Brain Fog as an Adaptive Cognitive Strategy: Theoretical Reconstruction and Model Construction

Non-clinical brain fog remains theoretically underdeveloped despite its prevalence. Existing pathological explanations often attribute brain fog to neuroinflammation or neural damage. However, these explanations do not fully account for the transient cognitive changes reported by healthy individuals. This paper proposes the adaptive cognitive strategy hypothesis, postulating that functional brain fog emerges from dynamic resource reallocation rather than systemic impairment. By synthesizing cognitive resource allocation theory with the dual-network model (DMN-CEN), we construct a dual-type adaptive model. This framework distinguishes between "shallow-use" states (induced by high-frequency digital stimuli) and "focused-consciousness" states (a byproduct of intensive cognitive engagement). The framework is discussed in relation to existing theories of neuroplasticity, and specific, falsifiable predictions are provided to guide subsequent empirical validation.