Memory loss is a worry for all of us, especially when we get older in years. One of the worst and cruelest conditions is alzeimers and dementia.
Here we look at some of the supplements on the market that have recieved some very positive research where brain health and memory are concerned. If you are worried about your mental health then this is worth a read.
Phosphatidylserine (PS)
PS is the major phospholipid in the brain and is embedded in cell membranes, and along with other phospholipids, makes up the basic structural components of the cell membrane. These membrane phospholipids play an important role in cell to cell communication, membrane fluidity, and transfer of biochemical messages into the cell, which trigger cellular responses. Numerous clinical trials have established that PS exerts significant benefit for cognitive functioning, especially those functions which tend to decline with age, including memory, learning, vocabulary skills, and concentration.It is suggested that PS affects hypothalamic release of corticotropin-releasing factor, an activator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in response to stress. This may provide some insight into the effect of PS on depression, as hypercortisolism is a common finding in depression.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine ( ALC)
ALC is derived from the amino acid l-carnitine and is an active antioxidant protecting the cell membranes of neurons against free radical attacks. In addition, ALC promotes phospholipid metabolism and enhances brain energy production. ALC facilitates the uptake of acetyl CoA into the mitochondria during fatty acid oxidation, enhances acetylcholine production, and stimulates protein and membrane phospholipid synthesis. Studies have shown ALC may be of benefit in treating Alzheimer’s disease, depression in the elderly, ischemia and reperfusion of the brain, and cognitive impairment due to alcoholism.
L-Theanine
L-theanine is a unique amino acid present almost exclusively in the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). In the brain, L-theanine increases dopamine and serotonin production. L- theanine increases alpha-brain wave activity, a sign of induced relaxation. A small Japanese study of university students showed oral L-theanine administration of 200 mg led to increased alpha- brain waves and a subjective sense of relaxation. Theanine administration caused a dose- dependent relaxed, yet alert, state of mind without sedation, beginning approximately 40 minutes after oral dosing. Green tea is often used as a relaxing beverage, although it can contain more caffeinethancoffee. The anin eappears to counteract the stimulant effect of caffeine to some degree.
Beetroot
High concentrations of nitrates are found in beets, as well as in celery, cabbage and other leafy green vegetables like spinach and some lettuce. When you eat high-nitrate foods, good bacteria in the mouth turn nitrate into nitrite. Research has found that nitrites can help open up the blood vessels in the body, increasing blood flow and oxygen specifically to places that are lacking oxygen.
Choline
High concentrations of nitrates are found in beets, as well as in celery, cabbage and other leafy green vegetables like spinach and some lettuce. When you eat high-nitrate foods, good bacteria in the mouth turn nitrate into nitrite. Research has found that nitrites can help open up the blood vessels in the body, increasing blood flow and oxygen specifically to places that are lacking oxygen.
L-Tyrosine
There are many different L-tyrosine memory benefits that you can utilize, but only if they actually work! Too many supplements are full of hype and do not actually deliver on the given objective. When it comes to L-tyrosine, that is a product that will help you to improve dopamine and adrenaline in the brain, which are both useful for helping to retain memory.
Green Tea
Green tea has been hailed for many health benefits, including its effects against cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Now, new research suggests the beverage can enhance our brain’s cognitive functions, particularly the working memory.The research team – including Prof. Christoph Beglinger and Prof. Stefan Borgwardt of the University Hospital of Basel in Switzerland – says their findings suggest that Green Tea could be promising in the treatment of cognitive impairments associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, such as dementia
Grape Seed
Not only are users in the nootropic community looking to boost their cognitive abilities, but their overall brain health as well. Luckily, there are some supplements which provide you with both benefits. Grape seed extract is a prime example, as it’s known for its nutritional benefits, as well as its cognitive effects. Not only does this extract help prevent free-radical brain damage, but it also helps improve one’s memory, while reducing stress and inflammation in the brain. It is also being studied for its potential life extension and anti-aging effect
L-Arginine
L-arginine, a precursor of nitric oxide, plays a prominent role in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of severe memory loss and intellectual deterioration in the elderly. The disease is thought to involve disruption of neurotransmitters in the brain. In a 2008 study published in “International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pathology,” Dr. Jing Yi found that L-arginine could affect the origination and development of Alzheimer’s.
Ginkgo Biloba
The memory enhancing effects of ginkgo are not limited to the elderly. In a double blind trial, the reaction time in healthy young women performing memory tests was significantly enhanced after the administration of ginkgo.
Taurine plays a part in many aspects of good health. It’s essential for a healthy heart, brain, bones, vision, hearing, and more. It’s best-understood function is in creating bile, which is needed to metabolize fats. It’s thought to increase physical stamina and enhance athletic performance.
