Our memory is what makes us who we are. It determines whether we succeed in life or not. But as one ages, the memory starts to decline. In some cases, the decline is so serious that the affected person may find it difficult to perform some of the things they have lived doing. Typically, the human brain processes information and relies on calories for the energy it needs to do its job. But as it gets old, the capacity declines, so it becomes difficult to perform some of the tasks.
Fortunately, brain boosters can help improve long-term memory. Herbs, smart drugs, or nutrients enhance concentration, focus, alertness, memory thinking, and mood. They also sharpen the user’s wits and stimulate mental activity.
But there are many types of brain boosters. They range from plant extracts to animal foods. Some of the best brain boosters are extracted from marine animals. Continue reading to understand some of the brain enhancers and how they can help improve long-term memory.
1. Vitamins And Fatty Acids
Vitamin B12 is on the top of the list of supplements that help to reduce memory loss. But as people age, some of them develop stomach issues, and they find it difficult to consume foods with vitamins B12. It reduces the level of B12 in the body and results in memory loss. Also, strict vegetarians and the elderly with decreased stomach acid are likely to experience the problem. So eating foods rich in vitamin B12, like poultry, fish, and fortified breakfast will supply the body with B12 vitamin, which helps to boost the brain capacity. Therefore, the elderly who cannot get vitamin B12 from natural foods can be put on B12 supplements to maintain the required level and help the brain function normally.
2. Omega 3
Omega 3 is known for building the membranes around the brain cells. It, therefore, helps to improve the cells’ neurons, which further enhances the amount of blood flow through the brain. Omega-three supplements boost cognitive and thinking abilities. Therefore, eating omega 3 rich foods such as oily fish is critical in boosting memory function. Foods such as mackerel, salmon, herring, tuna, sardines, flaxseed, nuts, and soybeans are rich in omega-3s and consuming them regularly can boost brain functioning.
Besides, omega 3 fatty foods contain DHA, an important brain booster that helps the brain’s cells to communicate. Regular consumption of a diet rich in DHA improves learning and greatly boosts long-term memory.
3. Ginkgo Biloba
Some boosters, such as ginkgo Biloba are useful in treating Alzheimer’s. The booster thins the blood to help improve oxygen supply to the brain. A steady supply of oxygen to the brain is critical in helping to improve its performance. Studies show that putting the elderly on Ginko improves their memory and mental abilities.
4. Water
Water is one of the most important parts of the body. Over 60 % of the human body is water. The heart and the brain are composed of 73% water, while the lungs are composed of 83 % water.
Note that ¾ of the brain is water, so if you are dehydrated, the brain will not function normally. Therefore, drinking enough water is likely to help the brain stay hydrated. Also, the brain detects when the level of water in the body is low. So you will feel thirsty and the urge to drink water.
5. Tumeric
Turmeric supplements are considered the best health and wellness supplements that enhance the body’s antioxidant capacity and brain functioning. It contains curcumin which crosses the blood-brain barrier to help remove plaques that cause cognitive decline. Also, it helps to boost the brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor, a growth hormone that helps the brain function. Also, it improves memory and lowers the risk of brain diseases. Curcumin will also help prevent the development of brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and boost the brain’s long-term memory.
6. Coffee
It is another important booster that enhances focus and encourages the user to remain alert. It contains caffeine that blocks adenosine, a substance found in the brain and which makes one feel sleepy. Blocking adenosine boosts alertness and enhances the capacity of the brain to process information. Also, caffeine increases brain entropy which further increases brain activity. High entropy enables the brain to process information quickly. Coffee is rich in antioxidants that support brain health and reduce chances of occurrence of stroke, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
7. Maca
It is one of the plants that have been cultivated in Peru for more than 2000 years. Maca is a medicinal plant, but which is sometimes used as a foodstuff. The plant has many health benefits, including boosting memory and improving the user’s mood. When consumed, it enhances endurance, improves sexual health and regulates blood pressure. Studies have found that maca extracts have plenty of health benefits including helping children enhance their grades.
The black variety, in particular, boosts and improves the brain’s long-term memory. Although studies on its potency are ongoing, it is believed that when you add maca to oatmeal, energy bars and smoothies, you will enjoy its memory-boosting capabilities.