You used to be as sharp as a tack. Funny, now you can\’t remember what you went into the kitchen to do! You begin to worry that you are losing it, but you quickly brush it off as being a little tired. You sit down to read the newspaper, but then drift off midway through thinking about your next day’s plans. What is going on here? Why can’t I remember? Why can’t I concentrate?
As we age this becomes a common scenario, but this can also happen during times of conflict, depression and just our busy day-to-day life happenings.
Below is a brief listing of just some of the vitamin supplementation that can help you to improve your memory, concentration and focus.
Vitamins B6, B12, and folate: These vitamins are all essential for the brain to function at optimal design. If you do not satisfy your body with them you could experience symptoms that would result in a decreased memory, forgetfulness, a mood change, sensory misconception, a state of depression, periods of confusion and even some dementia likeness.
Vitamin B9: This vitamin is known to aid in red blood cell production. Sufficient amounts of vitamin B9 help to improve clarity in your mentality.
Vitamin E: A lack of vitamin E may encourage a deficit resulting in neurological problems. There is a questionable link between vitamin E deficiency and Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.
Omega-3: The nerve cells of the brain contain Omega-3. It is thought that Omega-3 may decrease the risk of coronary heart disease and decrease dementia. With decreased levels of Omega-3 there has been some evidence of hyperactivity and reasoning impairment.
Ginkgo biloba: In Germany and Canada, one of the treatments that have gained approval for dementia is ginkgo biloba. Since it is a nonprescription method of treatment it is readily available. It is felt that ginkgo biloba can increase mentality in the elderly in cases of memory deficiency of a mild or moderate form. It is also felt that cognitive functioning improves in this same age group. Ginkgo biloba has been noted to increase the blood flow of the brain. Memory enhancement in younger people has also been noted.
It is a frightening thought that as we age our mental capacity slowly decreases. By eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise we can keep both our minds and bodies at their very best to help ward off these undesirable effects of the aging process.
Other ways to keep mental sharpness intact are to read, do puzzle games, such as word search and crossword puzzles. Using your mind in any way can help to combat against elderly dementia. Remember the saying, “If you don’t use it, you will lose it.” This saying holds true for anything in the body including your mind.