Memory Loss

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Why does my memory seem worse than it used to be? Are there ways I can enhance my brain power?

Walter Lemmo · alive Expert Joined: 01 Sep 2005 Posts: 1

There may be several reasons why you have difficulty retrieving or remembering information. As we say in naturopathic medicine, it is important for you to find and treat the cause or "Tolle causam." For example, Alzheimer's disease and brain circulation problems are more serious causes of memory loss. Medications, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, pain, depression and stress are more common causes of this troublesome problem. Environmental exposures to mercury, perfumes, pesticides and solvents are other factors to consider.

Botanical and nutritional medicines can offer safe and promising help for your condition. Ginkgo biloba, for example, has been in the spotlight for years due to its memory-enhancing effects. Research supports the use of ginkgo for treating Alzheimer's, brain injury, stroke and mood. In one study, single high doses of standardized gingko (300 to 600 milligrams) improved short-term memory in just a few hours! Many people use 60 mg of standardized ginkgo biloba extract three times per day. In private practice, I find combining ginkgo with ginseng offers additional benefits for memory enhancement.

Proper diet and adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals and good quality fats support mental function and memory. The B vitamins, for instance, are especially important. In a recent Australian study, healthy women with diets higher in vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid did better in speed of processing, recall and recognition, and verbal ability. These women also had improved memory performance scores.

A brain food supported by noteworthy research is phosphatidylserine (PS). Available in health food stores in supplement form, this natural, fat-based compound is found in largest amounts in the brain and is essential for general brain activity. Several research papers support using PS for memory, learning, concentration, word skills and mood, and recommended at least 100 mg three times per day.

Don't forget to incorporate physical-based strategies for boosting your brain and memory. Exercise activity that involves movement and relaxation enhances memory and mental clarity.

Lorna Vanderhaeghe · alive Expert Joined: 31 Aug 2005 Posts: 4

When memories start to fade, we have to act fast to support healthy brain function. Most people know about the benefits of the memory-enhancing herb, Ginkgo biloba.

Ashwagandha (Withania somniferum), an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for thousands of years for longevity, relieving stress, supporting the adrenal glands, and building sexual energy has also been shown to protect the brain from age-related and stroke-related memory decline. Withanolides, the main active constituent, and several potent antioxidants, including glutathione peroxidase, are thought to help protect the brain from damage. In one study ashwagandha was used to repair damage to the brain caused by stroke.

Researchers have found that an increase in acetylcholine-receptor activity occurred after using this safe herb. Acetylcholine is the most essential neurotransmitter in the brain, responsible for dozens of actions involved in memory and cognition. Enhancing the receptivity of acetylcholine and maintaining those levels is key to memory and learning.

Ashwagandha also reduces anxiety. New research into Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and memory decline has found that when we are anxious or under stress, inflammation promoted by the immune system occurs in the brain. This inflammation causes damage to neurons and axons necessary for memory. Ashwagandha safely calms the mind, supports normal function of the immune system, and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.

By combining ashwagandha with a diet rich in essential fatty acids from fish oils, along with plenty of organic fruits and vegetables, good sources of protein, and multivitamins with minerals, we can help slow or even reverse those forgetting moments.

Grandma · Joined: 12 Apr 2006 Posts: 8

If you saw the Vancouver Sun yesterday, it had a great article on Omega-3 fatty acids. Given the research into Omega-3 and brain function, I think it very wise to ensure a good high dose of omega-3 supplementation. Diet just doesn't cut it these days. I've noticed a great improvment since I started taking it.
Grandma--whose memory is only getting better!

Guest · Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 1:21 pm Post subject: memory loss

I've heard of something called Mental Acuity. I don't know people who used it, but it's all natural and it's a mix of herbs and vitamins that are supposed to help. Also, it's not available at stores. I heard about it from my friend who sells it.

Guest · Posted: Fri Aug 11, 2006 2:37 pm Post subject: memory loss

If you are also experiencing fatigue, difficulty making decision, "cloudy" thoughts, etc. you may want to check out your adrenal system. Memory impairment is a symptom of adrenal fatigue. There are products out there that can help. I take one by Lorne Vanderhaeghe that has really helped me called "Adrenasene'. I have more energy, better memory, and clearer thoughts. Also. recommend taking Omega-3s.

Allergic · Guest

I'd like to be able to take Omerga-3's to help with my swiss-cheese memory but I am allergic to seafood and shellfish. Is there an alternative, vegetarian way to get Omega-3's and fight brain decay?