Brain Health

Someone in the world develops dementia every three seconds, a staggering statistic from Alzheimer’s Disease International. As an integrative medicine specialist, Michelle Sandwisch, ARNP, FNP-C, understands that protecting your brain health is essential to prevent and slow the progression of cognitive decline. Michelle utilizes functional medicine techniques, such as the Bredesen Protocol, at Origin Medicine in Tacoma, Washington, to ensure holistic brain health care. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What does brain health mean?

Brain health encompasses various aspects of brain function, including cognitive skills, emotional well-being, and the ability to effectively carry out daily activities. Maintaining good brain health is crucial for your quality of life, as the brain controls and coordinates all bodily functions, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

With a functional approach to care, Michelle works with you to prevent cognitive decline, strengthen your memory, and improve your overall brain health.  

What conditions can affect brain health?

Many conditions can affect brain health, including:

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

MCI doesn’t interfere with a person’s daily activities, but it can cause memory loss and is often a precursor to more severe forms of dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease

This progressive neurodegenerative disorder affects memory, thinking skills, and behavior. It’s the most common and well-known type of dementia.

Vascular cognitive impairment

This cognitive disorder occurs after a stroke or another vascular disorder. Reduced blood flow to the brain can lead to cognitive impairments that interfere with your daily function.

Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive movement disorder that leads to cognitive decline, memory problems, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

How do you assess brain health?

At Origin Medicine, Michelle follows the Bredesen Protocol to assess brain health. Popular components of this program include:

ReCODE Report™

Dr. Bredesen’s proprietary ReCODE Report is a specific set of lab and genome tests that evaluates your current state of cognitive decline and identifies drivers contributing to your condition. The software highlights your exact areas of concern and provides personalized recommendations on addressing each issue.

The Prevention Program

Michelle aims to stabilize your metabolic health to protect your cognitive function if you have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

The Reversal Program

This plan can help reverse the effects of early cognitive decline and improve your brain health.

How can I improve my brain health?

Origin Medicine offers many functional medicine treatments to improve brain health and cognitive function, such as:

• Metagenics® supplements
• Pure Encapsulations hypoallergenic, research-based supplements
• ProLon® Fasting Mimicking Diet to reduce inflammation
• Nutritional counseling
• Lifestyle counseling
• Exercise support
• Prescription medications
• Stress reduction techniques

Michelle tracks and monitors your progress, adjusting your plan as needed to address brain health and cognitive function changes. Call Origin Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.