Having difficulties focusing, remembering tasks or organizing your thoughts? Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help optimize your brain power. Here are a few recommendations on lifestyle and nutrition from Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing that will impact your brain function:
1. Start Incorporating Nutrient-Dense Foods for Cognitive Health
Chinese medicine places great emphasis on consuming nutrient-dense foods to support brain function. Some key components include:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seafood is considered beneficial for cognitive health due to its rich omega-3 fatty acid content. These essential fats support cognitive function, improve memory, and help reduce inflammation in the brain.
- Nourishing Herbs: Certain herbs nourish the brain and enhance mental clarity. Ginkgo biloba and Ashwagandha have been proven to improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory actions on the body and brain.
- Dark Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients play a crucial role in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and improving cognitive performance.
- Walnuts: Have you ever wondered why a walnut looks like a brain? This similarity is not a coincidence! Walnuts are THE nut for brain health as they hold the highest DHA content which is a form of essential omega-3 fatty acid to slow cognitive decline.
2. Promote the Gut-Brain Connection
A healthy digestive system is vital for optimal brain function. Foods that promote healthy digestion, such as probiotic-rich foods like fermented vegetables and bone broth, are often recommended to support both gut and brain health.
Think of your digestive system as a fire. If you throw something cold on the fire, the fire will go out. If you throw something warm on the fire, it helps stoke it. Cold foods, even raw foods, can be hard on your digestive system. Warm foods, such as soups and cooked vegetables, help keep your digestive fire burning.
3. Take a minute to recharge
If you’re working nonstop, constantly connected to your phone, or staring at screens all day, it can take a toll on your mental and physical wellbeing. Take regular mental breaks throughout the day, intentionally stay off your phone, and practice yoga or meditation to help your mind relax and recharge.
4. Acupuncture
Acupuncture treatments help with multiple “brain” symptoms – including brain fog, fatigue, forgetfulness, and trouble concentrating. Anxiety and sleeplessness is also related to the brain.
A recent 2024 study shows the potential of acupuncture to improve cognitive function in individuals experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD), a precursor to dementia. This research, focusing on the hippocampus—the brain region first impacted by cognitive impairment—suggests that acupuncture may not only improve cognitive abilities but also enhance the structural integrity and connectivity of the brain.
Key Points from this study:
- Cognitive Benefits: Participants receiving acupuncture showed significant improvements in cognitive tests after a 12-week treatment period.
- Brain Structure and Function: Acupuncture was associated with an increase in hippocampal volume and better white matter integrity, indicating enhanced brain health.
- Enhanced Connectivity: The study found that acupuncture could improve the functional connectivity of the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory and learning.
Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing is here to strengthen your brain health and vitality. As always, reach out if you or your family is in need of our support.
In good health,
The Team at Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing
