Epilepsy Insight #8: Blood Brain Barrier

What is the Blood Brain Barrier? More importantly, how does this “barrier” relate to directly to your seizure activity?

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Why is it that some people have seizures, but others do not?? ✨✨✨ Why are some people allergic to certain foods, but others can eat those same foods without experiencing a reaction? ✨✨✨ I have three words for you: Blood Brain Barrier… ✨✨✨ In this week’s Epilepsy Insight video I am going to discuss this semi-permeable layer found in the human brain and the consequences that follow suit if it becomes easily permeated. ✨✨✨ Watch Epilepsy Insight #9 this Thursday to learn more about the Blood Brain Barrier and to hear my answers to the questions above. ✨✨✨ #seizethedayblog #epilesyinsights #9 #bloodbrainbarrier #seizures #epilepsy #catamenialepilepsy #brain

A post shared by Katie | Seize The Day Blog (@seizethedayblog) on Apr 7, 2020 at 2:37pm PDT

For starters, the Blood Brain Barrier is a tight-knit wall of Endtholelial Cells separating your brain from your bloodstream. The purpose of this separation is to prevent unwanted molecules floating in your bloodstream from crossing over into your brain.

If unwanted molecules or toxins are able to cross this barrier, it could mean damage to your brain as well as increased seizure activity.

Our greatest concern is the fact that the Blood Brain Barrier can become weakened, this is also called Blood Brain Barrier Degradation or Leaky Blood Brain Barrier. When your barrier becomes weakened, it is unable to prevent all unwanted molecules from reaching your brain. The result of which is an increase in bodily sensitivity. You will find that you are much more sensitive to foods, products, etc. because your brain is no longer protected from the unwanted molecules found in these locations and many more. In addition, your brain will only become more sensitive when it is continually exposed to these toxins on a daily basis.

The good news is there are holistic methods to build your Blood Brain Barrier back up to its original strength. The holisitic path involves vitamins and minerals, Vitamin D and Vitamin B are each incredibly important for a strong Blood Brain Barrier. However, you must do your part in changing your routine to help protect your brain from toxin exposure. Reduce your intake of processed foods filled with chemical ingredients, go organic so that you can eliminate your exposure to pesticides, and pay more attention to the ingredient list on each of your cosmetic and toiletry products. This simply step will make a huge difference because you will be eliminating a primary source for unwanted molecules/toxins.

In Epilepsy Insight #9, I discuss how the Blood Brain Barrier has affected my own seizure activity and I explain in greater detail the influence this barrier has on long-term brain health.