Memory loss, also known as amnesia, is a serious form of forgetfulness that often involves an inability to remember current events or experiences from your past. The MedlinePlus medical encyclopedia website states that there are numerous possible causes of memory loss, including dementia, alcohol intoxication, Parkinson's disease and concussion. Before using nutrients to help treat your memory loss, review the immediate and long-term health implications of these natural substances with your family physician.
Memory Loss
In some cases, normal aging can cause difficulty learning new material, although aging usually is not associated with significant memory loss unless an underlying disease is involved, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Memory loss commonly occurs with conditions such as depression in which you experience impaired concentration. Certain signs may indicate an underlying condition that is causing your memory loss, including forgetting how to do things you have done countless times, repeating stories or phrases within the same conversation, and an inability to effectively handle money.
Helpful Nutrients
Numerous nutrients have been used in treating memory loss, although not all nutrients traditionally used in treating this health problem have been extensively studied using clinical research trials. Vitamin B complex, acetylcholine, phosphatidylcholine, lecithin, huperzine A, boron and dimethylaminoethanol may be among the most helpful nutrients in treating or preventing your memory loss, reports nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Coenzyme Q10 and acetyl-L-carnitine may also be beneficial.
Highlighted Nutrient
Huperzine A is a naturally occurring compound and nutrient found in a medicinal herb called firmoss. Huperzine A has historically been used by Chinese medicine practitioners in treating swelling, fever and other ailments, although it is now primarily used in treating memory loss. The University of Michigan Health System states huperzine A extracts are effective in treating cognitive decline in older individuals who have memory disorders. UMHS acknowledges that more research is necessary to confirm the usefulness of this nutrient for this health purpose.
Disclaimer
Memory loss is a serious health problem, especially when it is severe and long-lasting. Memory loss should always be treated by a qualified health care professional. If you are considering using nutrients to help treat your memory loss, first meet with your family physician to discuss proper dosage, potential drug interactions and possible side effects. Some nutrients may not be right for you or your condition. A physician knowledgeable about clinical nutrition can counsel you on the most effective supplements to use for your condition.
References
- MedlinePlus: Memory Loss
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Memory Loss
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Michigan: Huperzia
