You may have an imbalance in your brain chemistry if you are experiencing mood changes, fatigue, cognitive or memory impairment, mood changes, sexual dysfunction, or insomnia. Dr. Andre Berger, an experienced Cosmetic Surgeon in Los Angeles, CA can test you for chemical balances, and can also prescribe treatments such as hormone replacement therapy, nutritional supplements, or dietary supplements to help treat brain fog.
There are four regions of the brain, each having a primary chemical or neurotransmitter that is responsible for specific brain functions. With deficient levels of these chemicals, you may see changes in motivation, mental acuity, and mood. Left untreated or ignored, these can develop into serious medical conditions that will require medical intervention. Contact Dr. Berger if you are experiencing symptoms of brain fog or imbalances in LA.
The primary neurotransmitters are serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and acetylcholine. These chemicals are derived from protein precursors or amino acids that can be obtained from the diet and natural supplements. This combination—supplements and diet—in concert with hormone replacement therapy can reduce inflammation, restore and improve brain functions, repair nerve cells and prevent future damage.
Here is a list of the neurotransmitters, their functions, and some characteristics of each.
Dopamine – Brain Energy, Motivation and Creativity
Symptoms of deficiency:
Cravings for sugar or caffeine
Lightheadedness
Fatigue
Weight gain
Low energy
Diminished libido
Decreased motivation
Memory changes
Sleep problems
Lack of initiative
Increased consumption of alcohol and drugs
Gaba – Brain Rhythm or Calm
Symptoms of deficiency:
Trembling, twitching
Cravings for carbohydrates
Insomnia
Anxiety
Hyperventilation
Cold or clammy hands
Palpitations or rapid pulse
Ringing in the ears, butterflies in the stomach, lump in the throat
What exactly is brain fog, and how is it different from other cognitive issues?
I think of brain fog as that cloudy-headed sensation when thinking feels slow and fuzzy. It’s not a formal neurologic diagnosis, but a cluster of symptoms that interfere with daily mental clarity. It commonly includes confusion, trouble focusing, forgetfulness, and a sluggish thought process. Unlike dementia or other progressive cognitive disorders, brain fog is typically transient and reversible once the underlying cause is addressed.
What are the most common symptoms of brain fog that I should watch for?
I’d say the big signs are difficulty concentrating, confusion, mental fatigue, irritability, forgetfulness, and trouble finding the right words. You might also feel like your thinking is slower than usual or that your mind just blanks out occasionally. If these disruptions are making everyday tasks feel harder, brain fog could be the culprit.
How do neurotransmitter imbalances contribute to brain fog?
Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, and acetylcholine are essential messengers that help with memory, focus, and mental speed, so when their levels or function are off, cognition can feel “off.” Imbalanced neurotransmitter activity (due to stress, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies) slows down neural communication and contributes to that foggy feeling. Restoring balance supports clarity and mental energy.
How do you assess brain chemistry and determine neurotransmitter deficiencies at your clinic?
We start with a detailed evaluation, looking at your symptoms, lifestyle habits, diet, sleep patterns, and stress levels and may run specific labs to check nutrient levels or markers linked to brain function. Some patients benefit from neurotransmitter metabolite testing, cognitive assessments, and inflammation panels. All of this helps me tailor interventions, like diet, supplements, or lifestyle shifts, to rebalance brain chemistry. It’s a personalized journey rooted in evidence.
How can diet and supplements help improve brain function and reduce fog?
A whole-foods, nutrient-dense diet, rich in omega-3s (like fatty fish), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and complex carbs, supports neurotransmitter production and fights inflammation. Supplements like omega-3s, magnesium, B-complex, vitamin D, and vitamin C can further support brain health by reducing oxidative stress and supplying essential cofactors for cognitive processing. Certain botanicals or nootropics (like citicoline) may boost memory and clarity when used thoughtfully. Always pair them with lifestyle improvements for the best results.
What role does inflammation play in cognitive issues, and how is it addressed?
I’ve seen how ongoing inflammation, triggered by stress, poor diet, or gut issues, can disrupt neural pathways and slow cognitive function. Targeting it with an anti-inflammatory diet, stress reduction, and supplements like omega-3s or antioxidants can help lift that brain fog. Addressing gut health (because of the gut-brain axis) is also key, since gut-based inflammation can impact brain function. Overall, reducing inflammation often leads to noticeable improvements in mental clarity.
How does your brain balance assessment work and what should I expect during the process?
We begin with a thorough intake, reviewing your memory, focus, sleep, diet, stress, and mood, then may add targeted testing (like nutrient panels or inflammatory markers) to identify any underlying contributors. You’ll complete questionnaires or cognitive tasks to help track where you’re struggling. From there, I craft a personalized plan including nutrition, sleep hygiene, stress reduction, and supplement support as needed. We then monitor your progress and adjust based on how clearly your mind responds to the interventions.
How quickly can patients expect to see results from brain fog treatment?
For many, improvements like sharper focus or better sleep start showing up within a few weeks if diet, sleep, and stress interventions are implemented consistently. Supplements such as omega-3s or magnesium may support circuit function and mood in days to weeks. For more entrenched causes (like long COVID or chronic inflammation), meaningful changes might take a few months of steady, integrated care. Regular follow-ups help us fine-tune your plan and keep momentum going.
What kinds of lifestyle changes can help prevent brain fog from recurring?
Consistency with sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress management is essential. I always recommend routines that support brain function long-term. Regular breaks, mindfulness, and limiting screen time help preserve mental energy and clarity. Supporting gut and metabolic health, via probiotic-rich foods or balanced meals, keeps inflammation in check and helps prevent fog from returning. Monitoring personal triggers and staying proactive in self-care makes all the difference.
Is brain fog reversible, and can most people fully recover with treatment?
Yes, in most cases, brain fog is reversible, especially when it's rooted in lifestyle factors, inflammation, or nutrient gaps. With a tailored plan, including dietary shifts, sleep optimization, stress reduction, and supplementation, most people regain complete clarity. Even chronic or complex cases, like long COVID, often show significant recovery with sustained, multifactorial interventions. As long as the underlying causes are addressed, the brain can heal and function clearly again.
At Rejuvalife Vitality Institute in LA, Dr. Berger uses a brain balance assessment to determine your brain chemistry, as well as any deficiencies in the level of neurotransmitters. He can then customize a therapeutic plan to help you regain your brain balance.
With over 25 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Berger has geared his practice towards the soothing and therapeutic side of cosmetic medicine. By specializing in anti-aging treatment along with cosmetic enhancement, his goal is to help each patient live a long, healthy, and beautiful life. Call us, or complete the form on this page.
