, this seems like a pipe dream. But you can do it! We see it all the time. People commit to a detox, cellular healing and adjustment program and they are often completely floored when they realize they don’t need to manage their pain, or their allergies or their high blood pressure because these issues just disappear.

Brain fog is, in most cases, completely treatable and permanently reversible. Don’t stress that you’re losing your mind. Just change your habits, orient yourself toward health and you will be purposefully walking into rooms and remembering why before you know it.