Nutritional Supplements That Will Boost Your Brain Power

by Aviva Natural Health Solutions January 03, 2012

Anne Radcliff

Brain fog and memory loss are frustrating experiences that can cause serious problems in your life. The inability to think clearly, remember names, or perform tasks that were once quite simple can turn your life upside down.

The natural aging process, health issues, and prescription drugs are often at the root of many cognitive problems. There are several nutritional supplements that can help improve your brain's health and its ability to function efficiently. These supplements can improve the delivery of oxygen to the brain, fight the signs of aging, and destroy dangerous free radicals.

B Complex

The B complex vitamins are essential for a healthy central nervous system. Deficiencies in several of the B vitamins can lead to forgetfulness, depression, and stress. A lack of choline, a nutrient that is categorized as a B vitamin, will often cause memory problems. Take a full B complex rather than individual B vitamins, especially if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

CoQ10

CoQ10 is produced in the energy centers, or mitochondria, of the cells. It is required for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which boosts the brain's energy and sharpness. Production of this compound decreases around the age of 40 years old, and is also slowed down by the use of statin drugs. Low levels of CoQ10 can bring about a variety of brain issues, including dementia and attention problems. Supplementing with CoQ10 helps to increase mental energy, which can give you more focus and cognitive agility.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a powerful antioxidant that protects and prevents the deterioration of brain cells. It helps increase acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that improves memory and learning abilities. It may even be useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, age-related dementia, and depression. It is important to choose the acetyl form of L-carnitine, which has the ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier and clean up free radicals that can damage healthy brain cells.

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine increases the amount of oxygen available to the brain by widening the arteries and increasing blood flow. Its circulation-boosting abilities make it an effective supplement for those who have a sluggish metabolism due to hypothyroidism. It spurs the production of ATP, which also increases brain power and improves mood and memory. Vinpocetine helps prevent age-related memory loss by protecting against cell damage and calcium imbalance.

A lack of mental clarity or focus is often the result of an imbalance or deficiency. Whether you are struggling with age-related memory loss, brain fog, or excessive stress, dietary supplements that support brain health can bring back that mental sharpness you've been missing.