Memory loss is such a concern for a lot of us as we get older. It’s easy to overlook our brain as an organ in the body, which we can absolutely support and nurture with the daily food and lifestyle choices we make. Nutrition is such an essential component to a healthy brain, for both good short- and long-term memory; and healthy brain function overall. Today, I want to highlight the most clinically researched core elements that support better memory and brain function. These include;

Omega 3’s

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids has an extensive array of benefits for your health, in particular for brain health and improving cognitive function. Omega 3 fatty acids such as EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids are known as essential nutrients in the body. They are essential as the human body cannot produce them internally, so we need to source them from foods and outside sources such as supplements. Fish is a fantastic food source of the both EPA and DHA fatty acids. Unfortunately, the majority of Australians don’t consume the minimum amounts of either of these fatty acids to maintain optimal health (between 250-500mg) View Heart Foundation Fish Recommendations. Without good amounts of these fatty acids, our very delicate cells within the brain and nervous system cannot function optimally, which can result in poor memory, foggy thinking and poor concentration. In addition, toxins and heavy metals such as mercury are commonly found in fish products, so a purified and premium quality fish oil supplement is one of the safest sources to get your fix of these essential fatty acids. It’s difficult to obtain a therapeutic amount of these fatty acids from diet alone. I recommend people with particular health challenges (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, pain, memory impairment etc) to include 2-3grams of fish oil a day for symptom relief. Once symptoms ease, I generally suggest a maintenance dose of 1g per day. Roughly 20% of the fatty acids in your brain’s cerebral cortex are made up of the omega-3 fatty acid, DHA. This is the part of your brain responsible for memory, language, creativity and emotion. Do you really need to know more? Obviously, it’s really important to make sure you are getting your daily serving of this vital nutrient. Top Product Picks:

• Herbs of Gold Ultra Omega 3-6-9
• Carusos Natural Health King Krill 2000mg

Low Sugar

A low sugar diet, or a low glycaemic load diet is recommended to prevent the development of insulin resistance. Insulin resistance in conjunction with the brain can have a number of detrimental effects on our body, including limiting memory and brain function. Balanced blood sugar levels are important for our health and wellbeing. GR8 Health’s blood sugar control supplements contain nutrients to support this:

• Herbs of Gold Chromium Max provides a high potency formulation, which assists the body in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels, by helping in the transport of glucose from the blood into the cells. People with a diet high in sugar, and particularly refined carbohydrates will have more of a need for chromium and will benefit from this nutrient greatly.
• Herbs of Gold Glucoplex
• Schuessler Tissue Salts Homeopathic Complex Cravings Relief Spray
• Thompsons Glucose Manager
• We Test At Home Urine Test

Healthy Fats

It may surprise you to know that the brain is comprised of 60% fat. Because of this it’s incredibly vulnerable for oxidation. Therefore, it is vital that the right types of fats are consumed, as bad fats (think trans fats, and too many omega 6 fats) can contribute to chronic, low grade inflammation in the body. Healthy dietary fats, including omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) are not just important, but are essential for healthy brain function.

Coconut Oil – Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

MCTs, or medium chain triglycerides are fats. However, these fats are unique in that they are easily absorbed and digested in the body and sent to your liver. Here, they have what’s known as a thermogenic effect on the body. This means they have the ability to boost metabolism and can be beneficial for those who may need support with weight management. They are burned easier by the body so can be used quickly for energy, versus being stored in the body as fat. MCTs are also converted in the liver to a substance known as ketones. Ketones can be used by the brain as an alternative energy source and can be extremely valuable to people with memory impairment and have been used therapeutically to enhance cognitive function. Using ketones as a fuel source can lead to better brain function and improved mental clarity. MCTs also support a healthy gut environment as they have the ability to fight harmful bacteria, parasites and yeasts in the gut. Shop Here

Antioxidants

Vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatory phyto-nutrients and much needed antioxidants for the body. We may think we are getting adequate amounts of our vegetables but most of us aren’t hitting the mark as regularly as we would like. This is when a super food powder, such as Vital Greens can really come to the party and take our health to the next level.

Beetroot

Beetroot supports healthy blood flow to the brain. It’s high in nitric oxide, which helps to open up our blood capillaries, maximising blood flow. This provides, nutrient rich blood to support our overall brain function. Shop Here

Gingko

Ginkgo biloba is well supported in research and literature to support its use as a herb for better memory and brain function. Ginkgo has a wide range of therapeutic properties that include; treatment for blood disorders, memory problems, enhancement of cardiovascular function and to improve eye health. Researchers believe ginkgo improves memory and brain function by promoting healthy blood circulation in the brain and protecting it from neuronal free radical damage. There is evidence indicating that ginkgo can help people with dementia, although more studies are required to confirm this. In studies, adults have used between 120 and 240 milligrams a day in divided doses. It appears to take 4 to 6 weeks before improvements are noticed. Shop Here