How To Improve Memory

As we age, one of the first things to go is our memory. You don’t have to be a septuagenarian to suffer from what people normally associate with old age. For example, you walk into the living but forget what you need. Or you were desperately trying to find your eyeglasses, only to have your son (embarrassingly) tell you that it’s sitting slightly above your forehead.
People who seek to improve memory are either not young, are preoccupied, or have a medical condition that’s causing the memory loss. If you’ve been suffering from short-term memory loss for sometime, the first thing you need to do is to see a doctor if you haven’t had a checkup for sometime. If you don’t suffer from any serious condition, take some vitamins and food and herbal supplements to improve memory. Here are the vitamins and foods that can help you improve memory.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are also known as fish oils or EPA-DHA. Although they are more known for their anti-inflammation properties, they are actually important for normal brain function. A decrease in your brain’s DHA levels can cause age-related Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, and dementia.

Polyphenol

Some studies suggest that Polyphenol, which is found in red grape skins and that of other plants have anti-inflammation properties and may prevent cognitive disorders.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

ALA is an excellent antioxidant that can prevent neurological diseases. Aside from supporting healthy glucose levels and insulin activity in the blood, ALA has been shown to increase antioxidant levels in various regions of the brain and to improve memory.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is THE antioxidant that is found in all tissues of the body. Low vitamin E levels have consistently been associated with an increased risk in the occurrence of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Ginkgo Biloba Extract

Ginkgo biloba extract is actually approved in Germany for treating dementia. In Canada, it is the only non-prescription product for treating dementia. Ginkgo biloba extracts improve memory and enhances mental efficiency of elderly patients who suffer from mild to moderate memory impairment.

Adaptogenic herbs

Adaptogenic herbs are actually anti-stress substances that are known to reduce the physiological effects of stress, aging, and the degeneration of the body’s neurological system. Ayurvedic herbs like ashwagandha, brahmi and holy basil are examples of adaptogenic herbs.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids occur naturally in plant pigments and they provide the bright colors of red, orange, and yellow in fruits and vegetables. Consuming carotenoids is the best protection against oxidation damage to the brain.

Folate, Vitamins B6 and B12

Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are essential for the proper functioning of the brain. A lack in these nutrients causes confusion, depression, dementia, forgetfulness, memory loss, and mood swings.