You’re halfway through your long road trip and feel your eyes getting heavy. It’s 2PM and your ability to focus on work seems to have completely escaped you. After a less-than-optimal night’s sleep you just can’t get your brain going to knock out that to-do list.
Have you ever been there? What do you do? It’s in these moments that most people reach for a caffeine-packed energy drink or giant (probably sugar-filled) cup of coffee. Don’t be too proud if you use a sugar substitute instead, that may not be much better for you. What if there was another way to boost your energy and focus without adding calories to your diet or harming your brain? Meet: Rhodiola rosea.
What is it and where is it from?
Rhodiola rosea is a plant that is found mainly in arctic environments and high altitudes in the northern hemisphere including parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. The underground stem contains the nutrients commonly used in supplementation. Many different cultures have used rhodiola, historically referred to as “golden root,” for centuries, to help with energy, fatigue, and a variety of other health issues.
How can Rhodiola Help You?
Rhodiola rosea has been studied for many different benefits including physical performance and mental performance, and has been shown to have immense therapeutic potential. Rhodiola rosea's consistent benefits include countering fatigue, sharpening attention, and increasing mental capacity. It doesn’t just help your brain though; it has also been shown to help energy levels when exercising. This incredible root has even been found to have a beneficial effect on mood. Additionally, rhodiola has strong antioxidant properties to fight free radicals and has been shown to be a powerful adaptogen which helps the body adapt to and resist stress.
Where can you get it?
Think this energy-supporting, wonder-root sounds too exotic to get your hands on? Think again. Rhodiola rosea can be found at a clinical dose in BrainMD’s Focus & Energy. Supported by rhodiola rosea and four other ingredients like the powerful Asian ginseng root extract and decaffeinated green tea extract, Focus & Energy can help to promote concentration, energy and a healthy response to stress. So next time you hit the road, or the afternoon wall, reach for Focus & Energy instead of those unhealthy beverages.
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)* is a common cognitive and behavioral condition that afflicts many kids and adults in our society.
How Do Attention Issues Affect Kids & Adults?
ADD and Kids
ADD is one of the most prevalent childhood developmental problems. Also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)*, ADD is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by pervasive problems with attention, and in many cases, impulsive and hyperactive behavior as well.
These often lead to a range of behavioral issues that can cause significant challenges in school and interfere with social development and peer interactions. Though cases continue to rise, ADD remains one of the most misunderstood and incorrectly treated cognitive and behavioral conditions today.
ADD and Adults
In many cases, the condition doesn’t end in childhood and can fly under the radar in adults who were never diagnosed by a healthcare professional in childhood. Approximately 60% of those diagnosed with ADD in childhood¹ will continue to have issues that affect their functioning as adults.
Lifelong Impact of ADD
When left untreated or unmanaged, ADD can have a detrimental effect on all areas of life throughout a person’s life, such as social connections, romantic relationships, and career and academic success. Younger children with ADD can struggle with social interactions and may instigate conflicts with their peers. Research² shows that younger children diagnosed with ADD may find it difficult to regulate their emotions, especially anger, and can have greater challenges coping with frustration than their peers.
Teens with ADD are at a higher risk for substance abuse and other risky behaviors, like unintended pregnancies and unsafe driving. A 2016 study³ published in JAMA Psychiatry noted that adults with ADHD may have a harder time functioning in daily life, have higher levels of anxiousness, and have a higher dependence on illicit drugs.
So, now that we’ve seen how ADD can affect people of all ages, let’s look at some of the common signs of the condition.
Core Symptoms of ADD
Here are just a few of the core symptoms of ADD:
A short attention span for regular, routine, everyday tasks (homework, chores, etc.)
Distractibility
Organization problems (like having a messy room, always running late, etc.)
Procrastination
Forgetfulness
Problems with follow-through
Poor impulse control (saying or doing something before thinking it through)
If you think you have ADD/ADHD, the first step in addressing your concerns is to consult with a doctor. They can help determine if you meet the clinical criteria for ADD/ADHD, and offer guidance and possible treatment recommendations.
The Good News About ADD
Symptoms of ADD can vary from person to person and include a range of types. Using breakthrough diagnostic techniques, Dr. Daniel Amen has discovered that there are 7 distinct types of ADD. Knowing your type can reduce stigma by helping you understand how your unique brain works.
What You Need to Know About the 7 Types of ADD (for Kids & Adults)
These are the identifying characteristics of the 7 types of ADD:
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Type 1
Classic ADD (ADHD)
This first type of ADD is usually evident early in life. As babies, they tend to be colicky, active, and wiggly. As children, they tend to be restless, noisy, talkative, impulsive, and demanding.
Their hyperactivity and conflict-driven behavior tends to get everyone’s attention. Classic ADD is often called ADHD, with an emphasis on the hyperactive behavior trait, but many of the ADD types aren’t hyperactive.
Parents of these kids are often tired, overwhelmed, and even embarrassed by the behavior of their non-stop and hard-to-control children. Classic ADD tends to be more frequently seen in boys. Even as adults, those with this type of ADD tend to have a great deal of energy and a preference for physical activity rather than a sedentary lifestyle.
Type 2
Inattentive ADD
Inattentive ADD is the second most common type of ADD. Those suffering with this type are usually quiet, introverted, and appear to daydream a lot. They may be labeled as unmotivated, slow, or lazy. Inattentive ADD is common but is often missed because children with this type tend to have fewer behavioral problems. They don’t draw negative attention to themselves as do those with Classic ADD.
Inattentive ADD is the perfect example of why the general term ADHD doesn’t fit all ADD types. If clinicians and parents only look for signs of hyperactivity, those with this type, which typically don’t have the hyperactive trait, may be left untreated and go on living life below their true potential.
Type 3
Overfocused ADD
To have proper focus, it’s necessary to be able to shift your attention as needed. People suffering with Overfocused ADD may have difficulty shifting their attention; they can become hyper-focused on certain things while tuning out everything else.
These folks tend to get stuck or locked into negative thought patterns and behaviors. This type of ADD is often found in substance abusers as well as the children and grandchildren of alcoholics.
Type 4
Temporal Lobe ADD
People with this type of ADD have the hallmark features of ADD plus symptoms associated with temporal lobe problems, such as issues with learning, memory, mood instability, aggression, temper outbursts, and sometimes even violence. It’s common to see this type of ADD in people who’ve suffered a head injury.
Type 5
Limbic ADD
In this type, the prefrontal cortex is underactive during concentration while the deep limbic area – which sets your emotional tone, controlling how happy or sad you are – is overactive. Overactivity in the deep limbic area is often associated with low mood.
Type 6
Ring of Fire ADD
Ring of Fire ADD has an overall hyperactive brain activity, which is a stark contrast to the other 7 types of ADD. When seen on a SPECT scan, there’s a ring of hyperactivity around the brain, hence the term “Ring of Fire.”
Those with this type tend to have difficulty “turning off” their brains and typically feel overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions. This type tends to get much worse on stimulant medications alone.
Type 7
Anxious ADD
With Anxious ADD, there’s low activity in the prefrontal cortex while there’s overactivity in the basal ganglia, which sets the body’s “idle speed.” The ADD symptoms in people suffering with this type tend to be magnified by their feelings of anxiousness. Treatment for people with Anxious ADD often includes both calming and stimulating the brain.
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Note: It’s important to know that some of the symptoms of ADD/ADHD overlap with those of other mental health conditions, and, as such, the underlying cause and appropriate treatment for each type may be completely different.
Get to Know Your Brain In a Whole New Way!
Like many other mental health conditions, ADD isn’t just a single, simple issue, and treatment shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all solution. Each of the 7 types of ADD requires a different treatment plan. What works for one person with ADD may not work for another – or could even make the symptoms worse!
If you think you or a loved one may have ADD/ADHD, be sure to consult your healthcare practitioner or download the free Getting to Know the 7 ADD Types eBook from Amen Clinics to learn more.
At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
References:
1. Harpin, V. A. (2005). The effect of ADHD on the life of an individual, their family, and community from preschool to adult life. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 90(suppl 1), i2-i7. https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2004.059006
2. Wehmeier, P. M., Schacht, A., & Barkley, R. A. (2010). Social and emotional impairment in children and adolescents with ADHD and the impact on quality of life. Journal of Adolescent Health, 46(3), 209-217. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2009.09.009
3. Agnew-Blais JC, Polanczyk GV, Danese A, Wertz J, Moffitt TE, Arseneault L. Evaluation of the Persistence, Remission, and Emergence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Young Adulthood. JAMA Psychiatry. 2016;73(7):713–720. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2016.0465
You've probably heard the term "mindfulness."
It's one of the best ways to achieve a state of calm.
Mindfulness practices, such as yoga and tai chi, can help reduce anxious and depressive thoughts and increase focus and relaxation. Mindfulness also can help protect your brain and optimize brain function.
As the organ responsible for everything you are and everything you do, it's always smart to be more mindful of your brain. More…brainful.
If you’re looking to optimize your wellness, here are 12 natural ways to improve your health by putting your brain first…
12 Ways to Remain in a Brainful State of Mind
1. Know Your Brain Type
Just as identifying your abilities, interests, and skills can help you become a more well-rounded person, knowing your Brain Type can help you better understand who you are and why you do what you do. In addition to making you more mindful of your brain, these insights can potentially impact your future career and relationships in significant ways.
2. Mindful Mentality
One of the best ways to achieve a state of calm is with mindfulness. Mindfulness exercises can help reduce mood issues and increase well-being. Well-designed human studies show that daily mindfulness can help lessen stress¹ and improve overall brain health.
3. New Normal
Perhaps you've recently experienced lifestyle changes that have impacted your focus, sleep, and mood. Or, maybe the unique stressors of these uncertain times have impaired your ability to cope, making you feel completely overwhelmed much of the time. You can’t stop what’s happening around the globe, but you can change what’s going on inside your brain to prevent fear from dominating your life.
4. Daily Routine
An effective routine is to begin each morning by saying a positive affirmation like, “Today is going to be a great day!” Such a simple sentence can cause your brain to look for ways to fulfill that affirmative statement. It also establishes a healthy thought pattern you can continue throughout the day.
5. Self-care Basics
You’ve probably heard the expression “always take care of number one.” Although that saying might not be the best advice in business, team sports, relationships, or many other areas of life, it holds a great deal of significance when it comes to your personal health. In fact, how you treat your body and brain may well determine your ability to function in an increasingly stressful world.
6. Strong Connections
Social connections can significantly affect your brain, mood, and physical health.² The health habits of the people you spend time with can have a dramatic impact on your own health. It’s wise to surround yourself with people who are happy, upbeat, kind, and who challenge you to be the best version of yourself.
7. Avoid Unhealthy Foods
Proper nutrition is essential to optimal brain function. Unfortunately, the standard American diet is filled with toxic foods that increase your risk for mental and physical problems, as well as issues with your focus, mood, and memory.
Many of these unhealthy foods are:
Highly processed
Pro-inflammatory
Pesticide sprayed
Artificially colored and sweetened
High glycemic
Low fiber
Laden with hormones
Tainted with antibiotics
In place of these harmful foods, be sure to eat a healthy diet…one that includes lean protein, high fiber, and healthy fats. Also, it’s recommended that you eat 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
8. Physical Activity
Physical activity is perhaps the single most important thing you can do to keep your brain healthy. Exercise can boost blood flow, deliver oxygen and other nutrients to the brain, and may increase your levels of dopamine. Walking at a brisk pace can help you clear your mind, decrease feelings of anxiousness, improve your mood, and burn some calories all at the same time.
9. Get Restful Sleep
Anything that disrupts your natural sleep pattern, like excessive caffeine, alcohol, or video game playing, can have adverse effects on your ability to perform tasks at work, school, or home. Insufficient and inconsistent sleep can increase irritability, moodiness, and poor judgment. To remain at the top of your game, and to be more mindful of your brain, be sure to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
10. Memory Support
One of the best ways to support your memory is to set aside some time every day for new learning. Examples: learning a new language or musical instrument, trying a new kind of dance or other complex physical activity, or taking up a new hobby like chess or painting. Researchers emphasize that the “use it or lose it” principle applies to the brain,³ so be intentional about learning new things.
11. Mood and Stress Relief
Often, there’s a correlation between being stressed out and experiencing occasional anxious thoughts or bouts of low mood. Stress can negatively affect your mood and keep your brain stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Also, stress can adversely impact the way your brain and body function, so it’s important for you to implement effective coping strategies.
12. Practice Gratitude
Research suggests that focusing on gratitude helps to calm the deep limbic areas and enhance the other judgment centers of your brain. People who express gratitude on a regular basis are healthier, more optimistic, make better progress toward their goals, have a greater sense of well-being, and are more helpful to others. Practicing gratitude first thing in the morning can improve your mood and promote feelings of contentment throughout the day.
Be More Mindful of Your Brain
Among the many benefits of practicing mindfulness is that it can help reduce stress and induce a state of calm. Also, it may increase your joy and give you a greater sense of purpose in life.
Applying these practical tips can help you become more mindful of your brain.
Take a few minutes and try one today!
At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
References:
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Mindfulness meditation: A research-proven way to reduce stress. Retrieved November 20, 2024, from https://www.apa.org/topics/mindfulness/meditation
Martino, J., Pegg, J., & Frates, E. P. (2017). The connection prescription: Using the power of social interactions and the deep desire for connectedness to empower health and wellness. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 11(6), 466–475. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827615608788
Cheng, M.-F. (2017). Adult neurogenesis in injury-induced self-repair: Use it or lose it. Brain Plasticity, 2(2), 115–126. https://doi.org/10.3233/BPL-160030
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