NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — We’ve all felt it at some point, that lack of focus, or mental clarity. Some refer to it as brain fog, that cluster of symptoms that impacts our thinking, memory and concentration. While there’s no magic bullet, of course, we’ve combined a few brain-boosting compounds to create what we’re calling a Clarity Cocktail . Tune in for the recipe, along with strategies to maximize mental clarity.
A variety of lifestyle factors and medical conditions can contribute to brain fog, including but not limited to nutritional deficiencies, stress, overwork, lack of sleep (also sleep apnea), thyroid problems, depression and anxiety, among others.
Of course we can’t assume that it’s one of the common culprits above, so as always, consult with your physician before making any significant lifestyle changes, and to rule out and/or address any underlying health conditions.
If you’re doing all (or at least most of) the right stuff for your mind and body: at least 7 hours of sleep , hydrating effectively , limiting refined carbs and added sugar , getting enough protein , incorporating stress-reducing behaviors into your daily routine – and you’re still not feeling the benefits, try this Clarity Cocktail . Sip it to start your day, at least 30 minutes before any caffeinated coffee or tea.
RECIPE: Clarity Cocktail
8 ounces decaffeinated green tea or decaf matcha tea
1 scoop (500 mg) powdered NMN
1 scoop (5 grams) creatine monohydrate
Prepare a cup of green tea or matcha tea (can be hot or chilled, but hot is better for the NMN and creatine to fully dissolve. Drink immediately.
CLARITY COCKTAIL: What’s Inside
Creatine | Beyond muscle, accumulating research shows that creatine supplementation can benefit markers of cognitive performance and brain health.
This potential for creatine supplementation to improve brain health includes conditions that may be influenced by acute stressors (e.g. sleep deprivation) or chronic conditions (e.g. aging, Alzheimer’s disease, depression). Note: our recipe uses decaf green tea, as caffeine interferes with the effectiveness of creatine.
NMN [Nicotinamide Mononucleotide] | NMN supports cognitive function and improves metabolic markers. NMN is a precursor of a compound called NAD+, and NAD + levels in the body are depleted as we age. This depletion of NAD + is associated with cognitive impairment, also decreased energy production by our mitochondria, DNA damage and inflammatory diseases.
NMN [Nicotinamide Mononucleotide] | NMN supports cognitive function and improves metabolic markers. NMN is a precursor of a compound called NAD+, and NAD + levels in the body are depleted as we age. This depletion of NAD + is associated with cognitive impairment, also decreased energy production by our mitochondria, DNA damage and inflammatory diseases.
NMN, as the precursor of NAD + , has been shown to have promise in reversing these age-related issues – including improvement in cognition and mental clarity – and slow down the rate of aging by enhancing NAD + levels in the body.
Green Tea | Drinking green tea or matcha tea regularly – even decaf – ( two or more cups per day ) is associated with better cognitive function , specifically as it relates to working memory and executive function.
Want more? Check out some of Molly’s past segments + podcasts for a deeper dive:
- 5 natural pick-me-ups on WGNO | link here
- Surprising health benefits of tea on WGNO | link here
- Molly’s podcast on collagen | link here
- Collagen 101 on WGNO | link here
- Molly’s podcast on NMN drops the week this segment airs, link here
FUELED Wellness + Nutrition is powered by evamor. Learn more at evamor.com .
Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD is a registered dietitian + nutrition journalist in New Orleans, and founder of Ochsner Eat Fit nonprofit restaurant initiative. Tune in to her podcast, FUELED | Wellness + Nutrition and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @MollyKimballRD. See more of Molly’s articles + TV segments at www.mollykimball.com , and sign up for Eat Fit Wellness Bites weekly newsletter, here . To schedule a nutrition consult with Molly’s Lifestyle Nutrition team, email nutrition@ochsner.org
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