Holistic Nutrition & Neurology Blog
Thanks for visiting! This blog was created to share information on the holistic approach to addressing a wide range of neurological disorders including Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, Tourette's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease. We'll also discuss natural methods for prenatal discomfort, drug-free therapies for those suffering from chronic pain/inflammation, as well as proper nutrition and supplementation. Our goal is to help you learn how to achieve optimum health...naturally.
-- Dr. Keri Chiappino and Dr. W. Brent Reynolds
5 Really Good Things to Do For Your Brain in 2012
January 09, 2012
by Dr. W. Brent Reynolds
1. Just Breathe. The brain is very sensitive to oxygen and carbon dioxide changes. Just taking a few more deep breaths during the day can improve brain function and reduce the brain’s fight or flight response (stress).
2. Get adjusted. Chiropractic adjustments are often effective in improving breathing mechanics. Lots of muscles attach to the front of the chest, ribs and shoulders and when tight can reduce your body’s ability to take a full, deep breath. Adjustments geared toward improving posture can change the brain’s function. Change the position of the body and the brain follows. Also, research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can improve brain function especially when geared towards improving an under-functioning hemisphere.
3. Get regular massages. Regular massage therapy sessions are a great way to reduce tension which increases brain function. Studies have shown that massage therapy can improve brain chemistry.
4.
Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback can help you retrain your brain to function more optimally in certain situations. Neurofeedback has more than 40 years of research behind it. Neurofeedback is clinically effective in helping with symptoms like anxiety, memory problems and poor concentration.
5. Regulate your glucose levels.
Our brains depend on a constant supply of glucose. Glucose is sugar; it's the brain's main source of fuel. Unlike gas for our cars, however, we can't just dump a bunch of glucose in our tanks in the morning and refuel when it gets low. We would experience a crash. Some suggestions:
Eat a diet low in simple sugars, especially in the morning. Proteins such as nuts, seeds, eggs, etc. and whole grains like oatmeal are good choices.
Consume small, frequent meals during the day that consist of complex carbohydrates, i.e. sweet potatoes and fruits with skin, and lean protein like fish and chicken.
Incorporate fiber foods including lots of vegetables into your diet. These foods give your brain a constant supply of fuel (glucose) during the day. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) that produces fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration is an indicator that your glucose levels are affecting your brain function.
Let us help you achieve your wellness goals for 2012! Contact us to learn more how neurofeedback, massage therapy, nutritional counseling and chiropractic adjustments can help improve your brain health and overall well being. 631.265.1223
-- Dr. W. Brent Reynolds
References:
Changes in brain function after manipulation of the cervical spine. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1997 Oct;20(8):529-45.
Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy. Int J Neurosci. 2005 Oct;115(10):1397-413.
