How Functional Medicine Helps Support Alzheimer’s and Dementia-Related Problems
Memory changes can be unsettling. Forgetting names, losing your train of thought, or misplacing items often happens, especially for adults aged 50–80. These concerns deserve a thoughtful, whole-person approach. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are complex and lack a single fix. However, our functional medicine doctor in Grand Rapids, MI, can effectively support brain health by addressing the root causes that affect memory, focus, and daily life.
At the Advanced Integrative Health Center, we seek the “why” behind cognitive decline. Then, we create a personalized plan to enhance the body systems that support the brain.
Why Functional Medicine Matters for Brain Health
differs from symptom-only care. Instead of asking, “What drug fits this diagnosis?” we ask, “What is causing this problem for this person?” The brain is sensitive to inflammation, blood sugar levels, hormone changes, nutrient gaps, poor sleep, chronic stress, and circulation issues. Over time, these imbalances can harm memory, energy, mood, and clarity.
In short: brain health is whole-body health.
Common “Root Issues” Linked to Memory and Cognitive Decline
In our clinic, we often explore several key areas linked to cognitive decline:
Blood Sugar and Metabolic Health
Insulin resistance and high blood sugar can damage the brain over time. Many don’t realize that “pre-diabetes” can affect memory, brain energy, and inflammation. emphasizes nutrition, exercise, and lab work to improve metabolic function—often a crucial step for cognitive support.
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation acts like a slow-burning fire in the body. It can stem from poor diet, obesity, gut issues, infections, toxins, and unmanaged stress. Reducing inflammation supports the heart, joints, and brain.
Gut Health and Nutrient Absorption
The gut and brain are in constant communication through the gut-brain axis. Poor digestion, imbalanced gut bacteria, or food sensitivities can raise inflammation and lower nutrient absorption. We often assess digestion history and key nutrients vital for brain function.
Sleep Quality and Breathing
Sleep is when the brain clears waste and strengthens memory. Poor sleep or sleep apnea can worsen brain fog and speed up decline. Improving sleep routines, stress management, and breathing can greatly enhance quality of life.
Deficiencies Affecting the Nervous System
Low levels of nutrients like B vitamins (including B12), vitamin D, omega-3s, magnesium, and antioxidants can hurt brain performance. Functional medicine uses targeted testing to find gaps and address them safely.
What Care Looks Like at the Advanced Integrative Health Center
At the Advanced Integrative Health Center, our approach is practical and personalized.
Based on your needs, we may include:
- Detailed health history review (memory, mood, sleep, balance, energy)
- Advanced lab testing to check metabolic markers, inflammation, nutrient status, and brain-related risks
- Nutrition strategies for brain support (stable blood sugar, anti-inflammatory foods, healthy fats, and enough protein)
- Lifestyle coaching for movement, sleep habits, and stress management
- Supplement recommendations when appropriate, which are based on your lab results, goals, and medication
- Care coordination to help you understand what to discuss with your primary care provider or specialist
Our goal is not to replace your medical care. We aim to add missing pieces—the lifestyle, metabolic, and functional drivers often overlooked.
The Goal: More Good Days and Better Function
Functional medicine for Alzheimer’s and dementia-related issues focuses on what the brain needs to function well.
Many patients and families seek:
- Clearer thinking and more daily energy
- Improved sleep and mood stability
- Fewer crashes from blood sugar swings
- Better resilience and steadier routines
- A proactive, not passive, plan
Ready for a Brain Health Plan?
If you’re 50–80 and worried about memory changes—or if you’re supporting a loved one—functional medicine can offer a clear path forward. At the Advanced Integrative Health Center, we create personalized brain-support plans that address inflammation, metabolism, nutrition, and sleep.
Book a 12-Point Functional Exam
Dr. John Owings is proud to serve as your local and trusted functional medicine doctor in Grand Rapids, MI. To book a 12-point functional exam, please call the Advanced Integrative Health Center at (616) 453-0600. You may also contact us online and our team will get back to you soon.
