Forget what you were saying?
As you age, your brain ages as well. You begin to suffer cognitive issues, forgetting events in both the short-term and long-term. Maybe you’ve considered taking memory supplements. These supplements can help with word recall, spatial memory, and long-term memory.
Many people argue that memory supplements are ineffective. But you can maximize the potential for these supplements by practicing self-care and staying active. Keep reading to learn how to take full advantage of memory supplements.
Why are memory supplements helpful?
The best memory supplements can help slow down mental decline, prevent Alzheimer’s Disease, and even decrease the likelihood of dementia. Some people believe that memory supplements can also improve brain function.
People taking memory supplements look for these ingredients and nutrients:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (fish oils)
• Ginkgo Biloba
• Turmeric
• vitamin E
• Ginseng
These supplements can have harmful interactions with other medications. Others can worsen blood thinning, cause stomachaches, and be too expensive. Therefore, you should talk to a doctor before taking memory supplements for the first time.
How to get the most from memory supplements
When cognitive function improves after taking memory supplements, self-care and staying active are also part of the equation. In other words, taking supplements is more effective and safer than taking supplements alone.
Three changes require your focus.
Eat a balanced diet
Foods and beverages such as blueberries, dark chocolate, coffee, and green tea have antioxidant benefits. They also serve as memory boosters. Eating a balanced diet of vegetables, foods, and whole grains is the most effective way to support brain function.
Other ways to eat healthy include:
- Eat no less than one meal a day
• Consume sugar in moderation
• Increase appetite with minimal recreational drug use
It’s easy to get lazy and not eat regularly. However, the effects of not eating 3-5 meals a day, over-consumption of sugar—which has “drug-like” interactions with the brain—and using drugs to increase appetite aren’t worth the risks. So be sure to get the most from memory supplements by eating well.
Keep using your brain
Further your education. Try new things. Stay sharp. Research shows that pushing yourself to solve puzzles, read books, and think critically can slow down brain deterioration, reduce the chances for dementia, and improve your mental health all at once.So play board games like chess to force yourself to think and stay patient. Read critically and ask questions about the TV shows you watch. Critical thinking can be done at any age and still have a positive effect on memory.
Write in a journal
If you want to keep track of your life, you can retain information by keeping a journal. Journaling lets you tell stories and connect with your inner self.
Consider this study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology. College students recorded stressful feelings. Meanwhile, researchers analyzed their working memory. If students sought to make a straightforward narrative out of broken memories, they’d use keywords. The study found that the participants’ working memory improved, as did their academic performance.
Additionally, journaling eases the pain and stress associated with prior traumatic experiences. Journaling is suitable for both mental health and memory.
Memory supplements alone might not be enough to fight memory loss. Stay healthy and active, and know that despite the challenges of getting older, talking with others and challenging your mind are essential for improved memory. So keep these three tips in mind the next time you talk to your doctor about memory supplements.