The modern world is making increased demands on us due to the sheer amount of information that we have to process in order to enjoy an edge in both our professional and personal lives. The need for mental agility, enhanced memory and analytical ability is so important that many individuals turn to drugs in order to maintain and enhance brain function. However, at the same time, there is an increased awareness that man-made drugs can present dangers in terms of both short and long-term health.
For this reason, a growing number of consumers are seeking out natural alternatives that will help them enhance their mental abilities – and in some cases negate the effects that aging has on our mental faculties. For those in search of these natural alternatives, there are several that have been the subject of increasing amounts of medical research – and where anecdotal evidence suggests that they can be effective at maintaining that mental edge. Here are some of those.
1. Fish Oils.
Supplements that contain fish oils can extremely beneficial to maintaining and enhancing brain function due to the large amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids that they contain. Two of the most important of these are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). DHA assists in maintaining efficient cellular functioning of the brain. It makes up 90% of the Omega-3 fat that is present in brain cells. Research has shown that it can improve the brain’s processing functions, memory and shorten reaction times. There is evidence that EPA can protect the brain from damage, especially as a result of the aging process due to its anti-inflammatory properties. IT has also been shown to improve mood – which can directly influence the clarity of thought.
2. Resveratrol.
Red and purple fruits such as grapes and raspberries are packed with Resveratrol. The good news is that both chocolate and red wine contain large amounts of this antioxidant. It has been suggested that Resveratrol helps to maintain the optimum functioning of the Hippocampus – which is the seat of memory. Resveratrol is therefore extremely useful in slowing or even reversing the effects of aging on memory. This fact has been backed up in both animal and limited human studies. However, medical researchers have noted that further studies may be needed to ascertain correct dosages and explore the mechanisms for the effects of Reservatrol on the brain.
3. Caffeine.
Although too much caffeine can be detrimental (leading to anxiety, nausea and sleep disorders) a healthy amount increases alertness and staves off the effects of fatigue by stimulating the central nervous system. Some research has also indicated that small doses of caffeine can also improve memory function and reaction times. The same research has indicated that the optimum dose of caffeine is around 200–400 mg, a cup of coffee usually contains between 50-400 mg of caffeine – and that is generally considered to be the most beneficial.
4. Ginkgo Biloba.
This is a supplement that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The active ingredient is derived from the Ginkgo biloba tree and is thought to boost brain function by increasing the flow of blood (and thus oxygen) to the brain. This leads to an increased ability to process information and an improvement in memory function, decreasing the effects of aging on memory. research is ongoing, however, there is currently some evidence to suggest that it is highly effective.
5. Creatine.
Although Creatine has been used in bodybuilding for some time it has also been found to have benefits when it comes to proper brain function. It is usually taken as a supplement – however, it can be found in small amounts in eggs, meat and fish. It is extremely useful to those whose diets do not include animal products. In fact, one study that focused on vegans showed that taking a Creatine supplement could boost memory and brain function (as indicated by a series of tests) by between 25–50%.
6. Acetyl-L-Carnitine / Phosphatidylserine.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine is an amino acid that is produced naturally by the human body – however taking a supplement containing this essential amino acid can boost the metabolism – and improve memory (especially when memory loss is related to aging) and alertness. Phosphatidylserine is fat that is produced naturally in the body. Supplements containing Phosphatidylserine have been found to boost memory function and decrease age-related declines in the functioning of the brain. Check Top Rated Memory Supplements on LumUltra. Ultimate Memory Boosting, Cognitive Enhancing Supplement. See Which Supplement Is The Best For Improving Memory, Alertness, & Focus. Top Brands. Top Products. Expert Reviews.
For those who wish to improve brain function, memory, increase alertness and reaction times or stave off the effects of aging on the optimum functioning of the brain these types of naturally occurring compounds and chemicals that are available in supplement form can prove immensely useful. They are also ideal for those who want to avoid products that are based on chemicals and supplement ingredients that are produced in a laboratory. They can be a useful natural route to brain health.