Our diet plays an integral role in how our brains work. There are certain vitamins and minerals found in food that can help boost mental functions, especially memory. However, getting these nutrients from our diet alone in the quantities needed may not be practical or even possible. The good news is that these brain powering vitamins and minerals are readily available in supplements.
Moments of forgetfulness are something that pretty much everyone experiences occasionally. However, if these become more regular we should determine why. It can be because of stress or it could also be due to aging. There are several ways that we can fight off brain decline, and one of which is through taking supplements that are known to be beneficial for brain health.
Here are different nutrients that are available as supplements that can help improve memory and lower your risk for neurodegenerative disease.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are naturally found in fish, nuts, and plant oils, such as olive oil and canola oil. There are two types of fatty acids, DHA and EPA, both of which are beneficial to the brain.
DHA is integral to the structure and function of the cell membranes of the entire body, but most especially for the cells found in the brain. It is also DHA that helps the brain make strong connections or synapses that boost overall cognitive function.
EPA is also beneficial to the brain. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that can help support brain health, especially by fighting brain damage and deterioration due to aging. The body of research on EPA concerning the brain is not as strong yet, but some studies show that EPA can help improve mood among people suffering from depression.
Research shows that taking omega-3 supplements can improve memory and thinking skills and has proven helpful for patients who are experiencing mild brain function decline.
Huperzine A
Huperzine A is a chemical derived from the Chinese club moss called Huperzia Serrata. The plant has long been part of traditional Chinese medicine, and it is believed that huperzine A can help prevent symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Huperzia A works in improving memory storage and retrieval, the most common early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. The plant extract can improve the acetylcholine neurotransmitters which can fortify the brain and improve overall brain function.
Vitamin E
One of the many benefits of vitamin E is improved brain function and memory, especially among seniors. Vitamin E is effective in slowing the effects of dementia, even for those who are already diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
However, doctors warn against taking excessively high doses of vitamin E, especially for those who have cardiovascular problems. If you intend to take more than 1,000 international units (IU) of vitamin E as a way to improve memory, it would be best to consult with your doctor first.
Acetyl-L-carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine is an amino acid that has been shown to aid metabolism and boost energy levels. However, aside from metabolic improvements, our brains can also benefit from this amino acid. Acetyl-L-carnitine supplements are known to increase alertness and help improve memory and strengthen the brain to fight age-related memory loss.
Studies show that acetyl-L-carnitine supplements slow brain decline and help prevent memory loss, especially among seniors and those who are already diagnosed with early onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
There are also studies on animals that have shown that acetyl-L-carnitine can also sharpen focus and aid in learning.
Ginkgo Biloba
Perhaps one of the most popular and commercialized brain supplement is Ginkgo Biloba. Derived from the Ginkgo Biloba tree, it has been used since the 16th century.
Ginkgo Biloba supplements are mostly known for their brain-boosting claims. It is believed that ginkgo Biloba supplements increase the blood flow to the brain, thus improving cognition and memory.
Numerous studies have also backed up this belief. A body of research shows that Ginkgo Biloba supplements can help reduce a person’s risk of age-related decline in cognitive function. There is also a study showing that Ginkgo Biloba supplements can help middle-aged and generally healthy people with their memory retention and thinking skills.
While taking supplements to improve our brain health is known to be effective, it should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle. As the name suggests, these supplements can only add to what you already have; therefore, you should also try other brain-boosting activities for a more holistic approach to brain health.
