It is always the little things that matter the most. But when it comes to memory loss, does a case of misplacing keys, forgetting why you came into the room, or simply missing a turn warrant a prescription for brain boosters? Maybe some over-the-counter supplements would be a better option.
Do memory supplements work? Here’s a detailed rundown of everything you need to know.
Do Memory Supplements Work?
Yes, on a broader aspect, memory supplements can work to improve brain power. But, there are a few factors that come into play:
- If there’s already an element deficiency in your body, the vitamins will try to compensate for it which will ‘dial up’ your cognitive function. Now that you’re more alert, it’ll seem easier to focus and retain notes in memory.
- The kind of lifestyle you lead as well as the diet you consume can also directly impact how a memory supplement works to improve your brain health.
There isn’t a concrete answer to whether popping a memory enhancer pill actually works because the research done on it is quite modest.
Memory Supplements vs. Dietary Vitamins: What’s More Effective?
When it comes to brain health, of course, the vitamins you get from your diet reign superior as compared to mass-produced memory supplements. But why?
See, our brain is a very complex organ. It chows down on over 25000 bioactive elements from the food we take in. Combined, they handle the metabolic processes that enhance cognitive function, improve memory and keep our energy up. There’s no way one simple capsule of vitamins, even if specially made for memory, can perform for each one.
A brain health supplement may claim to ‘boost memory’ but the ingredients present in it might not. This is because that specific ingredient was evidenced in research for food and diet instead of supplements.
What Supplements Work Best as Memory Enhancers?
Even though there’s limited research on memory supplements, the global sales for brain health capsules are expected to increase up to $5bn a year by 2023! To help you choose the right one, we’ve listed down three of the best memory enhancers:
Fish Oils
Also marketed as Omega-3 supplements or Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oils are responsible for a variety of body functions especially those related to the heart. They have recently been reviewed to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s if one has the APOE4 gene mutation. The catch is: the patient will have to take the supplement very early on.
Vitamin B
Because they primarily work on brain functions, B vitamins like folic acid, ginkgo Biloba extract, B6 and B12 are one of the most popular candidates to improve cognitive abilities. Folate even goes a step further and prevents neural defects in babies before birth.
Vitamin E
The best ‘natural’ supplement to enhance memory, vitamin E has been known to slow the rate of cognitive impairment in dementia patients. If your diet is rich in vitamin E, you’re less likely to be at risk of dementia — knowing that, it’s better to opt for food substances with vitamin E instead of consuming capsules.
Risk Factors Involved With Taking Memory Supplements
Besides the lack of scientific evidence on the benefits of memory supplements, there are a few other risk factors you should know before dedicating a part of your life to the capsule:
Loose FDA Regulation
Since vitamin supplements do not require clinical studies to prove their functionality, most (if not all) aren’t regulated by the FDA. Companies may also choose to keep part of the ingredients secret or even illegally claim to ‘cure’ memory loss. This creates a harmful headline for over-the-counter brain supplements.
Pairing With Medicines
Another crucial point to note, some memory supplements do not pair well with prescribed medications. For instance, ginkgo Biloba extract is widely available as a brain-health supplement but it should never be taken with antidepressants, blood thinners, or even blood pressure drugs. Always consult with your doctor beforehand to rule out dangerous elements.
What is the Best Natural Supplement to Boost Memory?
Though commercially-available memory boosters are quite convenient, there are a variety of natural supplements you can try to incorporate into your daily routine to enjoy a sharper mind. The best part? Most of them will take less than 30 minutes out of your day!
Jog Your Brain
The best way to enhance cognitive skills like reasoning, comprehension, and memory is to exercise your brain. Try your hand at trivia, learn a new language or play chess — it’s fun and helpful.
Go For a Walk
Did you know? A sedentary lifestyle is most likely to promote an early onset of Alzheimer’s. To prevent it, all you have to do is get your steps in for the day and get your heart pumping with cardio for energy production and blood flow.
Prioritize Your Health
Lastly, look after yourself. At the end of the day, that’s all you’ve got. Sleep well and maintain your blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does alcohol negatively affect memory?
Yes, increased use of alcohol has been known to negatively impact memory and promote cognitive decline. Over time, it costs a person their ability to make new long-term memories but doesn’t necessarily disrupt short-term memory or their recall of past memories.
Why are Alzheimer’s rates lower in India?
Alzheimer’s rates are relatively lower in India because they consume a lot of Turmeric in their diet. The bright yellow herb contains Curcumin which is known to effectively delay the onset of Alzheimer’s. It is pertinent to mention, however, that Turmeric isn’t used to treat or effectively prevent memory loss.
Brief Summary
So, do memory supplements work? Yes, they might for some people but they aren’t a magic pill or even an effective alternative for exercise. Before placing an order, make sure to do your research and consult your healthcare provider for a thorough analysis of what your body needs.
