Hormones, Brain Function, and Memory
Women going through menopause often exclaim, "I feel like I'm losing my mind!" and ongoing research demonstrates that there is ample reason for their concern. A hormone imbalance can wreak havoc on brain chemistry and the communication between brain cells (neurotransmission).
Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and the thyroid hormones are as essential to our balanced moods and cognitive abilities as food-based nutrients are to our basic cellular function. In fact, concentrations of the estrogens, progesterone, pregnenolone, testosterone, DHEA and other hormones can be higher in the brain than in the bloodstream. Research indicates that nerve cells in the brain (and central nervous system) are actually producing their own supply of these hormones (i.e., "neuro-steroids") independently of hormone production by the ovaries, testes and adrenal glands.
Because hormones are often more concentrated in the brain, any hormone imbalance can affect brain function dramatically. In his book The Hormone Solution, Dr. Thierry Hertoghe notes that deficiencies in cortisol, DHEA, estrogen hormones, melatonin, pregnenolone, testosterone, thyroid, and vasopressin exhibit the most common brain-related symptoms, including memory loss, poor concentration, and confusion.
Chronic medical conditions, especially those linked with a hormone imbalance, typically also have a profound impact on brain health and often lead to memory problems. Conditions commonly associated with memory loss are depression, arteriosclerosis, blood sugar problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, allergies, and infections such as candida--all of which are also often associated with a hormone imbalance.
We used to think that brain cells grew as we developed, leveling off at some point in our adulthood, and then declining as we aged. That notion was recently replaced with the realization that brain cells are continually changing, growing new dendrites and receptors, and creating new synapses. Even adult brains can grow brand-new cells!
For the first time in human history, scientists are beginning to understand how profoundly a person can influence the factors that control brain functioning-- through food, supplements, and simple lifestyle changes, including mental and physical exercise.
Most experts agree that it is never too late to start improving your brain health. To help keep your brain sharp:
- Become a life-long learner. Exercising your mind is the most important thing you can do to build and maintain brain health.
- Partake in regular physical exercise at least three to five times per week. The increased oxygen and blood flow help improve memory, even in those who already show signs of dementia.
- Maximize nourishing foods and minimize anti-nutrients, including:
- Eating a healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants to reduce the amount of free radical damage to your brain tissue. If necessary, take a multivitamin or supplements to avoid deficiencies.
- Getting enough omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are found in cold water fish such as salmon, and have beneficial effects on brain cell structure.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which are toxic to the brain and other body cells.
- Maintain optimal hormone balance to keep neurotransmitters nourished and functioning well.
- Recognize that you are an ever-changing but integrated whole, not just a collection of body parts that can be treated or maintained separately.
If you have any concerns regarding your brain function and memory, do not hesitate to call to make an appointment.
Love and blessings,
Dr. Susan
