MEMORY   Steve Elliott Naturopath  

Memory is the range of processes involving the storage and retrieval of information within the Central Nervous System. Often, poor memory is simply a failure to concentrate on new information for that first few vital seconds, since the memory trace takes a few moments to form.

The amino acid Glutamine may improve memory, as do the minerals Magnesium and Potassium. Research shows that Vitamin B6 improves memory (especially Long-Term Memory) in elderly persons with sub-optimal Vitamin B6 levels (note that very high doses of B6 can cause nerve damage over time). Poor memory can also occur as a result of Vitamin E deficiency. 

Choline (found in Lecithin) may improve memory (due to Choline's role as a precursor for the production of Acetylcholine which is the principle neurotransmitter involved in memory). 

Many herbs have traditionally used for memory:-

* Korean Ginseng (not to be taken by those with high blood pressure) improves long and short term memory (by stimulating the uptake of Choline).

            * Astragalus improves memory (in part by inhibiting the enzyme that degrades Acetylcholine).

* Brahmi (Bacopa) and Gotu Kola reputedly improve memory (according to Indian folklore). 

* Ginkgo biloba might improve memory by increasing blood flow to the brain (Ginkgo should not be used with blood-thinning medications). 

* Siberian Ginseng may improve memory acquisition and memory retention. 

Studies also point to what to avoid:

Excessive consumption of Saturated Fatty Acids (from meats) and high lead levels in the body (from petrol fumes) impair memory. Chronic alcohol consumption causes memory impairment (primarily due to its toxic metabolite, Acetaldehyde) and excessive stress increases the rate of memory loss in elderly persons.

Click below for recommended products:-

Blackmore’s Ginkgo Brahmi

Mega Memory

Nature’s Own Lecithin