Memory is the way humans store and recall objects and events they have experienced in the past. However, many individuals may loose their ability to remember things. This unusual forgetfulness is known as memory loss and may be temporary or permanent. Apart from old age, some cancer treatments, surgeries, injuries, brain disorders and drugs can also lead to memory loss. Certain vitamins and natural supplements may help promote memory function of the brain.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are a group of eight vitamins including vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B 12 and folic acid that play an important role in red blood cell formation and ink proper functioning of various metabolic processes in the body. A September 2010 article published in "Science Daily" states that daily supplementation with B vitamins, especially B6, B 12 and folic acid, can reduce the shrinkage of brain in elderly people with mild memory problems by 0.76 percent. The study, which was conducted by Oxford University, also states that B vitamins may help slow down the progression of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
B vitamins can be obtained from foods such as green leafy vegetables, beans, peas, poultry, meat and dairy products and from synthetic supplements that are available at the local pharmacies. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any vitamin supplements as chronic overdose may lead to serious side effects.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble antioxidant found in citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, green peppers, strawberries and cantaloupes. Vitamin C supplements are also readily available, although an overdose can lead to upset stomach and diarrhea. Vitamin C plays an important role in growth, development, repair and maintenance of various body tissues. Vitamin C also has the ability to neutralize the free radicals that are formed in the brain as a result of various metabolic processes, thereby preventing brain damage and memory loss. Several studies, such as the one published in the April 2003 edition of "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" have also found that individuals with high amounts of vitamin C in their blood perform better on memory tests in old age.
Vitamin D
According to an article published by "Nursing Times" in May 2009, researchers from Manchester's School of Transitional Medicine have found that men with higher levels of blood vitamin D have better memory and information processing skills. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be found in foods such as oysters, fortified cereals, fish, and dairy products, and in synthetic supplements. Human body can also produce significant amounts of vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant vitamin that is important for red blood cell formation. A press release issued by the National Institute of Health in June 2002 says that intake of vitamin E rich foods, such as corn, nuts, olives and wheat germ, may prevent or postpone cognitive decline and memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease. Another study published in April 2009 edition of "Experimental Neurology" has found that vitamin E delays memory loss in animal models with Down's syndrome. The ability of vitamin E to neutralize harmful free radicals has been credited for this.
References
- Science Daily: B Vitamins Slow Brain Atrophy in People With Memory Problems
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition;" Can vitamin supplements prevent cognitive decline and dementia in old age?; Mary N Haan; April 2003
- Nursing Timest: Vitamin D Linked to Good Memory
- "Experimental Neurology;" Cholinergic degeneration and memory loss delayed by vitamin E in a Down syndrome mouse model; Jason Lockrow et al; April 2009
- NIH News Release: Diet Rich in Foods With Vitamin E May Reduce Alzheimer's Disease Risk
