To protect your brain against cognitive decline, you might typically consider cultivating brain healthy habits such as continued learning to keep your mind sharp. Or you might focus on lifestyle factors like consuming a healthy whole-food diet, getting regular exercise, pursuing hobbies and interests, or ensuring you consistently get quality sleep.
You might also avoid potentially harmful behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption or participating in high-risk sports activities like skiing or sky diving. Here’s another, unexpected risk factor for cognitive impairment to consider: surgery.
Research indicates that 25% of patients over 75 undergoing a major surgery will experience significant cognitive decline—and half will suffer lasting brain damage.
That’s right, surgery. When you go under the knife and are anesthetized, you are putting your brain function at risk. This is especially true for senior populations. Research published in Clinical Interventions in Aging indicates that 25% of patients over 75 undergoing major surgery will experience significant cognitive decline—and half will suffer lasting brain damage, There’s even a name for this phenomenon: postoperative cognitive dysfunction, also called postoperative cognitive decline (POCD).
Here’s what you need to know about how “going under” affects your brain, and what you can do to protect against POCD.
ABOUT POSTOPERATIVE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION
Adverse impacts to the brain post-surgery is not exactly new. Evidence of what we call POCD today dates back to 1887 when the BMJ published a piece about cases of delirium following surgery and anesthesia. While separate conditions, researchers see a close relationship between postoperative delirium and POCD resulting from surgery and anesthesia.
Today, research has a much clearer understanding of postsurgical cognitive decline, although many questions remain. A patient is diagnosed with POCD when deficits are observed in one or more areas of cognition, such as attention, focus/concentration, executive function, memory, visuospatial ability, and psychomotor speed. This condition will usually develop over a period of more than a week or month and lasts for an extended period—sometimes permanently. The consequences can be great. Patients with POCD are at risk of losing their jobs, their independence, and their basic quality of life.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR POSTOPERATIVE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION?
Serious Implications for Seniors: Considering that there are more than 230 million operations performed using anesthesia worldwide each year, and seniors (over 65) make up a majority of those requiring surgeries, millions of elderly patients are potentially at risk.
Affects Young Children: POCD can affect young children as well. A study published in Pediatrics found that children who underwent general anesthesia under the age of 4 later showed lower IQ scores, diminished language comprehension, and lower gray matter volume in their brains.
Higher Incidence Among Cardiac Surgery Patients: While scientists are still struggling to understand why, there’s clearly a higher incidence of COPD among patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Cognitive decline lasting up to 6 months post-surgery occurs in 20–30% of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, and lasting POCD of 12 months or more occurs in 15–25% of cardiac patients, according to a 2019 review study.Other Risk Factors: In addition to old age and cardiac disease being risk factors, those with pre-existing cognitive health issues, alcohol abuse, vascular disease, low level of education, and postsurgical complications are all at greater risk of developing POCD, studies have found.
Interestingly, the education level risk factor has to do with cognitive reserve, which is the term used for the known linkage between a lower education level and increased risk of cognitive impairment in older age. Those with more education have greater cognitive reserve and a more cognitively resilient post-surgery.
Diminished Blood Flow: A pre-and post-op SPECT study of patients who underwent coronary bypass surgery showed that 68% had diminished blood flow, which was linked to cognitive dysfunction—specifically, decreased verbal and visual memory six months later.
Of course, low blood flow is a risk factor for a number of brain health issues. Reduced blood flow on SPECT scans has been associated with depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, and more. Decreased cerebral blood flow is the #1 brain imaging predictor that a person will develop Alzheimer’s disease.
WHAT CAUSES POSTSURGICAL COGNITIVE DECLINE?
Scientists are still trying to understand what factors into the cognitive decline that some patients experience after surgery with anesthesia. Currently, experts believe that POCD is the result of the stress and inflammation triggered by surgery and anesthesia on sensitive, high-risk brains.
Major surgeries can unleash a firestorm of inflammation. The brain contains the largest density of inflammatory receptors in the body, which makes it especially vulnerable to the effects of inflammation. When there is neuroinflammation, sensitive regions can get damaged. Studies involving brain-imaging scans have shown that the hippocampus, which plays a key role in memory, had reduced volume in some patients with POCD.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO AVOID POCD
If you are anticipating surgery, discuss your POCD concerns with your medical doctor.
A shorter duration of exposure to anesthesia can also diminish the risk of POCD, as can reduce exposure to certain medications.
Of course, one of the best things you can do is to develop brain-healthy habits before and after surgery, such as:
Eat plenty of brain healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Avoid inflammatory foods such as refined carbohydrates, sugar, fried foods, and excessive alcohol.
Ensure you get plenty of restorative sleep, which your brain needs to function optimally.
Exercise regularly (only when you are able to post-surgery), especially brain-boosting exercise.
Engage in some type of stress-reducing activity like meditation or yoga.
Practice new learning to keep your brain strong.
What you do each day has a huge impact on your brain, and a strong brain is your best insurance against lasting post-surgical cognitive dysfunction.
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction and other brain health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. We’ve come a long way since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in 2020. However, the far-reaching impact of the virus on health among survivors is only beginning to be understood. For an estimated 37% of Americans who survived acute infection—including mild and asymptomatic cases—the impacts of COVID continue as they experience new and returning health issues weeks, months, and sometimes years after the infection has passed. Commonly called long COVID, the symptoms can be life-altering.
Cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog” is often the most common issue after fatigue and affects roughly 70% of those with long COVID.
Although it’s well-known that COVID attacks the respiratory system, it may be a surprise to learn that COVID also impacts the brain and nervous system. In fact, researchers have noted a number of changes to the brain and nervous system post-infection that are likely contributing to a cluster of symptoms called “brain fog.”
WHAT IS COVID BRAIN FOG?
COVID brain fog refers to the slower thinking or mental processing, confusion, memory issues, difficulty with concentration and focus, and overall compromised cognition present in long COVID patients. It has been difficult for scientists to accurately assess its prevalence, but one of the most recent studies on the subject titled “Cognitive and Memory Deficits in Long COVID” states that cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog” is often the most common issue after fatigue and affects roughly 70% of those with long COVID.
Here’s what we know about the effects of long COVID on your brain, and more importantly, what can be done to minimize brain fog.
HOW COVID AFFECTS THE BRAIN
Medical researchers have been studying long COVID since 2020 in an effort to understand more clearly how the virus continues to impact overall health. Some recent studies have documented several changes in the brains of COVID patients after acute infection—as well as evidence of immune and inflammatory responses in the nervous system that likely impact cognition.
It is believed that the COVID-19 virus crosses the blood-brain barrier by entering the nasal passage and traveling up the olfactory nerve directly to the brain where it can cause neural damage. One of the largest COVID-19 brain imaging studies to date reveals a number of brain-related changes that provide possible explanations for brain fog and compromised cognition. Comparing before and after COVID infection brain scans, the study revealed several changes:
Loss of gray matter thickness in areas related to smell
Tissue damage in areas that are connected to the primary olfactory cortex (also linked to smell)
Reduction of whole brain volume
Atrophy of a specific part of the brain’s cerebellum, which is linked to cognition
In all, researchers noted that the reductions ranged from .2 to 2%. That doesn’t sound like much, but some experts estimate that a 2% reduction in brain volume is equivalent to 10 years of aging!
Indeed, a March 2022 JAMA Neurology cohort study that followed the one-year trajectory of older (60 years and older) COVID-19 survivors concluded that “COVID-19 survival was associated with an increase in the risk of longitudinal cognitive decline.”
A recent report documented research presented at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) annual meeting held in May 2022. The research found that people who had mild cases of COVID-19 and experienced persistent cognitive issues had higher levels of immune activation and immunovascular markers in their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) nearly a year after acute infection.
Dr. Joanna Hellmuth of the University of California, San Francisco, who headed the study, suggested that the findings imply that ongoing vascular injury/repair in the brain may trigger the overactive immune response and inflammation, which may be driving cognitive changes and the brain fog experienced in long COVID.
Interestingly, it’s noted that the same researchers, in published findings from earlier in 2022, found abnormalities in the CSF of a whopping 77% of patients with cognitive impairment post-COVID.
At Amen Clinics, before-and-after COVID brain scans show increased activity in the limbic system in COVID survivors. Overactivity in this region is associated with depression, which causes a range of symptoms including brain fog.
THERAPIES FOR COVID BRAIN FOG
Living with forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, and slower processing of information is difficult. There are a couple of therapies being used to address cognitive dysfunction resulting from long COVID. It’s not clear if these therapies are now widely available, but if you suffer from brain fog, it is worth investigating them.
The first therapy is called non-invasive brain microcurrent stimulation therapy. In one recent study, German researchers applied alternating current stimulation to the eyes and brain. They also completed cognitive assessments before and after the therapy and found markedly improved cognition—as much as 40-60% in one patient.
Another strategy involves a certain type of learning therapy, according to a news report. The patient repeats information a certain number of times without error, which helps the brain to rebuild its memory skills that were compromised by the infection. The therapy makes use of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to grow and strengthen its neural networks, which is kind of like working muscles in the body.
In addition to specific therapies to improve cognition, it is important to take a whole-person approach to treat COVID brain fog. Brain SPECT imaging, neuropsychological testing, lab work, and lifestyle changes are critical pieces of a cognitive function or memory evaluation.
7 WAYS TO REDUCE INFLAMMATION AND BRAIN FOG
Since inflammation is so closely associated with long COVID symptoms and brain fog, in particular, taking steps to quell the inflammation in your body may help to promote healing and reduce brain fog. Here are 7 ways to reduce inflammation:
Eat lots of prebiotic foods such as apples, unripe bananas, beans, cabbage, artichokes, asparagus, and root vegetables. Prebiotic foods help to feed the good bacteria in your gut, which supports a healthy microbiome. A leaky gut, or a porous lining in your gastrointestinal tract, can increase inflammation in the body. Also, your gut is lined with neurons that communicate with your brain. Consuming prebiotics helps to support a healthy gut-brain connection.
To further promote gut health, increase your consumption of probiotics by taking supplements or enjoying probiotic-rich fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi, kombucha tea, and pickled fruits and veggies.
Get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet by consuming fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herring, or with a quality omega-3 supplement. Your brain needs the DHA and EPA found in the fish oil to fuel neuroplasticity. These fats also help to quell inflammation in the body as they allow cells to work more efficiently.
Avoid consuming foods that increase inflammation such as alcohol, sugar and refined grains, processed meats, and unhealthy fats (saturated or trans-fats).
Floss and brush daily. You must take good care of your gums. Gum disease can increase inflammation.
Promote calm in your life by taking downtime, practicing mindfulness, meditation, prayer, and spending time in nature. It’s essential to keep stress levels down as stress is inflammatory.
Exercise daily, but not too much. Regular exercise is excellent for the brain but too much can increase inflammation.
Although more will be discovered as researchers continue to learn more about how COVID affects the brain, taking any of these actions now will help to support your brain health and cognition.
Brain fog, memory issues, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Americans are struggling with depression in greater numbers than ever before—roughly one in three of U.S. adults are experiencing depressive symptoms, up nearly three-fold since before the pandemic. If you have been seeking treatment for depression unsuccessfully, it may be time to look at a surprising underlying cause: inflammation.
If you have been seeking treatment for depression unsuccessfully, it may be time to look at a surprising underlying cause: inflammation.
Most people are aware that chronic inflammation has been linked to a host of serious physical ailments such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis, pain syndromes, and gastrointestinal disorders. However, research is revealing that inflammation might be a contributing factor in a number of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression.
The word inflammation comes from the Latin word inflammare, which means “to set on fire.” When inflammation is no longer a healthy immune response to an injury or foreign invaders, such as a splinter, virus, or bacterial infection, but instead becomes chronic, it’s like having a steady low-level fire throughout your body causing damage to organs and tissue—and that includes your brain.
In addition to depression, chronic inflammation has been shown to be associated with a wide range of neurological and psychiatric illnesses, such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, personality disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
WHAT IS CHRONIC INFLAMMATION?
Inflammation plays a critical role in your immune system. When your body detects an injury or invading microbe, your immune system sends out its “first responders” or inflammatory cells and cytokines (substances that stimulate more inflammatory cells). This inflammatory response traps microbial invaders and other offending agents or starts healing injured tissue. Usually, after a few hours or a few days, the immune response downshifts back to neutral, and the inflammation subsides.
In some people, however, the inflammatory response doesn’t turn off—or it mistakes healthy tissue for a foreign invader and begins attacking it (an autoimmune response). This can lead to chronic inflammation.
There are a host of diet and lifestyle factors that can stoke the flames of inflammation. For example, a pro-inflammatory diet with too much sugar, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, too much omega-6 fats and not enough omega-3s, alcohol consumption, artificial sweeteners, fried foods, and chemicals can lead to chronic inflammation. Also, low vitamin D, exposure to environmental toxins, sleeplessness, chronic stress, childhood trauma, obesity, gum disease, prediabetes and diabetes, too much strenuous exercise, and smoking are some additional contributing factors.
THE LINK BETWEEN INFLAMMATION AND DEPRESSION
The link between systemic inflammation and depression is not exactly new.For example, it has been known for quite some time that depression is a side effect of drugs that purposefully increase inflammation, such as vaccinations or interferon that is used to treat hepatitis or certain types of cancer.
Conversely, some anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, and nutraceuticals, such as omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin, have been found to decrease depression in people who have evidence of persistent inflammation.
That said, in recent years, compelling research is providing more insight into how inflammation interacts with the brain, affecting mood.
Lack of motivation and the inability to feel pleasure often go hand and hand with depression. Those with major depressive disorder may find it hard to feel motivated to do anything at all. Because biomarkers of inflammation are reliably elevated in depressed patients, one study administered inflammatory stimuli in healthy subjects to see how it affected neural activity and dopamine release in the reward-related regions of the brain. The results showed reduced neural activity (low motivation) is associated with inflammatory biomarkers.
Similarly, another study showed an association between inflammation and the activation of parts of the brain that feel social rejection, fear, and threats.
One review study titled “Inflamed Moods: A Review of the Interactions Between Inflammation and Mood Disorders” found that pro-inflammatory cytokines had direct effects on levels of important mood neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (typical in major depressive disorder), central nervous system function, impaired neuroplasticity, as well as structural and functional brain changes. Yet, more hopefully, the same review study noted that anti-inflammatory supplements (curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids) showed improved outcomes in mood disorder patients when used as an adjunct to conventional therapy, and it recommended further research.
HOW TO CALM INFLAMMATION AND BOOST MOOD
For many people who are experiencing depression, this link between inflammation and depression offers hope. Taking steps to ensure your body’s inflammation levels are in a healthy range could potentially help your mood. Here are 6 steps you can begin taking today.
1. Take a quality omega-3 supplement.
You can ask to get your omega-3 fatty acid levels checked at your next doctor’s visit with a simple blood test. Most people are deficient. A quality fish oil supplement will usually contain high levels of EPA and DHA. Studies show that having low levels of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in your bloodstream is associated with inflammation. Research additionally shows that low levels of EPA and DHA are also linked to depression.
2. Improve your gut health.
Did you know that your gastrointestinal tract is lined with about 100 million neurons? It is, and they are in constant communication with your brain. It’s important to limit foods that disrupt your microbiome and cause inflammation as a result. Abstain from the inflammatory foods mentioned above and eat more fermented foods, which help to improve gut health and quell inflammation, as well as prebiotic foods (the foods that feed healthy gut microflora) such as garlic, leeks, onions, asparagus, bananas, and barley. Enjoy a diet filled with colorful organic fresh fruits (especially berries) and vegetables, lean antibiotic-free, grass-fed meats, healthy fats (from fish, avocado, nuts, and seeds), and low-glycemic carbs, such as sweet potatoes, legumes, and quinoa.
3. Reduce stress with relaxation.
Chronic stress causes inflammation in the body. Exercise, yoga, diaphragmatic breathing, hypnosis, and meditation have all been shown to reduce stress levels. Find something you enjoy and will do regularly to help you relax.
4. Practice good dental hygiene.
Surprisingly, gum or periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition, is linked to depression, according to research. Be sure you are brushing twice a day, flossing, and seeing the dentist for cleanings twice a year.
5. Get quality sleep.
Insomnia is linked to higher inflammation levels. Do everything you can to ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Turn digital devices off an hour before bedtime, limit caffeine and alcohol intake (which can disrupt sleep), and have a calming routine before bed.
6. Reduce exposure to environmental toxins.
Environmental toxins are linked to inflammation. Avoid artificial sweeteners, dyes, and produce grown with pesticides. Use household cleaners that have fewer chemicals. Switch to personal care products without harsh chemicals, and that includes makeup!
Taking even a few of these steps can go a long way in calming the low-burning flame of inflammation, helping you to feel better mentally and emotionally.
Depression and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most dreaded ailments. It robs us of the memories of our life’s joys, accomplishments, hurts, and lessons learned—the very things that make up the essence of who we are. When our memory is damaged by Alzheimer’s, it diminishes our ability to make sense of the world, creates a disconnect with loved ones, hijacks our independence, and ultimately steals our life. It’s utterly heartbreaking.
Many people believe Alzheimer’s disease is inevitable or that it strikes randomly without warning. It’s common for medical professionals to tell their patients who are complaining about forgetfulness that age-related memory loss is normal. And the vast majority of us believe there is nothing we can do to prevent Alzheimer’s disease or to stop it from deteriorating further.
That’s wrong!
The truth is, Alzheimer’s is a lifestyle disease—similar to heart disease or type 2 diabetes—and your everyday habits contribute greatly to your level of risk. New research confirms this.
The truth is, Alzheimer’s is a lifestyle disease—similar to heart disease and type 2 diabetes—and your everyday habits contribute greatly to your level of risk.
11 Lifestyle Factors that Increase the Risk for Alzheimer’s
Currently, over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and that number is expected to triple by 2050. If you don’t want to be one of them, you need to know the 11 major risk factors of memory loss. The lifestyle factors that contribute to a heightened risk for Alzheimer’s disease can be summed up with the mnemonic BRIGHT MINDS. Here’s what each letter stands for.
B is for blood flow problems.
Healthy blood flow is essential for a good memory. The brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics shows that low blood flow is the #1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer’s.
R is for retirement and aging.
Advancing age is the strongest risk factor for memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Brain SPECT imaging shows that the activity in the brain generally decreases with age.
I is for Inflammation.
Smoking, eating a high-sugar diet, and carrying excess body fat are associated with chronic inflammation that can harm the brain and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
G is for genetics.
Having first-degree family members with Alzheimer’s can be a sign that you need to make serious lifestyle changes to protect your memory.
H is for head trauma.
Several studies show a link between traumatic brain injuries or repeated mild head trauma (like repetitive helmet-to-helmet tackles in football) and the risk for dementia.
T is for toxins.
Toxic substances, such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and drugs are associated with memory issues.
In a 2016 editorial in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 33 scientists expressed concern that infectious diseases were being overlooked as a major cause of memory problems and dementia.
N is for neurohormone problems.
When hormones are out of balance, it creates an increased risk for illness, including Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and more.
D is for diabesity.
The unhealthy combination of obesity and diabetes seriously impacts brain health and memory. Research in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease has linked abnormal insulin levels, which are a hallmark of diabetes, to Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. The correlation is so strong, some scientists have labeled Alzheimer’s “type 3 diabetes.”
S is for sleep issues.
A growing body of research links sleep problems, such as insomnia and sleep apnea, to a higher risk of memory problems and dementia.
The Link Between ADHD and Alzheimer’s Disease
As mentioned above, mental health issues increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. New research sheds light on the link between ADHD and the disease. A 2021 multi-generational study out of Sweden shows that the grandparents and parents of those with ADHD are more likely to have Alzheimer’s disease compared with older people who have no ADHD relatives. And the increase in risk is substantial. Parents of a child with ADHD have a 55% greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and grandparents of ADHD kids have an 11% increased risk of the disease.
The study doesn’t show that ADHD causes Alzheimer’s. However, it’s important to look at how ADHD makes people more vulnerable to lifestyle risk factors for memory loss. Many of the symptoms of ADHD—including short attention span, impulsivity, distractibility, disorganization, and procrastination—lead to poor decision-making and increase the vulnerability to lifestyle risk factors for memory issues.
People with ADHD are at greater risk for traumatic brain injuries, obesity, substance abuse, and smoking. In turn, these lifestyle factors increase the chances of developing some form of dementia.
Know the Side Effects of Not Treating Mental Illness
Some people are wary of treating psychiatric issues with medication due to possible side effects. This is a valid concern, and it’s generally a good idea to try the least toxic, most effective solutions for any mental health problem. However, it’s equally important to understand that not treating mental illness also comes with side effects. In some cases, those potential side effects include an increased risk for memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. That is too high a price to pay.
Memory loss, ADD/ADHD, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples.Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Depression hurts, not just emotionally but also physically. Sure, we’re all aware of the psychological pain associated with low moods, loss of pleasure, and hopelessness, but that’s only the beginning. When major depressive disorder goes untreated, it can also have devastating effects on your physical health. Here are 8 physical consequences associated with depression and the devastating toll they can take.
Depression hurts, not just emotionally but also physically. The psychological pain associated with low moods is only the beginning. When depression goes untreated, it can also have devastating effects on your physical health.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute writes that adults who have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder or who have symptoms of depression are 64% more likely to develop coronary artery disease. Even more worrisome, depressed people who have heart disease are 59% more likely to have a heart attack or die from a cardiac incident. One study presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 66th Annual Scientific Sessions in 2017 showed that heart disease patients who are diagnosed with depressive disorder are twice as likely to die compared to non-depressed patients. In fact, depression was the most significant predictor of death in heart disease patients, according to the study.
2. Chronic pain.
Depression can make your body feel pain more acutely. A wealth of research, including findings in a 2016 paper in the Journal of Pain, has shown that depression is associated with increased pain sensitivity. This can lead to chronic aches and pains that may not dissipate with treatment. The relationship between the mood disorder and pain goes both ways, as they negatively influence the other. Being both chronically achy and depressed is associated with a litany of other detrimental physical and psychological issues.
3. Migraine headaches.
Unfortunately, depression and migraine headaches tend to go together. In a 2016 study in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, researchers found that being diagnosed with major depressive disorder significantly heightened the risk of having migraine headaches. Additionally, the researchers concluded that the more severe the depression, the more likely people are to suffer from migraines.
4. Impaired endothelial function.
Depression, especially when it’s combined with everyday stressors, has a negative impact on blood vessels. According to a 2019 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association, people with a mood disorder who reported stress experienced greater impairments in endothelial function compared with people who aren’t depressed. Why is endothelial function so important? The endothelium is a small layer of cells within blood vessels of the heart that is responsible for their dilation and constriction. Endothelial dysfunction causes the heart’s blood vessels to constrict rather than dilate, which can be a predictor of stroke or heart attack.
5. Weight changes.
Both weight gain and weight loss are associated with depressive disorder. For example, about 43% of people with depression are obese, and being diagnosed with a mood disorder increases the chances of becoming obese, according to the CDC. People with depression may use food to cope with feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. This can lead to extra pounds that further negatively impact physical health by increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, arthritis, and more. In other people, depression can reduce appetite and lead to weight loss. In part, weight loss may be due to depressive symptoms like low energy, lack of motivation, and loss of pleasure. You may not have the energy to prepare healthy meals, or you may no longer have a zest for cooking even though you used to enjoy it.
A brain imaging study in The American Journal of Psychiatry looked at brain activity in depressed people with increased or decreased appetite as well as a healthy control group while they viewed photos of food and non-food items. Depressed people with increased appetite had heightened activity in the brain’s reward centers while those with decreased appetite had reduced activity in an area of the brain involved in interoception (the ability to understand and respond to the body’s internal signals). The differences in brain activity in this study underscore the concept that depression is not just one thing.
6. Nutritional deficiencies.
Whether you have a reduced appetite and aren’t eating enough or you’re filling up on sweets to ease emotional pain, you may not be getting adequate nutrition. Research shows that nutrient deficiencies commonly seen in people with depression include low levels of vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, folate, amino acids, and magnesium. Such nutritional deficiencies are associated with a number of physical health risks.
7. Inflammation.
Decades of scientific research point to an association between depression inflammation. However, mounting evidence suggests that depression is not an inflammatory disease, and not every person with the mood disorder experiences high levels of inflammation. When inflammation does strike, it can increase the risk for serious diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
8. Early death.
Sadly, having depression raises mortality risk. A 2014 meta-analysis of 293 studies found that having depression is linked to a 50% increased risk of death. Among people with depressive disorder, mortality may be related to associated chronic health issues or suicide. Statistics show that half of all deaths by suicide are associated with depression and other mood disorders.
Overcoming Depression to Improve Physical Health
Clearly, untreated depression puts you at risk for a wide range of unwanted physical health issues. Treating depressive disorder can put you on a path to healing not only emotional pain but also physical problems. Take note that when it comes to depression treatment, one size does NOT fit all. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of depression and anxiety and knowing your type is the key to getting a treatment plan that is targeted to your needs. Medication isn’t the only option, and there are many effective alternatives to antidepressants.
Depression and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples.Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Are you struggling with the effects of a head injury, mental health conditions, cognitive issues, memory problems, or symptoms of long-haul COVID? There’s a natural brain rescue solution that may help—hyperbaric oxygen therapy. A 2021 review in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease analyzed results from 391 research studies on HBOT for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The authors concluded that “based on the outcomes of clinical and experimental studies, this review advocates the use of HBOT for the treatment of AD.” Clinical trials are underway to assess the effectiveness of HBOT for the treatment of long-haul COVID. The healing power of HBOT can be effective in a variety of other ways too.
Are you struggling with the effects of a head injury, mental health conditions, cognitive issues, memory problems, or symptoms of long-haul COVID? There’s a natural brain rescue solution that may help—hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a non-invasive therapy in which you breathe 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. With HBOT, your lungs can take in up to 3 times more oxygen than they do when breathing at normal air pressure. This is beneficial for the treatment of injuries because your brain and body need higher amounts of oxygen to heal damaged tissue. The increased oxygen from HBOT is transported to the brain and body via the bloodstream to accelerate the healing process.
HBOT FOR BRAIN RESCUE
Brain rescue in the time of COVID is based on one simple idea. If you want to keep your brain healthy or rescue it if it’s headed to a dark place, you need to prevent or treat the 11 major risk factors that steal your mind. What’s exciting is that HBOT has shown benefits for all of these risk factors, which are easy to remember with the mnemonic BRIGHT MINDS.
B is for blood flow.
Low blood flow is the #1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also associated with depression, ADD/ADHD, schizophrenia, and alcohol abuse. Anything that negatively impacts blood flow is bad for the brain. For example, if you have hypertension, as blood pressure goes up, blood flow to the brain goes down. A study in the Journal of Neurotrauma on 16 military personnel showed that blood flow increased after one single hyperbaric session, and it went up significantly after 40 sessions.
R is for retirement and aging.
Think about how your face ages—a few wrinkles when you’re 55 and a whole bunch more by the time you’re 85. That same process is happening in your brain, but it doesn’t have to. HBOT has been shown to reverse aging in a 2020 study from Israel in the journal Aging.
I is for inflammation.
When you have chronic inflammation in your body, it’s like you have a low-level fire destroying your organs. Inflammation is associated with depression, Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and more. A number of studies point to the anti-inflammatory properties of HBOT.
G is for genetics.
Genes are not a death sentence, they are a wake-up call. If you have one or more family members with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you’re at a higher risk of losing your mind. Look at Chalene Johnson, who has a family history of Alzheimer’s disease. When she had her brain scanned at Amen Clinics, her SPECT scan showed decreased activity in multiple areas, including the parietal lobe, meaning her brain was already headed to early Alzheimer’s disease. By doing HBOT, her brain improved as seen on a follow-up brain scan 2 years later.
H is for head trauma.
Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of psychiatric problems, but few people know it. The good news is that you can reverse the damage. If you put the brain in a healing environment, it can get better. That was the conclusion of a 2013 brain SPECT imaging study in Plos One on HBOT as a treatment for TBI. In this randomized prospective trial, 56 patients who were 1-5 years post-concussion did 40 sessions of HBOT. The results revealed improved cognitive function, attention, memory processing speed, and executive function, as well as enhanced quality of life, and better blood flow.
T is for toxins.
Most people know alcohol is not a health food. Many people don’t know marijuana is not innocuous. In an Amen Clinics brain imaging study on nearly 1,000 marijuana users, every area of the brain was lower compared to a healthy group. Other toxins that are harmful to brain health include smoking, mold exposure, carbon monoxide, cancer chemotherapy, radiation, and heavy metal exposure (mercury, lead, and aluminum). To decrease toxic load, limit your exposure to toxins and support the 4 organs of detoxification—kidneys, digestive system, skin, and liver. HBOT can help detoxify you as well.
M is for mental health.
Mental health issues, chronic stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADD/ADHD skyrocketed during the pandemic. Meet Doug, who struggled with anxiety, depression, and brain fog. His brain scan at Amen Clinics didn’t look healthy. On a treatment program including supplements and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, his brain scan looked much better 3 months later. In the 2013 brain SPECT imaging study in Plos One mentioned earlier, HBOT helped with mood and trauma.
I is for immunity and infections.
Some scary news has been emerging about the potential long-term impacts of COVID-19 on brain health. For example, a recent brain imaging study from a team of researchers in the United Kingdom found that the coronavirus may cause lasting loss of brain tissue. The researchers compared pre- and post-COVID brain scans in 394 people and detected a significant loss of gray matter in regions of the brain associated with smell and taste. Your best defense against COVID-19 is your immune system, and hyperbaric oxygen has been found to boost immunity.
N is for neurohormone deficiencies.
One of the things many people don’t realize is if you’ve had a traumatic brain injury, it often hurts the pituitary gland, which is involved in hormone production. It can actually turn off or turn down production. In a 2020 documentary called Quiet Explosions, HBOT and hormonal therapy are discussed as therapies for healing the brain.
D is for diabesity.
Having diabetes and obesity can be detrimental to brain health and puts you at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, depression, and other conditions. How can HBOT help? A 2015 study shows that hyperbaric oxygen can improve glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes.
S is for Sleep.
Did you know that 60 million Americans have sleep-related issues, such as chronic insomnia and sleep apnea? Sleep apnea makes your brain look like you have early Alzheimer’s disease. A growing body of research shows that HBOT improves oxygen saturation in sleep apnea as well as quality of sleep.
If you’re recovering from a concussion, struggling with memory problems or cognitive dysfunction, or dealing with mental health issues, don’t wait. Seeking a treatment plan that includes non-invasive, non-medication options such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be beneficial in the healing process.At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer HBOT, in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Most people equate chronic illnesses with the elderly, but a recent Harris Poll study reveals that 44% of millennials born between 1981-1988 have been diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition.
What’s really alarming is that 4 of the top 5 chronic health conditions (and 6 of the top 10) among millennials fall into the mental or behavioral health category, according to a study from Blue Cross Blue Shield. And the rates for these conditions are rising dramatically. That’s not even counting the increases so many people have experienced due to the pandemic.
It begs the question: What’s wrong with millennials?
What’s really alarming is that 4 of the top 5 chronic health conditions (and 6 of the top 10) among millennials fall into the mental or behavioral health category, according to a study from Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Millennials include those born between the years 1981-1996, but the BCBS study focused on older millennials (ages 34-36 in 2017). The findings are disturbing and show that adults in the age range are struggling. Here are the top 10 chronic conditions among older millennials with the mental and behavioral issues highlighted in bold.
*Note that psychotic conditions included a wide variety of disorders, including schizoid, delusional, paranoid, dissociative, personality, hysteria, tics, sexual, gender, identity, food-related, somatoform, affective, childhood disintegrative, pervasive developmental, and more.
What were the two conditions that saw the biggest increases in prevalence from 2014 to 2017? Major depression (31% increase) and hyperactivity (29% increase). In a newer BCBS study from 2019 that tracked statistics from 2017-2018, the biggest spikes were seen in major depression (12% increase) and alcohol use disorder (7% increase).
What’s even more alarming is that millennials are experiencing all of these conditions at a higher rate compared to Gen Xers when they were the same age (34-36).
Millennials, Pandemic Bad Habits, and the Brain
According to the 2019 study by Blue Cross Blue Shield, millennials—all millennials, not just the older ones—are also some of the hardest hit by the pandemic, with 92% saying COVID-19 had a negative impact on their mental health. Among millennials, the pandemic contributed to major increases in unhealthy behaviors, including:
At Amen Clinics and in Dr. Daniel Amen’s book, Your Brain Is Always Listening, these are referred to as “Bad Habit Dragons.” These inner dragons breathe fire on your emotional brain and fuel habits that don’t serve you.
Inside your brain, there is a constant dance between your prefrontal cortex (involved in focus, judgment, and impulse control), your amygdala (the part of your emotional brain that responds to threats), and your basal ganglia (where habits are shaped and stored). When the PFC is healthy and strong, it can help direct and supervise the addition of healthy habits. When it is weak, you are more easily influenced by untamed dragons, and your impulses can take over, causing many bad habits to form. Once formed, good or bad habits take the same amount of energy.
The rampant stress and anxiety of the pandemic weakened peoples’ PFCs and led to an increase in bad habits. This helps explain the rise in drinking, smoking, vaping, and recreational drug use during the pandemic.
The Link Between Mental Health and Physical Health
Millennials who have behavioral health conditions are also at greater risk of having chronic health conditions. They are 2.7 times more likely to have coronary artery disease, 2.1 times more likely to have diabetes, 1.9 times more likely to have Crohn’s disease/ulcerative colitis or hypertension, and 1.7 times more likely of having high cholesterol.
The mental health/physical health connection goes both ways. At Amen Clinics, we have found that your physical health greatly impacts your mental well-being. Problems with blood flow (such as hypertension), inflammation, head trauma, exposure to toxins, infections (such as Lyme disease or COVID-19), autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalances, and diabesity (obesity and diabetes) all contribute to psychiatric problems. Learning to improve these areas of your life can enhance your mental health.
Depression, anxiety, aggression, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. When you think of psychiatry, does your mind automatically equate the field with prescription medication? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other issues but don’t want pills to be your only treatment option? Have you already tried conventional treatment without relief from your symptoms? Are you hesitant to see a psychiatrist because you’re interested in a more holistic approach to treatment for mental health issues? There’s a solution, and it’s called psychiatric naturopathy.
Are you hesitant to see a psychiatrist because you’re interested in a more holistic approach to treatment for mental health issues? There’s a solution, and it’s called psychiatric naturopathy.
Naturopathic psychiatry takes a holistic mind-body-spirit approach to mental health and well-being that aims to educate the patient, prevent mental illness, and provide natural solutions. This is in contrast to allopathic psychiatry (also known as conventional or traditional psychiatry), which typically looks to use medications to mask symptoms. It’s important to note that naturopathic doctors (NDs) who specialize in psychiatry are trained in conventional medicine as well as being educated in complementary medicine. They rely on science, and the therapies they recommend are backed by rigorous research.
LOOKING FOR THE ROOT CAUSES OF MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
Licensed professionals who practice naturopathic psychiatry look at how a person’s biology, psychology, and spirituality are connected and can contribute to mental health disorders. In addition, they seek out the root causes of psychiatric issues. A naturopathic psychiatrist may explore the following as possible contributors to mental health problems:
Gut health: A condition called leaky gut is associated with mood and anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Adrenal health: The adrenal glands, located above your kidneys, play a vital role in how your body reacts to stress. When stress becomes chronic, a cocktail of harmful chemicals can come with it and can overwhelm your body and contribute to mental health issues.
Nutritional deficiencies: People with mental health issues are more likely to have deficiencies in key nutrients, and scientific research suggests that nutritional treatment may help prevent, treat, or improve mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism, addiction, and eating disorders.
Exposure to toxins: Environmental toxins impact nearly every aspect of your body and brain and can lead to a wide range of physical and psychiatric symptoms. In terms of mental health and cognitive function, exposure to toxins can increase the risk of depression, ADD/ADHD, brain fog, memory problems and dementia, learning problems, autism, temper outbursts, psychotic behavior, and suicide.
Inflammation:Research shows that chronic inflammation has been associated with a wide range of mental health problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, personality disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease
Hormonal imbalances: When hormones are out of balance you may experience symptoms typically associated with psychiatric illnesses, such as anxiety, depression, moodiness, irritability, and psychosis.
Infections: Having underlying chronic infections, such as Lyme disease, or having long-haul COVID (also known as COVID-Brain) is linked to many issues typically viewed as psychiatric problems. These include brain fog, attention issues, depression, and more.
Head trauma: The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics clearly shows that head injuries increase the risk of anxiety, panic disorders, depression, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, aggression, learning problems, and dementia. The problem is that few people, including most naturopathic psychiatrists, know this because the field of psychiatry typically doesn’t look at the organ it treats. At Amen Clinics, naturopathic psychiatrists use functional brain SPECT imaging to identify underlying brain injuries that contribute to mental health disorders.
HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY TREATMENTS
Naturopathic psychiatrists focus on providing therapies that promote self-healing within the body and brain. As a general rule, this form of holistic psychiatry looks to use the least toxic, most effective solutions, including natural therapies whenever possible. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy, spiritual or marriage counseling, mindfulness techniques, non-invasive treatments, nutraceuticals, exercise recommendations, diet suggestions, and much more.
If you’re struggling with mental health issues that aren’t responding to traditional treatment or you’re interested in a more holistic approach to care, Amen Clinics is here for you. Amen Clinics has several naturopathic doctors on staff, including Kabran Chapek, ND (president of the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians), Elissa Mendenhall, ND, and Julie Brush, ND. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. What was once thought to be primarily a respiratory illness, COVID-19 has proven to be a formidable foe for the brain as well. While most people recover from the virus within a few weeks, some simply do not. Even months after being infected and getting over the initial symptoms, many people have reported ongoing problems with memory, fatigue, brain fog, and other neurological symptoms, collectively referred to by Amen Clinics as “COVID-Brain.”
These “long-haulers” represent approximately 10% of those who were ill with COVID-19. Many of them were never hospitalized nor in high-risk categories for complications from the virus.
Research into the underlying mechanisms of the persistent and disruptive neurological symptoms is ongoing and will likely continue for years to come. However, there already are some strong theories about what may be causing brain dysfunction from COVID-19 infections, and the possible links to an increased risk of cognitive decline or dementia in the future.
How COVID-19 Infects Brain Cells
One of the most striking hypotheses described in a research article in the journal Alzheimer’s and Dementia is that SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, is “neurotropic.” This means that it can directly infect the tissues of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
Since the virus is airborne, it can be inhaled via the nose and enter the brain through the olfactory nerve. This nerve gives us our sense of smell, and anosmia—the loss of ability to smell—is often one of the first symptoms of COVID infection. Anosmia can also be an early symptom of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. It remains to be seen whether or not the damage to the olfactory system from the virus deteriorates its function in the long term. However, an October 2020 research study published in the medical journal Neurology found damage to the olfactory bulb (which connects to the olfactory nerve) in autopsy studies of those who had died from COVID-19.
Inflammation and COVID-19
Another significant concern about the long-term implications of COVID-19’s impact on the brain is the degree of inflammation it can cause. Because it is a new virus that no one had exposure to prior to 2019, humans had no defenses against it. And given its aggressive nature and potential lethality, once a person is infected with it, the immune system goes all out on the attack to fight it.
Through complex mechanisms, this results in increased inflammation as the immune system tries to defeat the invading virus. However, a consequence of this process is that, in an effort to protect the brain, the high level of inflammation can actually cause damage to the function of brain cells, including ones involved in memory.
Other possible causes of damage to the brain from COVID-19 include complications related to:
Hypoxia (lack of oxygen) due to breathing problems
Inflammation and damage to small blood vessels, similar to mini-strokes
7 Simple Ways to Lower Inflammation and Boost Your Health
Since the long-term consequences of COVID-19 are becoming increasingly recognized, if you have not been infected with it, it’s imperative that you continue to follow recommended guidelines to protect yourself from this virus. If you have had it—and particularly if you still struggle with lingering symptoms—taking measures to lower inflammation is of utmost importance.
The good news is that there are some easy changes you can make that can have a positive impact on your health. Here are 7 simple ways to decrease inflammation in your body and brain:
Increase your consumption of prebiotic foods such as apples, beans, cabbage, artichokes, asparagus, and root vegetables.
Increase probiotics in your diet either through supplements or fermented foods with live bacteria, including sauerkraut, kimchi, pickled fruits and veggies, and kombucha tea (these are often found in the produce section of the grocery store).
Boost your omega-3 fatty acid intake by eating more cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herring, or with supplements.
Limit or avoid alcohol, sugar and refined grains, processed meats, and trans-fats (anything with partially hydrogenated or vegetable shortening on the label).
Take care of your gums! Periodontal (gum) disease can increase inflammation, so be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
Practice stress management with mindfulness, meditation, or prayer.
Engage in some form of exercise every day, but don’t overdo it, because that can actually increase inflammation.
It is widely believed among researchers that uncontrolled inflammation in the brain—regardless of the cause—is a significant risk for developing dementia. Taking the appropriate steps to protect your health, can make a big difference for optimal functioning of your brain now and in the future.
COVID-Brain and memory problems are real and can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever!At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. You’ve probably heard of “detox diets” intended to cleanse your body and jumpstart better health and weight loss. But what about a brain detox? Your brain is the most metabolically active organ in your body. As such, it can be damaged from environmental toxins. It is also vulnerable to toxic relationships, toxic habits, and toxic thinking patterns. In fact, it’s your brain that carries the heaviest toxic load in your entire body. And for many of us, that load has never been greater. With the pandemic, rampant anxiety, and other stressors, now is the best time ever to do a brain detox.
With the pandemic, rampant anxiety, and other stressors, now is the best time ever to do a brain detox.
Rather than increasing your brain’s toxic load with junk food, bad habits, and negative thoughts, it’s time to rid yourself of biological, psychological, and social toxicity. This will cleanse your brain for more optimal function, which will lead to a clearer mind, more stable emotions, happier relationships, and a better life.
Start your brain detox with these 7 strategies.
1. Detox Your Home and Life
Every single day, we are exposed to a host of chemicals, fumes, and products—such as household cleaning supplies, personal care products, and gasoline fumes—that poison the human brain. Common toxins in the air we breathe and the products we rub on our skin are absorbed into our bodies via our lungs and pores and can eventually impact the brain. The more exposure you have to these everyday toxins, the more you’re putting your brain at risk and increasing your chances of cognitive and mental health issues.
Brain Detox Solution: Toss household cleaners and personal care products that are filled with harmful chemicals and opt for chemical-free, scent-free options whenever possible.
2. Detox Your Refrigerator
The Standard American Diet (SAD) is filled with pro-inflammatory, allergenic foods laced with artificial chemicals that will damage and prematurely age your brain and increase your risk for depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, and dementia. The real weapons of mass destruction are foods that are:
highly processed
pesticide sprayed
high glycemic (spikes blood sugar)
low fiber
food-like substances
artificially colored and sweetened
laden with hormones
tainted with antibiotics
stored in plastic containers
Brain Detox Solution: To reduce anxiousness, depressed moods, inattention, and memory issues, it’s time to do a clean sweep of your refrigerator (and your entire kitchen) and toss all of the foods that don’t serve you. Not having junk food in the house helps prevent impulsive, mindless eating. It’s easier to make 1 decision to get rid of it instead of 30 decisions over time not to eat it in a weak moment!
3. Detox Your Bad Habits
Alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs (including legal toxins like nicotine) are addictive and pollute the brain. On brain SPECT imaging, which measures blood flow and activity in the brain, the worst-looking brains belong to people with substance abuse. Some of the negative consequences of addiction include decreased brain volume, reduced blood flow, reduced generation of new brain cells, atrophy of the hippocampus (involved in memory and learning), and increased risk of dementia. People with addictions are likely to have co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
It’s just as important to stop engaging in bad habits that increase your risk of a head injury. For example, riding a bike without a helmet, playing tackle football, or hitting soccer balls with your head increases the risk of TBI, which elevates the likelihood of developing symptoms of mental illness and cognitive impairment.
Brain Detox Solution: Eliminate your toxic habits and replace them with habits that protect and enhance the brain.
4. Detox Your Social Circle
Toxic relationships, a lack of support from family and friends, or tension among colleagues and coworkers elevates stress hormone levels and makes us more vulnerable to many illnesses, including depression, anxiety disorders, and more. In addition, spending time with people who have bad habits increases the likelihood that you will pick up their habits. When we have great relationships, our brains tend to do much better.
Brain Detox Solution: Make a list of the people in your life and indicate if they are “accomplices” (people who keep you chained to your bad habits or negativity) or “friends, mentors, and coaches” (people who support you in your efforts to boost brain health). Limit the amount of time you spend with accomplices.
5. Detox from Technology
Are you constantly checking your phone for new messages, scrolling through your social media feed, or streaming the latest Netflix series? Technology is taking over our lives and leading to tech addiction, anxiety, mood problems, inattention, self-esteem issues, forgetfulness, impulsivity, relationship woes, and more. If you’re struggling with the adverse effects of digital obsession, it’s time to try intermittent internet fasting. The same way intermittent fasting has become a popular and effective way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, the same concept can be used to develop a more blissful relationship with your gadgets.
Brain Detox Solution: Here are 6 ways to detox from tech:
Take daily breaks from your gadgets (even 15 minutes will help).
Take a break once a month or once a week.
Stick to the single screen rule (don’t use multiple screens at once and have multiple tabs open!)
Don’t talk and text: Put your phone away when you’re with friends or family.
Make the bedroom a tech-free zone.
Avoid the Google effect: Use your brain to try to memorize things before relying on the internet.
6. Detox Your Brain at Night
While you’re sleeping, your brain is hard at work performing some very critical functions necessary to keep it operating at optimal levels. For example, during sleep, your brain cleans or washes itself by eliminating cellular debris and toxins that build up during the day (basically taking out the neural trash), consolidates learning and memory, and prepares for the following day. The brain processes that occur during sleep are also important for the health of your immune system, appetite control, and neurotransmitter production. When you skimp on sleep or experience sleep disturbances, you don’t get the brain benefits.
Brain Detox Solution: To help your brain take out the nightly neural trash, try these tips:
Aim for 7+ hours of sleep each night.
Keep your bedroom completely dark and quiet.
Stay cool—between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for quality sleep.
Establish a sleep schedule—go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Avoid eating a meal within 2-3 hours of going to bed.
No blue screens 30-60 minutes before bed.
If you snore, get evaluated for sleep apnea and/or wear your CPAP.
If you need help falling asleep, try melatonin.
7. Detox Your Thoughts
How you think and talk to yourself, as well as the running dialogue in your mind either helps or hurts your brain and mental well-being. Did you know that your thoughts lie? They lie a lot. And it’s the lies you tell yourself that hold you back and keep you down. When your mind is filled with ANTs (automatic negative thoughts), it reduces your brain’s ability to think clearly, form memories, and problem-solve.
Brain Detox Solution: Kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) that cloud your brain and steal your happiness. Whenever you have a sad, mad, anxious, or negative thought, write it down. Then ask yourself if it’s true. This can help you develop a more positive and hopeful outlook.If your brain has been assaulted by toxic substances, toxic people, or toxic thinking, it puts you at risk for cognitive and mental health problems. Functional brain imaging with SPECT can help you see the health of your brain and understand areas that need optimization. A troubled brain can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your emotional and cognitive well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.
