Can you remember the last time your primary care physician inquired about your brain health? Do you know how you would even begin to assess the health of your brain?
Your brain is the control center of your existence. It dictates your thoughts, movements, emotions, and memories. It’s the most complex organ in your body, and just like any vital organ, it requires regular check-ups and maintenance.
At Nava Health, we believe that prioritizing brain health is a critical pillar of living a long, healthy life.
Why Check on Brain Health?
Dr. Lord, our Medical Director, explains, “The brain is susceptible to various conditions, including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke. Early detection of these issues can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. Regular brain health assessments can also help identify potential risk factors for cognitive decline and allow for preventative measures to be implemented.”
Introducing the WAVi Scan: A Window into Brain Function
Our clinic utilizes a cutting-edge technology called the WAVi Brain Scan. This non-invasive, painless assessment provides valuable insights into brain function.
It measures brain wave activity, which can reveal information about:
- Cognitive Function: The WAVi scan can assess memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function.
- Emotional Wellbeing: It can help identify potential imbalances related to anxiety, depression, and stress.
- Brain Health Risk Factors: Early signs of cognitive decline or other brain health concerns can be detected.
Clinical Nutritionist Stephanie Misanik adds, “The WAVi scan can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD). SCD is a term used to describe a feeling of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or other cognitive changes that may not yet meet the criteria for a diagnosed condition. The WAVi scan can provide objective data to guide treatment decisions and inform personalized brain health plans.”
Beyond the Scan: Indicators of Long-Term Brain Health
While the WAVi scan is valuable, brain health goes beyond a single assessment. Because we practice functional medicine here at Nava, we understand the crucial connections of various bodily functions in achieving overall optimal health. Here are some additional indicators to consider:
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is crucial. Conversely, excessive saturated fat, sugar, and processed foods can negatively impact brain function.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation disrupts brain wave activity and can impair cognitive function.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, promotes the growth of new brain cells, and improves cognitive function.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can damage brain cells and contribute to cognitive decline. Techniques like mindfulness meditation and yoga can help manage stress effectively.
- Social Connection: Social interaction keeps the brain stimulated and helps prevent cognitive decline. Cultivate strong relationships and engage in social activities you enjoy.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Regularly challenging your brain with activities like puzzles, learning a new language, or playing brain-training games can improve cognitive function.
Building a Personalized Brain Health Plan
By combining the insights from the WAVi scan with your individual health history, lifestyle habits, and personal goals, we can create a personalized brain health plan. This plan might include:
- Nutritional adjustments: Recommending specific dietary changes or supplements to optimize brain health.
- Sleep hygiene practices: Techniques to improve sleep quality and duration.
- IV Micronutrient Therapy: Maintaining optimal hydration and improving key vitamin deficiencies can be a big support to helping our brains operate at their best.
- Stress management techniques: Recommending strategies like acupuncture, massage, or breathing exercises to manage stress effectively.
- Cognitive stimulation recommendations: Suggest specific activities to challenge your brain and prevent cognitive decline.
Living a Long, Optimal Life Starts with a Healthy Brain
Taking charge of your brain health is an investment in your long-term well-being. By prioritizing brain health checks, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and collaborating with a team of integrative medicine practitioners, you can empower yourself to live a longer, more fulfilling life.
Schedule a Consultation Today!
At our integrative medicine practice, we are passionate about helping you achieve optimal brain health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can create a personalized plan for you. Remember, your brain is your most valuable asset; take care of it, and it will take care of you!
Dana is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) and a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS). Her passion for health and wellness started at a very young age and grew stronger once she started working with patients professionally. Her passion for personalized nutrition and precision medicine eventually expanded to education and academia.
Dana’s clinical and research focus is on digestive health, neuroendocrine-immune health, natural hormone balancing, reproductive health, and fertility.