Brain Nutrients

Experts say that memory decline and impaired cognitive abilities may not be related to an aging brain. More significant breakthroughs in research are revealing that what we once considered age-related memory loss, may simply be due to nutritional deficiencies-a lack of brain nutrients. According to Dr. Gary Small, author of The Memory Bible, "Nutrients can have a tremendous impact on brain health".

The practical implications of this are enormous. This means that getting an adequate supply of the right brain nutrition we can support healthy brain functions. Some brain nutrients may even help regulate better moods, thus raising the ability to cope with life more optimistically.

Several brain nutrients have passed preliminary research studies; others have shown good results in larger clinical trials. Nutrients that have been fairly well researched by science and show supportive efficacy for promoting brain health are:

Omega 3 fatty acids. The brain is made up of about 60 percent fat, mainly the omega 3 fatty acid docosahexanoic acid (DHA). DHA is crucial for supporting healthy functions of the brain. Optimal dosage is required for pregnant women and nursing mothers to ensure pre-natal and post-natal brain development of the baby. In adult brains, DHA helps to support brain structure and the cell-to-cell signaling system. It also helps to promote the development of the nervous system as well as cognitive skills and memory functions. A deficiency of DHA has been associated with negative behavior patterns. Research indicates that it may help avert memory decline associated with age, and though further studies are investigating this role, Omega 3 has also been said to act as a proactive nutrition for preventing Alzheimer's disease.

Curcumin. As we age amyloid buildup clogs the brain with protein deposits. This is a degenerative process that affects all of us as we age and has an impact on the brain's memory and learning abilities. Curcumin is an antioxidant, known to exhibit a protective influence on the brain and helps prevent this type of degeneration. Curcumin combined with DHA is believed to have a synergestic neuro-protective effect on the brain.

CoQ10 is a coenzyme required in every cell for the production of energy. It is especially concentrated in the brain, the heart, the liver, and kidneys as these organs require the most energy to support their functions. Research shows that CoQ10 has neuro-protective properties and may play a vital therapeutic role against neuro-degenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Huntington disease. It has been noted that such patients have low CoQ10 content in the brain.

Acetyl-l-Carnitine (ALC). This nutrient exhibits a highly positive influence on brain health and fat metabolism in the nerves. It is also known to play a role in stress tolerance. ALC has the ability to convert fat into fuel for brain cells. Adequate fuel ensures that brain cells function optimally. ALC has neuro-protective properties and also inhibits the formation of amyloid plaque. It is also believed to support healthy brain functions by repairing damaged brain cells.

B Vitamins. B vitamins, particularly Vitamins B6, B12 and folate play an important role in brain functions. B12 has been studied for its role in inhibiting age-related brain atrophy. Vitamins B6 and folate exert a neuro-protective influence.

Antioxidants. The Journal of the American Geriatric Society (2000) noted that excess free radical activity impairs the functions of brain cells and prevents them from communicating with each other leading to mis-mapping of information and memory loss. Eventually it leads to cell death. Vitamins E and C are vital antioxidants required to promote the preservation of brain cells. Antioxidants in blueberries are also known to play a significant role in combating free radical activity in the brain.

Scientists will continue to reveal greater breakthroughs in the field of brain nutrition. Private label manufacturers who keep abreast of current research have the cutting advantage. Manufacturing a highly superior brain health supplement combines stringent manufacturing processes with expert formulations. It gives consumers the opportunity to enhance brain health through quality brain supplements that are based on current research and have a high level of safety and efficacy. Contact a knowledgeable private label manufacturer who has a ready choice of pre-formulated stock to make your job simpler!