Brain fog feels like a heavy cloud has invaded your mind, making it difficult to think clearly. You may not able to remember what you wanted to say or intended to do. When it lingers for any length of time, it can be very frustrating. In the extreme, it can even make it difficult, or even impossible to learn something new. These problems are bad enough when you are by yourself and can be embarrassing when you are dealing with other people.
Most of the time brain fog comes and goes; but, it can linger for some time, which carries some serious challenges.
There are supplements to clear your cloudy brain and help reduce the effects of this mental condition.
Listed below are some supplements you may want to consider (with the approval of your doctor, of course).
B Vitamins
The NIH (National Institutes of Health) lists the following as necessary B Vitamins
- B1 (thiamine)
- B2 (riboflavin)
- B3 (niacin)
- B5 (pantothenic acid)
- B6
- B7 (biotin)
- B12
- Folic acid
You can get B vitamins from proteins such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and dairy products. Leafy green vegetables, beans, and peas also have B vitamins. Many cereals and some breads have added B vitamins.

These vitamins help the body process food into energy. Specifically it aids in processing glucose, which is the primary source of fuel for your brain – so, it stands to reason that taking B Vitamin supplements will increase your brain function. This group of vitamins also help breakdown fats and proteins, which aid the normal functioning of the nervous system, plus muscle tone in the stomach and intestinal tract
Vitamin D
Web MD reports:
Your body must have vitamin D to absorb calcium and promote bone growth. Too little vitamin D results in soft bones in children (rickets) and fragile, misshapen bones in adults (osteomalacia). You also need vitamin D for other important body functions. Vitamin D deficiency has now been linked to breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease, depression, weight gain, and other maladies….. [it also] helps regulate the immune system and the neuromuscular system and plays major roles in the life cycle of human cells.”
Many people feel the effect of Vitamin D deficiency in the winter months when it is hard to get out in the sunshine. Vitamin D helps boost your mood and can possibly help counteract the effects of depression.
Magnesium
Your brain needs oxygen and nutrients in order to function properly. These are cycled through the body via the blood stream. A magnesium supplement can help improve circulation and enhance mental clarity.
There are also recent studies that support the theory that regions in the brain associated with learning and memory experience significant improvements in synaptic function as a result of magnesium dietary supplementation.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Brain tissue is largely made up of DHA which is found in Omega 3 Fatty Acids. They are necessary for human health, but the body does not produce it. You have to get it through food or supplements. Omega 3 can be found in nuts, seeds, salmon and other fish, which is why the American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week.
Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function, as well as normal growth and development. In recent years, they have become more popular because they may reduce the risk of heart disease. Fish Oil Supplements can be helpful, but be careful if you have a bleeding condition or are on blood thinners of any kind, use them only with your doctor’s approval.
Amino Acids
Amino acids are compounds that act as building blocks for proteins, according to National Institutes of Health online medical encyclopedia Medline Plus. Your body uses amino acids for a variety of purposes, such as proper brain function. There is evidence that dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin may modulate learning and memory, as well as mood, anxiety, and other aspects of mental status.
Amino acid supplements are still new, with mixed opinions from the experts. My recommendation is that you do not venture into this area without a physician’s guidance. In fact, it would be best to consult your doctor or naturopath before beginning any supplement therapy – just to be safe.
** Please note the author is not a medical professional. Every effort has been made to include accurate information, but further research and the advice of a physician is highly recommended before following any of the advice listed.