5 things that can change your brain
In some cases of brain dysfunction, neurofeedback may not be the place to start.
This is where one needs to look to the ‘second brain’ of the gut.
The microbes in our intestines play a vital role in the creation and absorption of bio-chemicals. These chemicals are building blocks for neurotransmitters (brain chemicals); psychoactive compounds needed for proper brain function. The brain’s chemical balance plays a vital role in our cognitive development, psychological health, sleep patterns and stress responses.
If the natural balance in our gut is disturbed by poor diet, environmental toxins, antibiotics or medications, it can have a heavy impact on the brain. Functions like memory, concentration, focus, mood, and energy levels can all suffer when the chemical balance isn’t right. If the gut’s imbalance is chronic, it may lead to inflammation of the central nervous system and general brain instability.
Gut health is beginning to be seen as a major factor in autistic spectrum disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, and difficulties with behaviour and concentration.
By tailoring the diet and eliminating any foods that cause inflammatory reactions, we can optimise brain function, support the digestive organs, and restore the gastro-intestinal system (the gut-brain axis).
If we suspect a neurotransmitter imbalance, we will refer you to a local gut health professional or Functional Medicine practitioner. Later, it will be time to see us for ‘clean-up’ work for any remaining symptoms.
Functional medicine integrates western medicine and medical testing with traditional techniques.
It pays careful attention to basic physiological disruptions, such as the gastro-intestinal system, intestinal permeability (leaky gut), the liver and the endocrine system.
In cases of a chemical or hormanal imbalance, neurofeedback training may not be the place to start. That’s where functional Medicine comes in.
Diet often plays a big part; from approipriate nutrients to bringing essential amino-acids necessary for the formation of neuro-transmitters (brain chemicals) to optimise brain function, elimination of any foods causing inflammatory reactions, support of the digestive organs, and restoration of the gastro-intestinal system (the gut-brain axis).
Therefore, it demands a more in-depth medical history for genetic susceptibility, biochemical disruption, stress accumulation, hormonal imbalance, toxicity overload, unresolved psychological issues and unhealthy lifestyle habits.
In this approach, the doctor and patient form a team which empower the patient through education, awareness, consciousness of the body and mindfulness.
