12/19/2025
If you feel mentally fuzzy, forgetful, or like you're running on low power, your body is trying to tell you something. Brain fog is one of the most common complaints we hear, but it's rarely just about stress. Here are 5 often-overlooked causes:
- Blood sugar imbalances - Even subtle spikes and crashes throughout the day can leave your brain feeling drained. When glucose rises too fast you might feel temporarily alert... followed by a sharp dip in focus and energy. Stable blood sugar helps your brain stay sharp and steady.
- B12 & omega-3 deficiencies - These nutrients are essential for memory, cognition, and neurotransmitter function. Low levels can result in brain fog, low mood, and even anxiety. They're especially important if you're plant-based or have gut issues that impair absorption.
- Gut inflammation - When your gut is inflamed or the microbiome is imbalanced, it can trigger systemic inflammation. This is why so many people notice their focus worsen with bloating, food sensitivities, or IBS-like symptoms. Healing the gut often clears the mental fog.
- Shallow breathing - Constant low-grade stress leads to shallow, chest-based breathing which reduces oxygen flow to your brain. Less oxygen = less energy, slower thinking, and a foggy, disconnected feeling. Deep, diaphragmatic breathing improves clarity almost immediately.
- Poor sleep - You can get 8 hours of sleep and still wake up foggy if your sleep quality is off. Without enough time in deep and REM stages, your brain doesn't get the chance to detox, regulate hormones, or consolidate memories. Sleep issues tied to cortisol, blood sugar, or nervous system dysregulation are all worth investigating.
Remember: Brain fog isn't random, it's a sign your body is out of sync. When you start recognizing the patterns, you can stop guessing and start supporting your system.
