Vitamins for Brain Health

Those who read the story of Daniel Tammet, a few years ago, were totally stunned. We watched in jaw-dropping astonishment as Daniel Tammet calculated to the hundredth decimal, all in his mind and within a few seconds. Incredibly, he can also learn a new language in just one week. Scientists believe that once they understand how to tap the right resources in our brain, not just Daniel Tammet, but all of us would be able to perform these amazing brain theatricals. nnBut for mortals like us who struggle with “senior moments” even at the age of 35, scientists have hope for us yet. Yes! It’s all to do with brain foods—the right nutrients that can power the brain to perform optimally supporting cognitive, motor, memory and mood functions—even if we never reach genius proportions, a well-versed brain is quite a feat in itself.nnEat More Brain VitaminsnMedical evidence strongly suggests that those who pay attention to a healthy diet and regular exercise give their bodies an advantage and may enjoy physical and mental wellbeing well into their senior years. While the brain weighs just about 2 pounds, it uses up 20 percent of our body’s oxygen supply so keeping the brain oxygenated through proper circulation is vital to brain health. nnIn addition to good nutrition and exercise, our brains need to be sharpened by mental workouts, just like our muscles need toning and firming for optimal performance. Conversely, poor nutrition (vitamin deficiencies), certain medications, decreased physical activity, even trauma and stress may negatively affect the performance of the brain.nnWhat kind of brain nutrients should you eat? Here’s a list of essential vitamins, botanicals, antioxidants and nutrients that you should add to your diet for sustaining brain power:nnVitamin B12nDid you know that your brain shrinks as you age? Vitamin B12 is believed to help protect the brain against this age-related atrophy. It also plays an important role in maintaining healthy functions of the brain and nervous system. Vitamin B12 is needed for the formation of new blood cells.nnVitamin B12 deficiencies have been linked to brain atrophy and impaired cognitive brain functions. B12 is found in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk and milk products in good concentrations. Fortified breakfast cereals can also be a good source for B12. Those on purely vegetarian and vegan diets and the elderly are more susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiencies. nnCiticolinenCiticoline is a form of Choline, a recent addition to the Vitamin B family. Cognizin® is a proprietary compound of Citicoline. It helps neurons to produce energy in the brain. Choline supports cognitive brain functions and the retention of memory. It promotes cell to cell communication and healthy brain aging. Almonds, asparagus, eggs, navy beans are natural sources of choline. nnHuperzine AnHuperzine A is an antioxidant that works as a neuroprotective agent. It is believed to help sharpen memory skills and support cognitive functions of the brain. Huperzine is derived from medicinal plants and has been traditionally used in China for centuries. nnVinpocetinenVinpocetine is a nutrient derived from the periwinkle plant. It supports the retention of memory, cognitive performance, mental sharpness and alertness. Is promotes cerebral circulation thereby keeping the brain oxygenated. It is used extensively in Europe.nnPhosphatidylserine nPhosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is present in the brain. It helps to support memory, concentration, learning, and protect against age-related moodiness. nnBlueberry ExtractnBlueberries contain powerful antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help to protect cells from degeneration. Antioxidants support brain health at the basic cellular level. Blueberries support motor skills, coordination and balance. nnIt is noted that people who take a proactive approach to health are agile and are able to retain mental sharpness even as they advance in age. A healthy diet, regular physical exercise and mental workouts along with brain vitamins like Memory Matrix containing memory-specific nutrients can help support mental acuity, coordination and general cerebral health.n