Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations for a Healthy Cerebellum
Your cerebellum is a small but powerful part of your brain. Though compact, it contains more neurons than the rest of your brain combined! This dense network of neurons plays a critical role in coordinating movement, balance, eye tracking, cognition, emotions, and learning. Essentially, it helps everything in your brain and body work smoothly together.
Because the cerebellum is so vital, maintaining its health should be a priority throughout life. Let’s explore key dietary and lifestyle factors that influence cerebellar function, based on research by Dr. Datis Kharrazian.
Gluten and Cerebellar Ataxia: A Hidden Connection
One major threat to cerebellar health is gluten—particularly a protein in wheat called gliadin. Many people are familiar with celiac disease, where gluten triggers an autoimmune response, but even those without celiac disease can experience neurological effects.
Dr. Kharrazian explains that gluten ataxia is an immune-mediated condition where antibodies against gliadin mistakenly attack the cerebellum. This can lead to inflammation, damage to Purkinje cells (key neurons in the cerebellum), and long-term degeneration.
A study cited in his research found that among 10,000 neurology referrals:
40% of patients with unexplained ataxia had anti-gliadin antibodies.
34% of those with peripheral neuropathy showed the same antibodies.
Even 17% of healthy blood donors had measurable immune reactions to gliadin.
This suggests a significant link between gluten sensitivity and neurological dysfunction. If your child struggles with balance, coordination, learning, or behavior, eliminating gluten could be a simple yet powerful intervention.
Key Takeaway: Removing wheat and gluten from your diet is one of the most impactful steps you can take for cerebellar health.
Thyroid Hormones: Essential for Brain Function
Thyroid hormones are crucial for brain growth, repair, and function. They regulate:
Neurogenesis (new brain cell formation)
Neuronal migration and connectivity
Myelination (the protective coating around nerves)
If thyroid function is too high (hyperthyroidism) or too low (hypothyroidism), it can interfere with cerebellar health and overall brain function. If you suspect thyroid issues, proper testing and treatment are essential.
Key Takeaway: Supporting healthy thyroid function is critical for brain development, healing, and long-term neurological health.
Blood Sugar Balance and Brain Health
Blood sugar regulation is another major factor in cerebellar health. Chronic high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can both contribute to neuronal damage.
High blood sugar leads to chronic inflammation, which harms brain cells.
Low blood sugar deprives the brain of the energy it needs to function.
According to Dr. Kharrazian’s research, blood sugar imbalances are linked to cerebellar degeneration. This is why monitoring and stabilizing blood sugar is essential.
Dietary tips for blood sugar balance:
Avoid processed sugars and artificial sweeteners.
Eliminate or limit processed foods with hidden sugars (e.g., flavored milk, cereals).
Focus on whole, organic foods with healthy fats and proteins.
Choose organic, grass-fed meats whenever possible.
Key Takeaway: Stable blood sugar levels help protect cerebellar function and overall brain health.
Toxins That Damage the Cerebellum
Many environmental toxins and medications can negatively impact the cerebellum. Some of the most harmful include:
Medications to Be Aware Of:
Anticonvulsants
Chemotherapy drugs (antineoplastics)
Lithium salts
Amiodarone (a heart medication)
If you take any of these, discuss potential neurological effects with your doctor.
Heavy Metals & Environmental Toxins
The most neurotoxic metals include:
Mercury
Lead
Manganese
Aluminum
Thallium
Germanium
Uranium
Vanadium
Other chemicals to avoid:
Industrial solvents
Carbon monoxide
Pesticides and herbicides
How to Reduce Exposure:
Eat organic whenever possible.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
Be mindful of what you put in and on your body.
Key Takeaway: Reducing exposure to toxins helps preserve cerebellar health and prevents long-term neurological damage.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your cerebellum isn’t just about movement and coordination—it affects your thinking, emotions, and overall well-being. Simple changes like eliminating gluten, supporting thyroid function, stabilizing blood sugar, and reducing toxin exposure can have profound effects on your brain health.
These strategies have made a huge difference in my own health and in the lives of my patients. By making informed choices, you can protect and optimize your brain function for years to come!
Kharrazian, D. (2014). Neuroendocrine-Immunology Mechanisms of Subtle Cerebellum Impairment. Functional Neurology, Rehabilitation, and Ergonomics, 4.