Memory loss is a common ailment of the elderly. As the body gets older, one of the things which breaks down are the neurotransmitters which help memories travel through the brain. As the neurotransmitters break down, the distance between gets larger and it becomes harder for the brain to make those connections. In order to combat this, there are several vitamins and minerals which you can take to help strengthen the bonds between neurotransmitters and slow memory loss.
Vitamin B
The vitamin B group is broken down into 6 distinct vitamins. All of these help the body in some way by fortifying it and helping to convert energy. Vitamins B1, B2, B6 and B12 are the best B vitamins to help protect against memory loss. B1 and B2 (also known thiamin and riboflavin) deficiencies can greatly affect your memory. Deficiencies in B1 have also been found to be responsible for mood, feelings on uneasiness, fear, disorderly thinking, and mental depression which can affect memory.
B6 helps convert tryptophan into niacin and serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps sleep and moods. This conversion improves the neurotransmitters in your brain, making memory recollection easier. B12 is a big component in the creation of new cells and repair of damaged ones. It also assists with the maintenance of the nervous system which helps to keep the neural pathways clear.
Iron
Iron is a mineral which is responsible for several things such as helping hemoglobin in red blood cells and the creation of new amino acids in the body. It also is responsible for chemical reactions and the creation of neurotransmitters which aid the brain in memory recollection. Studies have shown that many women of childbearing age or older have an iron deficiency. Iron can be taken in capsule form or gotten from your diet. It is found in red meat, poultry, eggs, vegetables and fortified bread.
Zinc
Zinc does several things in the body, many of which can help with memory loss. Zinc helps to form enzymes and create new cells. It also helps the body release vitamin A, which is an antioxidant, and clears toxins which may hinder the memory. Zinc also helps vitamin B6 with the conversion of tryptophan. It has been suggested that people over 65 get just half of their daily recommended value of zinc per day, which helps to cause memory loss.
