Brain fog is a common condition that describes feelings of mental confusion and a lack of mental clarity. It can result in forgetfulness and disorganization and contributes to problems at work or school and in relationships. Brain fog can have many diverse causes, ranging from imbalances to medications or medical conditions.
Toxic Level of Metals
Toxic levels of metals can have a profound effect on the brain. Excessive copper is associated with confusion, disorientation, racing thoughts and moodiness. A copper imbalance can be caused by weak adrenal glands, zinc deficiency, stress, fatigue and dietary reasons, notes Dr. Lawrence Wilson, a nutrition consultant in Arizona. High levels of other trace elements like iron, manganese and chromium can also give rise to brain fog, notes the Brain Harmony Center. Wilson notes that toxicity with mercury, aluminum, cadmium and lead can also contribute to brain fog.
Bowel Toxicity
Powerful toxins like indols, skatols and cadaverine can be generated from improperly digested food that rots or ferments in the intestines, notes Wilson. Stress, poor eating habits, intestinal infections and not drinking enough water can cause food to ferment in the intestines, explains the Brain Harmony Center. If the toxins from improperly digested food cannot be processed by the eliminative organs, namely the liver and kidneys, toxic chemicals remain in the bloodstream, and because the brain requires lots of blood, the brain is quickly affected, adds the Brain Harmony Center.
Medication
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause brain fog symptoms like confusion and irritability, notes the Brain Harmony Center. Some drugs used to treat mood disorders, allergies, pain, hypertension, heart arrhythmias, glaucoma, infections and inflammation can have side effects commonly described as brain fog, adds the Brain Harmony Center. Chemotherapy results in what cancer patients describe as "chemo brain," which is essentially the same as brain fog. Although, according to Mayo Clinic, it is unclear if the symptoms are directly related to chemotherapy.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which the level of blood glucose becomes too low and is often associated with brain fog, states Wilson. MedlinePlus explains that after eating, the body absorbs the glucose it needs and the excess is stored in the liver until blood sugar levels start to fall again, at which point a hormone triggers the release of the stored glucose. However, in people with hypoglycemia, notes MedlinePlus, the release of stored glucose doesn't happen and therefore blood glucose levels get dangerously low. The brain does not have the capacity to store glucose or nutrients; it requires a constant supply of glucose-rich blood, and if the supply drops, confusion, irritability, forgetfulness and even blackouts can result, notes the Brain Harmony Center. Symptoms usually occur several hours after a meal and may come on suddenly. Individuals with hypoglycemia have to eat very regularly to ensure glucose is always present in the blood.
