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Forgetful? Here are three supplements that may be helpful in sharpening your memory so you can multi-task with the best of them.
Does it seem you are more forgetful lately? It may be that you have a lot on your mind. Or perhaps you are trying to focus on too many things at one time. It may be the pandemic: Months spent in lockdown, with little social interaction and few new experiences, can affect your brain. Or, maybe you are experiencing age-related memory loss.
Whatever the cause, there are things you can do to improve memory and focus — including doing brain exercises to strengthen your memory and eating a healthy diet rich in good fats and green leafy veggies.
But is there anything else to try?
Here are three memory supplements that may help improve your memory and focus — and get back your multi-tasking mojo.
1. Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a substance found in the brain that aids neurotransmission. PS is required for healthy nerve cell membranes. Studies have shown that the PS supplement may help reduce age-related brain decline. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition 78 older adults with mild cognitive impairment took PS for six months. At the end of the study, participants experienced significant memory improvement. Additional studies suggest Phosphatidylserine may be helpful in reducing memory loss and improving focus in younger people as well.
2. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is well-known as a memory supplement — and the subject of several health claims and studies. Mainly, studies have shown the supplement may help improve blood flow to the brain, which in turn can improve brain function. Ginkgo Biloba is also a powerful antioxidant.
Several studies show that Ginkgo can be helpful with memory problems in people who are experiencing mild dementia. There is some evidence that Ginkgo Biloba might also slightly boost cognition and memory speed in those with healthy memory.
3. Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L- Carnitine, another supplement for memory, is an amino acid that research suggests may be helpful in improving cognition and memory. A trial published in the “Journal of Dementia and Neurocognitive Disorders” sited older adults with a confirmed diagnosis of dementia or memory loss were given Acetyl-L Carnitine for 28 days. At the end of the trial, all participants in the control group had improved cognition and memory. A similar study of younger adults, ages 22-66, showed that those who took the ACL for 28 days reported better mood, attention, continuity of attention, improved speed, and quality of memory.
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