How to Stay Focused Naturally

In today's fast-paced, screen-based society, it seems more common than ever for us to feel a lack of focus in life. Adults and children alike seem to suffer from an inability to stay on task. We can’t focus at work. We can't focus on homework. Our eyes and attention flit from one source of stimulation to the next and we struggle to concentrate on the tasks at hand.

Why can't I focus?

If you find it difficult to concentrate and feel easily distracted, you may have a dopamine deficiency. The brain chemical dopamine affects our drive and focus. It steers motivation, attention span and the ability to feel pleasure. People with lower dopamine levels tend to experience apathy, moodiness, fatigue, low motivation, lack of focus/concentration and insomnia.
Stimulants like caffeine and sugar temporarily increase dopamine levels but they disrupt the natural processes and result in lower levels of dopamine over time.

How can I increase dopamine levels?

Do these three things and change your life:

1. Get plenty of sleep.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Add certain foods to the diet, including almonds, bananas, eggs, fish, chicken and avocados.

Colostrum: Research has shown that colostrum stimulates the brain to release serotonin and dopamine and prolong their reuptake while also reducing cortisol concentration. The lactalbumin can also improve moods during stress. This natural antidepressant activity may prove to be very valuable in reducing dependency on SSRI drugs like Prozac.
It is best to take colostrum on an empty stomach with a lot of water. Wait 20 minutes before eating anything else. If you are unable to swallow capsules then open the capsule into water and drink it down, or add it to a small amount of yogurt or applesauce. Try to avoid taking it after 3 PM as it can increase your energy.

Nature's Sunshine Products for Focus, Brain Health and Energy

• Mind-Max contains magnesium l-threonate (supports neural synapses and easily crosses the blood brain barrier) plus gotu kola, Bacopa monnieraand ginkgo. These herbs are well-known to benefit circulation and brain health. Mind-Max supports brain function, memory and concentration.
• Brain-Protex with Huperzine features ginkgo, lecithin complex and huperzine to support brain health and facilitate circulation to and within the brain. It may also help slow the breakdown of acetylcholine.
• Focus Attention powder or capsules provides powerful nutrients for quiet, balanced mental activity, including:
  • l-glutamine (supports healthy brain activity and mental ability)
  • DMAE (for memory and learning)
  • ginkgo (known for its support of brain and circulatory health)
  • lemon balm leaves (soothe nervous system)
  • grape seed extract (helps neutralize brain-damaging free radicals)
  • This focus supplement is available in bulk powder (also includes bacopa, eleuthero and B vitamins) or in capsules.
• AnxiousLess combines Sceletium tortuosum with l-theanine, thiamin, magnesium and zinc to help ease occasional anxiousness without drowsiness and promote confidence, mood and energy levels.
• Super Omega-3 EPA provides DHA and EPA, two essential fatty acids that support brain and cardiovascular health.

What else helps with memory and clear thinking?

Perhaps the number one key to maintaining memory and clarity of thought is sleep. Dr. Sahelian believes that people who suffer sleep deprivation won’t benefit from brain-boosting supplements.

Energique Homeopathic to consider

• Serotonin HP
  Aids in balancing serotonin levels, which regulate sleep patterns.


• Mentox HP
  High-potency formula indicated for sleeplessness due to sadness or worry.


• Anxiety HP
  High-potency formula for relief of anxiety and nervousness


• Adrenapar 2 oz.
  Glandular homeopathic to support the adrenal glands, indicated for symptoms of nervous exhaustion, fatigue, and forgetfulness.