“As you get older, three things happen. The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.” Many of us have loved ones experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s, including my father. Declining cognitive health is a silent epidemic sweeping our country.
Gratefully, acupuncture and clinical nutrition are highly effective interventions that support the brain and can slow, halt or even reverse symptoms of cognitive decline. They address the root causes of cognitive decline and are very effective in preserving long-term brain health.
Acupuncture supports cognitive function and memory by improving blood flow in the brain. Increased blood flow means increased function. The brain consumes approximately 20% of the body’s oxygen and blood despite being only 2% of the body’s mass. Brain tissues need a constant supply of oxygenated blood. Increased cerebral blood flow delivers oxygen and glucose to neurons, which increases attention, processing speed and cognitive function. Improved blood flow also helps clear metabolic waste from the brain. This reduces inflammation and creates a healthier environment for the brain to function.
Acupuncture works to harmonize the body’s inflammatory response. Lowering inflammation in the brain improves cognitive function. Acupuncture reduces inflammation in the brain by regulating signaling pathways. This helps protect neurons and improves synaptic connections, which improves cognitive function.
In order to heal and stay healthy, the brain needs nutrients. While it’s best to consult a practitioner for nutritional support that is based on a person’s specific presentation, some general guidelines apply.
A diet full of nutrient-dense, whole foods is important for maintaining excellent brain function over time. Nutrient-dense diets support a healthy gut microbiome and overall physiological function. Processed foods, full of seed oils and synthetic chemicals, cause systemic inflammation and reduce brain function.
Make sure you get lots of good fats, like grass-fed butter, coconut oil and extra virgin cold pressed olive oil. They support brain health. The brain is nearly 60% fat, and essential fatty acids have so many benefits. Fats build cell membranes, supporting synaptic transmission and myelin sheath formation for faster nerve impulse delivery. Good fats increase the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for memory and learning. They reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and adequate intake of essential fatty acids is linked to better mood regulation. I recommend three tablespoons of good fats every day, one tablespoon per meal. I find that if you put enough butter, salt and pepper on any vegetable, it makes it taste great!
When signs or symptoms of cognitive decline appear, it’s important to seek professional guidance. Working with a qualified practitioner can help identify potential underlying factors contributing to cognitive changes, such as inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, blood sugar imbalances, poor sleep, or chronic stress, and provide a personalized treatment plan to address them. Combined with acupuncture, a targeted nutritional program will support your cognitive function and boost your overall well-being.
Learn more about our approach to cognitive health & memory here.
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