Memory Loss things you can do to improve and maintain your memory.

Firstly there are now many puzzles that will give you brain a challenge the more challenged your brain the better you will find it functioning.

Puzzles like Su Doku, memory and crossword to name just a few will all help that all important organ the brain to get that exercise it so dearly craves. You can do your regular 30 minutes of exercise a day to keep your body healthy but that is just half the problem.

Brian exercises aside there are a few dietary supplements that will improve your memory.

Ginkgo Biloba

Although it is primarily used as a supplement for circulatory problems, Ginkgo extracts of at least 150mg daily were found to increase memory and hearing ability in older age as well as improve concentration.

Some people taking Ginkgo may experience mild intestinal upset and headaches this has only been found in people taking 600mg in a single dose. However Ginkgo is not recommended to be taken by children.

Omega 3

I’m sure you have already heard about omega 3 and how wonderful it is, but do you know why? What is it? Where is it? What does it do?

First what is it?

Omega 3 is made up of the essential fatty acids (EFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Where is it?

EPA and DHA are obtained from oily fish, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a vegetarian friendly version most commonly obtained from flax seed oil. However the body finds it easier to use EPA and DHA forms.

Dietary sources are

•Herring

•Mackerel

•Sardines

•Pilchards

•Salmon

•Trout

•Fresh tuna (not canned as the oil is lost in processing)

Most importantly what does it do?

Because the brain is 60% fat it needs omega 3 to work properly.

It helps deal with thoughts and reactions quickly and efficiently by regulating nerve transition and communication as well as nerve cell regeneration.

Oily fish or and omega 3 supplement may help reduce inflammatory chemicals and lead to better mental health with less confusion and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s.

Omega 3 is also part of the structure of the retina of the eye and by adding omega 3 to your diet it can help protect against late or advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

There are many other health benefits to omega 3 if you wish to find out more you can ask your GP or you nearest healthcare professional. Or if you are local to Oxford come in and see me at Boots in Cornmarket Street or any of my counterparts across the country.

Keep those brains healthy and take Seven Seas Pro brain Omega 3 and Ginkgo all in one tablet.

* If you are taking any other medication consult your doctor before taking a fish oil supplement Cod liver oil or Omega 3 as they may not be suitable.

Other important vitamins to consider are antioxidants, in particular vitamin C and beta-carotene which may help maintain memory in older people.

However more importantly you should be taking a B complex because as we grow older our ability to absorb them becomes less efficient. These are needed to the neurotransmitter most associated with memory. B6 and B9 in particular help the body cope with an amino acid called homocysteine, lower levels of which improve memory and cognitive flexibility.

Hope to hear from some of you,

Chris

Boots Healthcare Consultant

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