The Core of Dr. Sandison's Functional Medicine Approach
Dr. Heather Sandison's perspective on supplementation is rooted in functional medicine, a patient-centered approach that seeks to identify and address the underlying causes of disease. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, her method involves a comprehensive assessment of each patient's unique health profile, considering factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. This personalized, multimodal intervention is crucial, as her research suggests that a single-drug approach for complex conditions like cognitive decline has been largely ineffective.
She views supplements not as a standalone cure, but as a critical component of a broader strategy that also incorporates lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and sleep optimization. In her practice, nearly every patient receives a list of recommended supplements tailored to their specific needs and deficiencies. This highly customized protocol is designed to nourish the brain, reduce inflammation, and support natural detoxification processes.
Key Supplements Recommended by Dr. Sandison
Based on her extensive research and clinical experience, Dr. Sandison frequently recommends a selection of core supplements. These are typically included as part of a larger treatment plan aimed at optimizing brain health and reversing cognitive decline.
Nootropics for Cognitive Enhancement
Nootropics are a category of supplements that support and enhance cognitive function. Dr. Sandison personally takes nootropics on days when she needs to be highly focused and productive. She explains that her experience with them has shown benefits for mental clarity, mood, and sleep quality.
Common ingredients in nootropic blends include:
- Essential Nutrients: Vitamins and amino acids that support brain function.
- Healthy Fats: Lipids that are crucial for cell membrane health.
- Herbal Extracts: Botanicals known for their cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Caffeine: Often included to boost focus, but some formulations are caffeine-free.
Omega-3s and the Anti-Inflammatory Effect
Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly sourced from fish oil, are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that are vital for both brain and heart health. Dr. Sandison emphasizes that what's good for the heart is also good for the brain. The benefits include:
- Neuroinflammation Reduction: Mitigating inflammation in the brain linked to cognitive decline.
- Cellular Flexibility: Building cellular membranes that allow brain cells to function efficiently.
- Overall Brain Structure: Supporting the structural integrity of brain cells.
Vitamin D with K for Brain and Bone Synergy
Dr. Sandison highlights the significant role of fat-soluble vitamins, specifically Vitamin D with K, in maintaining overall health and their direct connection to brain function. Higher circulating levels of both vitamins are associated with better cognitive function. Vitamin K is particularly important as it helps direct calcium into the bones, working alongside Vitamin D.
The Gut-Brain Axis with Probiotics
Recognizing the crucial connection between the gut and the brain, Dr. Sandison recommends probiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut can positively impact mental well-being and aid in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates mood and cognition.
Digestive Enzymes for Nutrient Absorption
As part of her integrative approach, Dr. Sandison includes digestive enzymes to assist with nutrient absorption. With age, the body's production of digestive acids decreases, so supplementing can help ensure the brain receives all the necessary nutrients.
Supplementation in the Context of a Lifestyle Protocol
Dr. Sandison's clinical trials and work at the Marama residential facility demonstrate that supplements are most effective when combined with other therapeutic interventions. Her multimodal approach addresses various contributing factors to cognitive decline.
Key pillars of her lifestyle protocols include:
- Dietary Modifications: Focusing on anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diets, such as a ketogenic approach, to optimize brain metabolism.
- Toxin Mitigation: Identifying and removing toxins like heavy metals and mold from the environment, and supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways with supplements like binders and glutathione.
- Sleep Optimization: Emphasizing sleep hygiene and addressing issues like sleep apnea to improve sleep quality and duration.
- Exercise Routines: Tailoring physical activity to enhance blood flow and promote the growth of new brain cells.
Comparing Dr. Sandison's Approach to Conventional Methods
| Feature | Dr. Sandison's (Functional) Approach | Conventional Medicine |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Identifying and addressing underlying root causes (e.g., nutrition, toxins, infections). | Symptom management, often with a monotherapeutic (single drug) approach. |
| Supplement Use | Integral part of a personalized, multi-therapeutic protocol. | Often seen as secondary or unsupported by extensive research, with limited or no specific recommendations. |
| Strategy | Multi-faceted, integrating supplements with lifestyle, diet, and environmental interventions. | Primarily relies on pharmaceuticals, with other interventions sometimes suggested but not central to the protocol. |
| Goal | Improve cognitive function and quality of life, with potential for reversal of decline. | Primarily to slow the progression of symptoms. |
Safety and Consultation: The Non-Negotiable Step
Throughout her recommendations, Dr. Sandison consistently stresses the importance of consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. This is crucial for several reasons:
- Dosage and Appropriateness: A professional can determine the correct dosage and if a supplement is appropriate for your specific health needs.
- Drug Interactions: Certain supplements can interact negatively with prescription medications. For example, some nootropics may have dangerous interactions with psychiatric drugs.
- Personalized Needs: As her work with Marama and her clinical practice demonstrates, the most effective supplement protocols are highly individualized based on testing and assessment.
Conclusion: The Role of Supplements in an Integrative Strategy
Dr. Sandison's opinion on supplements is clear: they are a powerful and meaningful tool for supporting cognitive health when used as part of a personalized, holistic, and evidence-based treatment plan. Her functional medicine philosophy emphasizes addressing the multifactorial nature of cognitive decline, combining targeted supplementation with significant lifestyle and environmental changes. While key supplements like nootropics, Omega-3s, and Vitamins D and K are central to her recommendations, their efficacy is amplified by a comprehensive approach that also considers detoxification and gut health. Crucially, she maintains that all supplementation should be undertaken with professional medical guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Visit Dr. Heather Sandison's resource page for more information
