Brain Health
Our health depends on the health of various organs. However, the health of the brain is probably the most critical for our overall health and well-being. A healthy brain is not just responsible for the optimal functioning of various physiological processes, but also for the ability to perform cognitive processes effectively. Contrary to popular belief, issues with brain health are experienced with almost every human being as they age.
Dr. Adonis is a trained neurosurgeon, and through his extensive practice of functional medicine, has engaged in enabling patients to understand the correlation between neurological processes and aging. He uses a multifunctional approach to enable patients with a genetic history of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, or other conditions to enjoy better mental and, thereby, overall health. Although his treatment has found the best results in cases detected early, all his patients have benefited significantly from his recommendations.
Dr. Adonis has given direction and hope to those at risk of or suffering from brain health–related ailments. If you would like to enjoy a happy, healthy, and agile brain, book an appointment with our clinic today.
When the brain is functioning well, it means that blood flow to the brain is adequate. It is also a sign that there has been no force, internal or external, that impacts its abilities. Although we all tend to believe that brain health suffers in old age, it actually starts to occur much earlier. A decline in cognitive abilities begins when we reach the age of 20. We may notice it when we take longer and require a more concentrated effort to commit things to memory, recall of information may not be as immediate, and our range of cognitive abilities ceases to be as versatile. It is estimated that at least 3 of 5 Americans suffer from brain disease at some stage in their lifetime.
Some of the most common conditions of the brain include brain injury, tumors in the brain, neurodegenerative disease, and mental disorders. These can occur due to a combination of several factors, including genetics, injuries, and illnesses.
A neurological specialist will diagnose and help understand brain health. A combination of vision, hearing, and balance are baseline tests to check for simple functions of the body. These are followed by Neuro-cognitive testing and imaging like PET scan, CT scan, or an MRI. The results of these tests and medical examination together help neurologists arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
What You Can Do
Brain diseases are better prevented than treated. Although some variables are beyond our control, we can mitigate the risk of brain disease with the following tips suggested by Dr. A:
Prevent Brain Injury
It has been observed that a brain injury can occur mostly below the age of 4, between the ages of 15 and 25, and over the age of 65. Ensure children and the elderly are protected from falls and sharp objects, and avoid the risk of brain injury when traveling, playing sport, or being mobile.
Diet
Eating intelligently can boost brain health. Having foods with anti-inflammatory properties and fresh fruits and vegetables with plant sources of protein can be especially beneficial. Consuming fish and olive oil helps retard cognitive impairment. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B have been proven to be great for brain health.
Active Mind
Keep the mind fit and active. Try and solve puzzles, play memory and mind games, and train the mind to experiment and think. Craft, art, and skills that improve motor dexterity are great ways to engage the mind and body in symbiotic activity and help you stay alert. Learning music and languages are another way to keep the brain alert and engaged. Allowing the mind to stay more active ensures generation of fresh cells in the brain, and also improves neural activity between the cells, causing the brain to be healthier and stronger.
Exercise
It has been proven that exercise is good for all parts of the body, and the brain is no exception. Exercising helps improve coordination between the brain and muscles, improves motor coordination, lowers sugar and cholesterol levels, and improves the flow of oxygen to the brain. Exercising also enables the brain to think and respond faster, making it more agile. Moreover, exercise is known to be a mood enhancer and also improves learning.
Mental Health
Patients who have mental health–related issues are seen to experience lowered brain health over time. If you notice any signs of stress, depression, or anxiety, ensure you are treated immediately to prevent these conditions from affecting the brain.
Medicate Carefully
Certain kinds of medicines impact memory and brain function. Be especially careful when taking statins for cholesterol, antianxiety drugs like alprazolam, and antihistamines like diphenhydramine.
Supplements
Several natural supplements have shown great results in improving brain health with sustained use. Fish oils, caffeine, and creatine are some common supplements that we know of. It has been established that most natural supplements work best in those suffering from brain health–related issues and deficiencies.
DHEA and Pregnenolone
Functional medicine finds the use of these supplements extremely interesting since they have been found to have properties of suppressing and boosting certain brain activities so as to have more control over the functioning of the brain. Using these can provide the brain protection from damage and retard the onset of problems like Alzheimer’s.
Social Activity
Being more socially engaged and active can slow down diseases like dementia and also keep the brain more alert. Being connected through clubs, groups, and other such platforms allows an opportunity to connect, volunteer, and also express emotions and needs.