Detoxifying our brains is essential for improving cognitive health, but it is also a key component of our overall well-being, says Dr. Christine Schaffner, a board-certified naturopathic doctor.  She is the founder of the Immanence Health clinic in Seattle. Dr. Schaffner completed her undergraduate studies in Pre-medicine and Psychology at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and went on to earn her Doctorate at Bastyr University.

Through online summits, her Spectrum of Health podcast, a network of Immanence Health clinics, and renowned online programs, Dr. Schaffner goes beyond biological medicine, pulling from all systems of medicine and healing modalities–helping patients reclaim their wellness and reveal their brightest light. 

When we think about the brain, we think about blood flow going into it, but we should also think of blood flow going out, too. The glymphatic system that is in our brain was only discovered around 2015.

When we’re in deep sleep and REM sleep, our brains shrink to move lymph, basically bathing our neurons and then most importantly, removing waste. Our brains at night start emptying neurotoxins that get into it over time. These may be heavy metals, like mercury, lead, or aluminum, which present huge insults. They may be persistent, organic pollutants and other environmental toxicants. If we don’t get rid of these neurological toxins and remove the waste that builds up in our brains, it affects the health downstream of our vascular system and our overall well being.