You wear helmets to protect your brain from the outside when riding a motorcycles or playing football, but you also need to protect your brain from the inside. As you age, you are more prone to memory problems and trouble with mental clarity. These cognitive dysfunctions are sometimes classified as brain fog. Brain supplements may help your mind stay sharp; however, consult a doctor if you are concerned about your mental clarity.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important to a number of functions in the brain, including neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve growth. Your skin produces vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. It can also be found in milk products, oily fish and in vitamin supplements. Studies show that people aged 65 and older with lower levels of vitamin D are twice as likely to have cognitive impairment, according to the National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, which adds that adults from 19 to 50 should have 5 mcg, or 200 IU, of vitamin D each day.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is popular in traditional medicine for enhancing memory, although studies conflict on its effectiveness. This supplement may help in treating Alzheimer's disease and improving blood circulation. When taken for mental clarity, ginkgo biloba is generally recommended at 120 mg per day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Omega-3
Omega-3s are believed to improve neuron communication, helping brain function and mood, and are important to the brain development of children. Omega-3s are present in fish, flaxseed oil and walnuts, as well as in vitamin supplements. The American Heart Association recommends that healthy adults eat fish twice a week. If taken as a supplement, use as advised on the container.
Blueberry Extract
Blueberries are high in antioxidants that support the cells of the brain and keep them from degenerating. As a supplement, blueberry extract can battle free radicals that can damage mental clarity and memory. Blueberry extract is generally purchased in capsules, and should be taken as advised on the container.
Vitamin B12
Memory loss and confusion may be symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 contributes to healthy nerve and red blood cells. Vitamin B12 supplementation can be especially important to older people who have a harder time absorbing the vitamin due to lower production of stomach acid.The vitamin is present in meat, milk and multivitamin supplements. Adults 19 to 50 should get 2.4 mcg per day, according to the UC Berkeley Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements.
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