Supporting Brain Function with Targeted Technologies
How Advanced Therapies May Support Cognition When Used Strategically
Naturopath Jennifer Harrington explores how selected technologies may support brain function, energy, and recovery when used in the right context.
In Part 1, we explored how APOE4 is influenced by the environment, not just genetics.
In Part 2, we looked at how symptoms can begin to appear, and how nutrition and lifestyle form the foundation for change.
This is where Part 3 comes in.
Because once those foundations are in place, the next question becomes:
How can we support the brain more directly?
Technology: The Right Tool at the Right Time
At Mito Core, technology is never the starting point.
It’s layered on once we understand what is driving dysfunction.
When used appropriately, these therapies may support:
cellular energy
oxygen delivery
circulation
nervous system regulation
Oxygen and Brain Function
Reduced oxygen delivery and utilisation are common features in cognitive decline.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been studied for its potential to support brain function, with research suggesting improvements in cerebral blood flow and aspects of cognition in some populations.
At Mito Core, when appropriate, we may incorporate air breaks within HBOT sessions to introduce brief changes in oxygen levels, mimicking some of the adaptive effects seen in intermittent hypoxia training, while still maintaining the overall benefits of hyperbaric oxygen.
Intermittent hypoxia–hyperoxia training (IHHT), used in systems such as ReOxy, works differently, training the body to become more efficient at using oxygen.
Emerging research suggests IHHT may support:
working memory and cognitive control
vascular function and blood flow
resilience to low-oxygen stress
These mechanisms are particularly relevant in individuals with a history of concussion, metabolic dysfunction, or sleep apnoea, where oxygen utilisation is often impaired.
Light Therapy: Energy and Mood
Photobiomodulation (red and near-infrared light therapy) works at the level of the mitochondria.
It may support:
enhancing cellular energy production
improving blood flow and circulation
reducing inflammation
stimulating cellular repair mechanisms
reducing oxidative stress
These effects are not limited to one area of the body. Light therapy influences systemic physiology, particularly mitochondrial activity, circulation, and inflammatory pathways, all of which are closely linked to brain function.
Research shows that photobiomodulation can enhance mitochondrial activity and reduce neuroinflammation, key mechanisms involved in cognitive performance and neurological health.
In addition, studies have reported improvements in mood, anxiety, and overall well-being, highlighting the close relationship between energy production, brain chemistry, and emotional health
High-Intensity PEMF: Supporting the Cellular Environment
At Mito Core, we utilise high-intensity, full-body pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, which works at a deeper physiological level.
PEMF may support:
enhancing cellular metabolism and communication
improving blood flow and circulation
enhancing tissue oxygenation
supporting inflammatory balance
Clinically, it is used to support the cellular environment in which the brain operates, particularly where energy, oxygenation, and resilience are reduced.
Some studies have also demonstrated that PEMF may support recovery following neurological stress and may influence mood and cognitive performance.
Brain Entrainment and Stress Resilience
Alongside PEMF, we use technologies that work more directly with the nervous system, our iMRS brain entrainment system and our Vibrosound therapy.
These systems are designed to help regulate brainwave activity and support a shift into parasympathetic (rest-and-repair) states.
Research suggests potential benefits for:
sleep quality
stress reduction
mood regulation
By helping the nervous system move out of a chronic stress response, these therapies may indirectly support cognitive clarity and recovery.
HOCATT and Toxic Load
Where toxicity is a contributing factor, such as mould exposure, environmental chemicals, or heavy metals, supporting the body’s internal environment may play an important role in cognitive function.
The HOCATT system combines elements such as sauna therapy, ozone, carbonic acid, and frequency-based support to help promote circulation, lymphatic flow, and sweating. These processes may assist the body’s natural ability to process and eliminate toxins.
While not a standalone solution, HOCATT may be a useful adjunct in individuals where toxic load is impacting energy, inflammation, or cognitive clarity, helping to create a more supportive environment for brain health.
Bringing It All Together
Technology can be powerful, but only when layered onto the right foundation.
Without addressing:
nutrition
sleep
metabolic health
inflammation
…the impact of devices will always be limited.
But when used strategically, they may help:
support recovery
enhance cellular function
improve resilience
Final Thoughts
Across this series, one message remains consistent:
APOE4 is not a fixed outcome.
It is influenced by the environment in which it exists.
Technology is simply another tool within that environment.
Used well, it may support the brain in doing what it is designed to do:
adapt, repair, and function at its best.
References
Dale Bredesen D. (2014). Reversal of cognitive decline: A novel therapeutic program. Aging (Albany NY), 6(9), 707–717.
Oxygen-Based Therapies (HBOT & IHHT)
Hadanny, A., & Efrati, S. (2020). The hyperoxic–hypoxic paradox. Biomedicines, 8(12), 544.
Efrati, S., et al. (2021). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases brain perfusion and improves cognitive function in patients with cognitive decline. Aging, 13(17).
Serebrovska, T. V., et al. (2019). Intermittent hypoxia–hyperoxia training improves exercise tolerance and cognitive function in elderly individuals. Experimental Gerontology.
Dudnik, E., et al. (2023). Intermittent hypoxia exposure and cognitive performance under stress conditions. Frontiers in Physiology.
Photobiomodulation (Red/Near-Infrared Light Therapy)
Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics, 4(3), 337–361.
Salehpour, F., et al. (2018). Photobiomodulation therapy for neurological disorders. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 85, 256–267.
Naeser, M. A., et al. (2016). Improved cognitive function after photobiomodulation treatment. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery.
PEMF
Ross, C. L., et al. (2015). Electromagnetic field therapy in neurological disorders. Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine.
Pilla, A. A. (2013). Electromagnetic fields modulate nitric oxide signaling. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.
Funk, R. H. W., et al. (2009). Electromagnetic effects—from cell biology to medicine. Progress in Histochemistry and Cytochemistry.
Brain Entrainment /Neuroacoustic Therapy
Huang, T. L., & Charyton, C. (2008). A comprehensive review of brainwave entrainment. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine.
Garcia-Argibay, M., et al. (2019). Efficacy of binaural beats in cognition, anxiety, and pain perception. Psychological Research.