Cerebellum: Role in Balance & Gluten Connection. Discover symptoms of cerebellar degeneration

Welcome back to our blog series on brain health and function.

In this sixth installment, we will be discussing the cerebellum and its role in balance, dizziness, and coordination. As we age, our brains age too, and this can result in issues like poor balance and coordination, which can be a serious concern for elderly individuals. The cerebellum, located at the back of the head, is responsible for our balance and coordination. If you are experiencing worsening balance, poor coordination, and shaking in your hands, these could be signs that your cerebellum is not functioning correctly.

Unfortunately, once the cerebellum has degenerated, it is a permanent condition. However, we can take steps to prevent neurodegeneration and repair the area of the brain that is affected. One test that can indicate cerebellar degeneration is the tandem walk, where you walk heel to toe in a straight line. If you are unable to do this, it could indicate that your cerebellum is not working properly.

Another test is to touch your finger to your nose and see if you are shaking. If you are, this is another sign of cerebellum degeneration.

Gluten and Neurodegeneration

One factor that can contribute to neurodegeneration is gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, and if your body recognizes it as foreign, it can trigger an autoimmune reaction that attacks not only the gut but also the brain.

If you have antibodies against gluten, your brain can become a target, leading to degeneration and inflammation. This is because your immune system cannot distinguish between the gluten protein and the cerebellar tissue in your brain, which have similar protein chains.

This is why it is important to go gluten-free if you are experiencing neurodegeneration or memory loss.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you are experiencing balance problems, poor coordination, and shaking in your hands, it is important to seek the help of a functional medicine practitioner to restore your brain function and prevent further degeneration. By taking a polytherapy approach and going gluten-free, you can improve your brain health and prevent further damage.

Schedule a call with Dr. Hugh now to start getting the care you deserve to feel better.