Functional Holistic Healing
Functional Integrative Medicine Practice of
Dr. Nadia Ali
3 Steps to reverse loss of memory and concentration
Memory loss is no longer the disease of the elderly. It is on the rise in the younger population. In fact, most individuals who ultimately develop Alzheimer's Disease (the most commonly diagnosed form of memory loss) start experiencing dementia in their 30's and 40's.
This blog identifies 3 steps to reverse brain damage leading to loss of memory and concentration.
​
Step 1: Early Detection of Brain Damage
Research indicates that early detection is essential to prevention, slowing and reversal of memory loss. Memory loss is only one of the early signs of damage to neurons or nerve cells. Other signs include
-
Loss of concentration
-
Brain Fog (Confusion)
-
Difficulty with decision making or problem solving
-
Difficulty with words when speaking or writing
-
Poor judgement
-
Changes in mood
-
Increased anxiety and agitation
-
Sleep disturbance
​
Early detection also involves assessing the genetic factors that may be putting the individual at risk for brain damage such as APO E and MTHFR genes.
​
Step 2: Classification of Memory Loss
​
The second step is understanding the cause of brain damage. Most individuals have more than 1 cause. This is the most important step because an accurate classification helps to identify the most effective intervention for reversing the damage and repairing the brain.
​
Type 1-Inflammation: This involves brain inflammation which could originate from infections such as small bowel intestinal overgrowth (SIBO), Herpes, mold etc.
​
Type 1.5-Insulin Resistance: This is a combination of type 1 and 2. I involves inflammation that is due to insulin resistance and blood sugar control. This is very common in those with Prediabetes, Diabetes type 2, metabolic syndrome and Fatty Liver Disease.
​
Type 2-Lack of trophic support: This type of brain damage is associated with deficiency of nutrients such as B12, and vitamin D, hormonal imbalance associated with estrogen and Testosterone as well as lack of necessary support needed for growth and repair of brain cells.
​
Type 3-Toxic: Early onset of memory loss is often related to this class. The primary cause of brain damage is related to exposure to toxins such as mercury and pesticides. Many medications are toxic to the brain such as antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety and pain medications.
​
Type 4-Vascular insufficiency: Brain damage in this category is related to poor blood supply to areas of the brain such as after minor or major strokes as well as sleep apnea.
​
Type 5-Trauma: This type of memory loss is primarily triggered by trauma to the brain such as concussion and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
​
Step 3: Neurogenesis and Neuroplasticty
​
In 1998, Dr. Peter Eriksson demonstrated that the capacity of human brain cells to divide (Neurogenesis) and grow more connections (Neuroplasticity) exists throughout our life. Reversal of memory loss is initiation of Neurogenesis and Neuroplasticity. It takes about 3-6 months and involves the removal of all possible toxins that affect the brain. These toxins can enter the body through food, skin as well as the nose. Research shows that risk of dementia increased 10-fold comparing those living within 50 meters of a major roadway compared to those living at least 150 meters away. This is followed by assessment of the nutrients and hormones needed to replenish and repair the brain cells. Last and the most important step is to constantly strive to keep the process of neurogenesis and neuroplasticity ongoing. Optimal Brain Health is a dynamic process that requires time, energy and resources.
​
Learn more about our Integrative Program for Brain Wellness
​