Brain Health, Cognition & Mental Health

Our brain is the most valuable asset we have and to date it is probably one of the least understood components of our body.  The complex mechanisms of the brain and how it controls our physiology and psychology are incredible.  One thing that research has uncovered recently is that the brain-body connection is a two way street.  So not only can our brain function affect our body and physiology but changes in our physiology can affect our brain.

Understanding this two-way street approach allows us to address brain and mental health through a multi-factorial approach.

Optimizing brain health can include addressing:

• Depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges

• Cognitive challenges, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia

• Brain injury (see below)

• Mental overwhelm

• Stress management

Factors often missed when addressing brain and mental health

• Immune dysfunction including autoimmunity

• Systemic and brain inflammation

• Blood brain barrier permeability

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Hormone imbalances

Mental health challenges are complex conditions that need support in many areas, mentally, physically, spiritually and socially.

The importance of healing Brain Injuries

Brain Injuries are often one of the most complex challenges a body can face.   Since the brain is the master regulator, these people can often experience multi-system challenges.  From gut dysfunction, mood challenges, fatigue, headaches and hormonal deficiency, head injuries can devastate the ability to live a “normal” life.  

Support to these adjunctive systems is necessary while working re-establishing normal function of the brain. Unfortunately that is easier said than done, but functional medicine has many tools available, above and beyond pharmaceuticals, to help restore normal functioning.  

Therapies helpful in brain healing include:

• Nutritional supplements

• Low Level Laser Therapy/Photobiomodulation

• Neurofeedback

• Bio-identical hormone therapy

• Acupuncture

• Herbal supplements

• Dietary interventions

No longer something I can afford not to participate in.

“The office is pleasant, the doctor runs on time, yet I never feel rushed.  Treatment like this is no longer something I can afford not to participate in”

— M.L.