Brain Supplements for Memory, Well-Being & Overall Health

Brain supplements are a great way to get started with feeling better. They improve memory, reduce stress, increase energy and minimize or eliminate other ailments like anxiety and panic. Along with eating super brain food and exercise, as outlined in this site, supplemental capsules assist in overall well-being.

Multivitamin & Mineral:

Most of us don't receive all the vitamins and minerals that we require for good health from our diet. It helps to take a good multivitamin. Research has shown that, when taken with meals, mulivitamins are better absorbed into the blood stream. Thus, these nutrients are better utilized by your body and brain.

Benefits of fish oil

Fish oils are a fantastic source of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. These fatty acids help ensure good brain and heart function. Omega-3 fish oils are important for cholesterol reduction. Omega-6 and 9 are required as well, but generally we get plenty of these. It is omega-3 that we really need to add to our diets.

Phosphatidylserine (PS):

PS is an excellent memory booster. Double blind studies are show this to be true. PS penetrates the blood-brain barrier easily which means it acts fast. PS enhances overall brain function and aids memory loss due to normal aging.

L-Theanine:

This amino acid is found in teas as well as supplemental form. It helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Green, black and white teas all have L-Theanine.

L-Tyrosine:

This amino acid may help to alleviate stress and depression by increasing dopamine neurotransmitter levels. Tyrosine is found in protein foods as well as supplement form. Dopamine aids in clear thinking.

GABA:

This amino acid calms overstimulated nerve cells in your brain. In other words, it's an anti-anxiety supplement. It works well for many people. Consult your health care professional if you are using prescription anti-anxiety medicines and would like to try GABA.

Alpha-lipoic Acid:

Alpha-lipoic acid or ALA is being termed the 'super-antioxidant' by many health professionals. Some say the most potent of all anti-oxidants. It acts fast, like PS, easily penetrating the blood-brain barrier. ALA is both fat and water soluable -unlike any other antioxidant. This means it has a double positive affect on the cell and goes to work quickly. It actually helps other antioxidants in doing their job by restoring their free radical destroying powers.

Melatonin:

Melatonin is used to promote natural sleep patterns. It is secreted by the pineal gland at night to make you feel sleepy. It is reported to be a powerful antioxidant as well, destroying free radicals. Melatonin is available in supplement form.

5-HTP:

Used to relieve depression. 5-HTP is thought to increase the neurotransmitter serotonin. Studies have shown good results with 5-HTP. It may also be a good sleep aid as 5-HTP is a precursor to melatonin. It is not advisable to take it when on prescription antidepressants. Consult your health care professional. Natural antidepressants are not as potent as prescription antidepressants but may be enough to help without the negative side-effects.

SAM-e:

Also used to relieve depression. SAM-e is believed to increase serotonin and dopamine. These two neurotransmitters elevate mood. SAM-e reportedly works very well. It is not advisable to take it when on prescription antidepressants or consult your health care professional. Natural antidepressants are not as potent as prescription antidepressants but may be enough to help without the negative side-effects.

Grape Seed Extract:

The main active ingredient in Grape Seed Extract is Oligomeric Proanthocyanidinsa (OPC). This antioxidant has shown in scientific studies to benefit cardiovascular health and immune system balance. Other studies have shown that Grape Seed Extract may protect healthy brain and neural tissues.

Ginkgo Biloba:

From the ginko tree, ginko biloba has been known to improve memory, concentration, confusion, and even dizziness. It is believed to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation in cells. Increased blood flow means your cells will get more nourishing blood and be healthier. Do not take if you are on blood thinners. Consult a health care practitioner as required.

Co-Enzyme Q-10:

Co-Q-10 is reportedly a very powerful antioxidant brain supplement. In particular, it is thought to benefit the heart and brain.

Important:

Remember that natural brain supplements can be very powerful. It may take time by trial and error to determine what works best for you. Always consult a health care professional as required, especially if you are on prescription antidepressants or medications.