Medical doctors have long supported the efficacy of some nutrients and nutritional supplements to promote brain health and function, according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, especially in the treatment of conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease processes. Talk to your doctor about specific supplements that may help maintain and improve attention span, memory, reasoning and function.
Step 1
Ingest adequate amounts of folic acid to help enhance brain development both in developing fetuses and in the aging. The Medical Research Council Vitamin Study Research Group determined that when taking 4000 micrograms, or 4 milligrams, a day, fewer neural tube defects were notes in developing fetuses.
Step 2
Increase serotonin levels in the brain by consuming supplements offering amino acids such as tyrosine and tryptophan, which help to raise the level of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is the brain's mood lifter, a chemical messenger that acts as a neural transmitter. Depression is a major factor in the withdrawal and isolation of seniors. Such withdrawal leads to increased mental and physical inactivity of the brain and body. Adequate dosage of such amino acids are determined by your body weight and medical status, so before self-administering, talk to your doctor regarding dosage.
Step 3
Address physical movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia with supplements containing choline, necessary for the development of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Choline is believed to function as a memory enhancer and has been studied with Alzheimer's patients. Never self-diagnose medical conditions, and talk to your doctor about taking amino acids to help with movement disorders.
Step 4
Take ginkgo biloba on a daily basis, as it is believed to help improve memory in some, according to the Mayo Clinic, especially those diagnosed with multi-infarct forms of dementia. Adults are recommended to take between 80 to 240 mg of the leaf extract daily, divided into between two to three doses, or 3 to 6 milliliters of the extract on a daily basis, again divided into three doses.
Step 5
Increase cognitive levels with phosphatidylserine supplements, which may help improve memory and cognition levels in those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, suggests Mayo Clinic neuropsychologist Glenn Smith, Ph.D.. However, use caution when taking any nutritional supplement for memory enhancement, as some are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Step 6
Improve your brain power with omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to increase brain performance and memory, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Discuss adequate dosage requirements of omega-3 fatty acids and necessary balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids with your doctor for optimal benefits.
