Memory problems typically occur with advancing age and may manifest as either short-term or long-term memory loss. It can occur naturally or as a result of conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or chronic malnutrition. Insufficient supply of vitamins and nutrients to your brain can contribute to memory problems. Increasing your intake of certain vitamins may slow the progression of memory loss. Talk to your doctor before increasing your vitamin intake to combat memory problems.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, is one of eight B vitamins that aid in proper physical and mental function. This vitamin helps your body absorb fats and proteins, which are essential for your brain. Vitamin B6 also aids in the production of neurotransmitter chemicals, such as norepinepherine, dopamine and serotonin, which are responsible for memory and learning. You can increase your intake of vitamin B6 by consuming eggs, fish, carrots, beans, brown rice, cabbage and potatoes.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which may help prevent free radical damage to your brain cells. This may help slow the progression of memory problems. It also enhances circulation of blood to your brain by dilating your blood vessels. This may enhance your body's ability to deliver vitamins and nutrients to your brain. You can obtain natural vitamin E from food sources such as kale, spinach, romaine lettuce, whole-wheat breads and pastas, dairy products, alfalfa, and eggs.
Vitamin B12
Increasing your intake of vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, may help slow memory loss and may improve both short-term and long-term memory. This vitamin helps your body produce myelin, a fat that coats nerve endings and prevents damage caused by toxins, viruses and bacteria. It also helps your body absorb and metabolize proteins and carbohydrates, which it uses to produce healthy brain cells. You can obtain vitamin B12 from animal food sources such as milk, cheese, meat, fish and eggs.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "Prescription's Healing with Vitamins"; Alice Feinstein; 1996
