We all forget things sometimes. As you get older, you may start to forget things more and more. If you want to improve your memory, this is a simple option you can try – vitamins. Read on to find five super vitamins that may help you with your forgetfulness.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is known to have antioxidant properties, which may assist in protecting nerve cells and preventing damage to the brain. Studies also found that vitamin E can help to keep nerve cells alive even after suffering from a stroke. Moreover, researchers discovered that vitamin E might improve the memory function of the aging population. Foods rich in vitamin E are almonds, peanuts, and canola oil. Moreover, you can get vitamin E from meat, dairy, and leafy greens.
But before taking more Vitamin E, it is important to check with your doctor first. Vitamin E can affect several medications.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is essential for the brain to function normally. Moreover, the immune system needs vitamin B6 to stay healthy. Vitamin B6 is known to improve brain functions. Researchers show that vitamin B6 improves memory functions along with numerous tasks on the whole body. People with kidney diseases are maybe more likely to develop a vitamin B6 deficiency. You can find Vitamin B6 in carrots, eggs, vegetables, and tuna. Vitamin B6 is considered safe, but please talk to your doctor before taking vitamin B6.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 has an essential role in:
- The formation of red blood cells
- Nerve function
- Blood levels of homocysteine — homocysteine is an amino acid helpful with brain function
- Repair the brain’s nerve fibers
- Memory enhancer when it works together with vitamin B6
You can find Vitamin B12 in meat, fish, and dairy products. Therefore, if you live a vegan lifestyle, you may be at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency if you don’t take supplements.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a known antioxidant and may increase your memory functions. Researchers found a correlation between babies who suffered from vitamin C deficiency and memory problems. Moreover, another study confirmed that vitamin C has protective properties against memory loss. Excellent sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits like lemon, lime, or grapefruit.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D has many uses like:
- Maintaining healthy bones
- Regulates several cellular functions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant properties
- Can protect brain function
Researchers could show that the lack of vitamin D disrupts the brain’s ability to plan and form new memories. Naturally, you cannot find Vitamin D in high quantities in many foods, but your body can produce it. Thirty minutes of walking through sunlight helps your body make vitamin D. If you cannot go outside, talk to your doctor about vitamin D supplementation.
Resource Links:
- “A Public Health Issue: Dietary Supplements Promoted for Brain Health and Cognitive Performance” vis Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
- “B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review” via Nutrients
- “A Systematic Review of the Effect of Dietary Supplements on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Young Adults and Military Personnel” via Nutrients
- “Common dietary supplements for cognitive health” via Aging Health
- “Nutritional Supplements and the Brain” via International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism