Blowing Away the Brain Fog

Brain fog sounds much more benign than it actually feels. If you have ever experienced brain fog you know how challenging and bewildering it can be. It’s not just walking into a room and forgetting what you came in there for. It’s also being unable to remember words and names, not being able to think clearly or make decisions, and being unable to concentrate. It can feel like you are in the early stages of dementia. woman with fog above head

It is quite common for women at menopause to experience brain fog. It is not an illness. Cognitive fatigue, memory impairment, and lack of correct judgement can all be elements of brain fog.

You might also notice that it is hard to store new information, or make plans or use your organisation skills. Some women experience confusion and lack of concentration.

There are many causes of brain fog at menopause including: fluctuating hormones, poor sleep, stress, dehydration, and medication. It can also be the result of underlying health issues such as fibromyalgia, Lupus, thyroid function, or undergoing chemotherapy.

This week on the Hot Women Rock Radio Show I shared my top tips for blowing away the brain fog.

Pat’s Experience of Brain Fog

In her late 40s Pat was working as a director in a big Government Department.

“I had a responsible job and was commuting for up to four hours a day. On top of that I had a teenage son doing exams and preparing to go to university. My mother and her widowed sister were getting older and needing more support. On top of all of that I was studying for an MBA. Many women have that sort of complex life as they transition through menopause.

I started to notice that the world had ‘gone out of focus’. It was like I needed a new pair of glasses. I couldn’t think clearly the way I used to. I was tired and used my time on the train to grab some extra sleep.

Despite being clued up about menopause, I didn’t realise that this was a symptom. That’s why I talk about brain fog now when I am running training sessions about menopause or working one-to-one with clients. I know how worrying it can be, particularly if there is a family history of dementia.

The good news is that there are actions you can take to support your brain function. And the brain fog does clear as you move into post-menopause. I still don’t always remember why I walked into a room but that’s just normal. I have written five books since menopause and traveled the world talking about it so my brain can’t be that bad!”

9 Top Tips to Blow Away Brain Fog
  1. Review your diet. Brain function is supported by a Mediterranean type of diet which includes vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats such as olive oil, oily fish, and avocados.
  2. Stay well hydrated. Your brain needs water to function well. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. They inflame your system and dehydrate you.
  3. Plan for regular, good quality sleep.
  4. Take a multi-vitamin that contains minerals
  5. Reduce your stress. Learn to say ‘no’.
  6. Meditate every day for at least 5 minutes. You don’t have to sit cross-legged. You can meditate while you walk or exercise.
  7. Spend time in nature.
  8. Be sociable to stay stimulated.
  9. Have lots of cuddles. Cuddles with other humans or pets releases the hormone oxytocin which is an antioxidant.

If you need help with your brain fog, sleep or menopause generally contact me today to discuss how I can help you.

You will also find more information in my book Hot Women, Cool Solutions

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