FCS and Brain Fog: Tips and Strategies to Improve Mental Clarity

Extremely high fat levels in the blood from familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) typically causes symptoms like abdominal pain and an inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis), but FCS can also affect the way your brain works. “Brain fog is increasingly recognized as a significant and impactful symptom in individuals with FCS,” says Emelia Vanderburg Hanners, a physician assistant specializing in complex lipid disorders at VCU Health Pauley Heart Center.

While more research is needed on familial chylomicronemia syndrome and brain fog, emerging evidence points to several underlying reasons for the connection, says Vanderburg Hanners.

FCS may cause brain fog because of problems with brain blood flow and nerve damage, says Vanderburg Hanners. “One of the most direct explanations is that the extremely high levels of chylomicrons (fat particles that accumulate in the blood due to FCS) may impair blood flow in small vessels and damage small nerve fibers,” she says.

The direct reasons for brain fog in FCS aren’t fully understood, but nutrient deficiencies from severe diet restriction and frequent inflammation from recurring pancreatitis may also have an effect, says Vanderburg Hanners.

• Trouble with focus, concentration, and attention
• Confusion and forgetfulness
• Fatigue and mental exhaustion
• Lost train of thought
• Inability to think of the right words
• Slow reaction time

Whether you forget where you put your keys or you lose your train of thought in an important meeting, brain fog in FCS can have a big impact on your daily life.

Although FCS can make it hard to think and focus, you can follow these expert-backed tips for better mental clarity.

Keep Dietary Fats Under 15 Percent of Daily Calories

Such a restrictive diet can cause nutrient deficiencies, so your provider may recommend a few supplements, says Andrea Lowden, MD, a neurologist and epileptologist in private practice Irving, Texas, and an associate professor of clinical sciences at Burnett School of Medicine at TCU. “If approved by a healthcare provider, omega-3 supplements might help support brain health,” says Dr. Lowden. “Ensuring adequate intake of fat-soluble vitamins [vitamins A, D, E, and K] is also important.”

Exercise at Least 2 Hours a Week

“Light to moderate physical activity can improve circulation, support better sleep, and boost mood — all of which may help reduce brain fog,” says Lowden.

Sleep 7 to 9 Hours Every Night

• Avoid using electronic devices before bed.
• Create a consistent wind-down routine and sleep schedule.
• Cut off caffeine and alcohol in the hours before bedtime.
• Make your sleep space cozy, dark, and cool.

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, and you don’t see any improvements after implementing good sleep habits, it’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider to figure out why.

Manage Stress With Mindfulness and Therapy

• Take breaks from social media and news.
• Journal about the things that make you feel grateful.
• Connect with your community for extra support.
• Make time for relaxing activities you love.

“While there is limited guidance for progressive or persistent cognitive symptoms in FCS, individuals experiencing worsening symptoms are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional with expertise in FCS for further evaluation and support,” says Vanderburg Hanners.

It’s easy to feel lonely when living with a rare condition like FCS, and support is vital. “Living with FCS can lead to feelings of depression and social isolation, as the highly restrictive diet often makes eating a source of stress and anxiety,” says Vanderburg Hanners. “Seeking support from mental health professionals, as well as connecting with FCS-specific support groups, can be valuable in managing the emotional and psychological challenges of the condition.”

One such group, the FCS Foundation, promotes advocacy and education for people living with familial chylomicronemia syndrome. They offer FCS-friendly recipes, dietary recommendations, and informative webinars to make life easier with FCS.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) provides support for many rare conditions, including FCS. NORD offers patient assistance programs, FCS information, and access to specialized care for familial chylomicronemia syndrome. It can also assist in times of financial hardship and has a complimentary helpline for questions about FCS support or clinical trials.

• Many people with familial chylomicronemia syndrome report symptoms of brain fog, which include difficulty with attention, memory, and thinking speed.
• FCS may cause brain fog because very high triglyceride levels thicken the blood, preventing blood flow through tiny blood vessels in the brain.
• You can improve your mental clarity with familial chylomicronemia syndrome and brain fog by limiting the fat you eat, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and asking for extra support when you need it.