Memory is a crucial function that helps us remember facts, ideas and impression. The loss of memory can be debilitating and frustrating. There are many factors that determine how effective your memory is such as age, diet, medications and general health. To keep your memory in top condition, there are certain vitamins you should consume in the form of supplements or food sources.
Folate
Folate aids in memory improvement and prevents loss. Studies show folate, ingested by those over age 60, can help reduce memory loss. Researchers believe that folate as well as other B Vitamins, are key factors in the chemical synthesis that improves brain power. Rich sources of folate include legumes, liver, avocados, cantaloupes, eggs and asparagus.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E improves memory in elderly people by decreasing memory loss as well as other forms of cognitive deterioration. A three-year study was performed on senior citizens in a nursing and those who added Vitamin E in their diet recalled details more efficiently than their counterparts who did consume Vitamin E. Rich sources of vitamin E are hazelnuts, almonds, mango, kiwi, spinach and broccoli.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 prevents memory loss and improves brain functioning. It helps stimulate neurotransmitters that allow cell communication. On the flip side, a Vitamin B6 deficiency may diminish your memory, hindering brain cell ability to retrieve and retain information. Excellent food sources for Vitamin B6 are fortified cereals, poultry, fish, beans and peanut butter.
Vitamin C
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Vitamin C is a protective antioxidant which fights free radicals causing cell damage. Free radicals may damage healthy brain tissue and decrease memory function. Vitamin C is found mostly in fresh fruits and veggies including cherries, peaches, apples, watermelon, carrots, beets and avocados.
