Struggling with Memory? 5 Root Causes to Know
Ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you went in? Or found yourself searching for a word that was just on the tip of your tongue?
You're not alone.
Memory issues—whether it’s brain fog, forgetfulness, or trouble concentrating—are becoming increasingly common. And no, it’s not just “aging” or “mom brain.” In the world of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN), we see these symptoms as a signal: your body is out of balance, and your brain is feeling it.
Let’s take a look at why memory might be slipping—and what we do about it.
1. HPA Axis Dysfunction (aka Chronic Stress)
Stress doesn't just steal your peace—it hijacks your memory.
When cortisol levels are out of whack (too high or too low), it directly impacts your hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory. You might find yourself forgetting appointments, names, or feeling mentally scattered.
FDN Tools:
Salivary cortisol tests or DUTCH hormone panels
Lifestyle audit for hidden stressors (overexercising, under-eating, perfectionism)
2. Gut-Brain Axis Imbalance
Yes, your gut talks to your brain.
An inflamed gut = an inflamed brain. Leaky gut, candida, parasites, or even food sensitivities can lead to “leaky brain,” contributing to brain fog and memory issues. And let’s not forget that 90% of serotonin is made in the gut—mood, focus, and memory are all connected.
FDN Tools:
Stool testing (like the GI MAP)
Food sensitivity evaluations
Gut healing protocols to reduce inflammation and restore balance
3. Blood Sugar Dysregulation
If you’re skipping meals, living on caffeine, or constantly craving sugar, your blood sugar might be crashing—and so might your brain.
Fluctuating blood sugar leads to poor concentration, mood swings, and forgetfulness. Insulin resistance (pre-diabetes) is a known risk factor for cognitive decline.
FDN Tools:
Blood sugar tracking (glucose, insulin, A1c) - we work with your GP
Nutrition and lifestyle tweaks to stabilize levels
4. Nutrient Deficiencies
Your brain is a hungry organ—it needs the right fuel.
Low levels of B12, magnesium, omega-3s, zinc, choline, and vitamin D can severely impact memory and focus. Many women (especially over 40) are running low on these critical nutrients and don’t even know it.
FDN Tools:
HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis)
Blood or organic acid testing for nutrients
High-quality, targeted supplementation
5. Toxin Load
We live in a chemical soup. Mold, heavy metals, pesticides, and even personal care products can affect brain function.
If your detox pathways are sluggish—or your environment is working against you—your brain might be bearing the burden.
FDN Tools:
Mycotoxin testing
HTMA for heavy metals
Drainage + detox protocols
So, What Do We Do About It?
Once we’ve identified the root causes, we create a customized, step-by-step protocol to remove stressors, rebuild resilience, and support the brain.
Typical memory-supporting strategies include:
Supporting the adrenals with adaptogens (like ashwagandha and rhodiola)
Healing the gut with soothing herbs and strategic antimicrobials
Rebalancing blood sugar with protein-rich meals and mineral support
Optimizing detox with nutrients like glutathione, NAC, and magnesium
Boosting brain function with phosphatidylserine, lion’s mane, B12, and fish oil
And—of course—addressing the mental and emotional side. Chronic stress, unresolved trauma, or constantly being "on" can keep the brain in survival mode. We work on that too.
The Bottom Line
Memory loss isn’t something to just accept—or fear. It’s a sign your body is calling for deeper attention.
As a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, I don’t slap a band-aid on symptoms. I help you get to the why—and then guide you through the how so your body (and brain!) can heal from the inside out.
If you're feeling forgetful, foggy, or mentally drained, it’s not “just in your head.”
Let’s figure it out—together.
👉 Curious what might be at the root of your memory issues?
Start by taking my free Hormone + Energy Quiz or reach out to learn more about my root-cause approach to brain health.
