Short-term memory loss prevents people from recalling events and information; it also interferes with learning or retention of new information. Short-term memory loss does not affect intelligence, awareness, personality, judgment or attention. Most people with short-term memory are aware of the condition. Research has demonstrated that lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise affect short-term memory loss. Certain vitamins may prevent and treat this condition.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E has been shown to decrease the incidence of short-term memory loss. Researchers at Harvard Medical School report that people who consumed the most vitamin E in a recent study had 36 percent less mental decline than people who consumed the least. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in the body. Sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, almonds, spinach, carrots and avocados; adults should consume 15 mg per day.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that prevents free radicals from damaging the body's health tissue. Supplementing with vitamin C may keep free radicals from damaging healthy tissue in the brain, thus preventing short-term memory loss. The recommended daily allowance for of vitamin C for adults is between 75 and 125 mg. Excellent sources of vitamin C include oranges, grapefruit, tomatoes, peppers and potatoes.
Vitamin B
Thiamin, or Vitamin B-1, has been shown to have significant effects on the cognitive function of people with memory loss. Signs of thiamin deficiency include depression, slowed cognitive reaction and memory loss. Daily supplementation with 1.2 mg of this vitamin can address the symptoms associated with deficiency. In addition to supplements in the form of a pill, sources of thiamin include lentils, peas, rice, spinach and eggs.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A, specifically beta-carotene, is another anti-oxidant thought to protect against short-term memory loss by preventing damage in the brain associated with free radicals. Beta-carotene protects brain cells and assists with the process of thinking. When treating short-term memory loss, otherwise healthy adults should consume between 700 and 900 mcg of vitamin A each day; sources include eggs, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, cantaloupe, spinach and broccoli.
