Support for Memory and Concentration
Our hectic schedules can absolutely breed forgetfulness, but when it interferes with our lives and daily routines, it may be time to look into natural and healthy solutions for memory and concentration.
As we age, our brains actually get smaller. Nerve tracts and neuron terminal branches decrease in size and blood flow to the mini vessels in the brain also decrease. Our brains use 20 percent of the total oxygen available to our bodies, and it is extremely important that the brain is able to continually receive this level of oxygen. Inflammation and high blood sugar levels in the body probably have the most deleterious effects on our brain's ability to function well.
The health of our digestive systems and a lack of toxicity in our bodies are key for brain health, memory, and concentration. Coconut oil has been in the news a lot lately for studies that show its positive effects on memory and concentration. There are many studies that show the benefits of taking three tablespoons of coconut oil per day, resulting in an improvement in Alzheimer's patients' memories. What is interesting about coconut oil is that it contains medium chain triglycerides or medium chain fatty acids (MCTs or MCFAs), which do not require many enzymes to break it down for it to be utilized by the brain and body.
MCTs start being digested in the saliva and can be absorbed through the intestines straight to the portal vein of the liver. They can be used immediately as energy for the body. MCTs also have high permeability into the mitochondria, which are the cell's energy centers. Therefore, MCTs in coconut oil are direct fuel for the brain and allow the brains neurons and cells to function better.
Coconut oil may be essential for people that have compromised digestive systems and toxicity in their bodies. However, all coconut oils are not the same, just as all nutritional supplements are not the same. I recommend MCT nutri-oil by Supreme Nutrition because it is pure and fractionated to contain 85 percent MCTs.
Whether a nutritional supplement will help someone's memory and concentration depends on their individual chemistry. Just because a supplement works for one person doesn't mean it will work for someone else. Bacopa Monnieri is an herb native to India that I have used in my practice to support patients seeking help with memory. In July 2010, a study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that Bacopa significantly improved memory acquisition and retention in the participants.
Phosphatidyl Serine is another nutritional supplement that is an amino acid derivative compound that is a major component of the phospholipid membrane of the cell. In the brain, it aids in the storage, release and activity of neurotransmitters and receptors. It helps the cells to communicate with each other and acts as a conductor of cellular energy. This remarkable supplement also aids the endocrine system, specifically the adrenal glands in their functioning.
Lemon Balm is an herb that is actually a member of the mint family, and I have used it extensively to help certain patients that require support for memory and concentration. Researchers have discovered that lemon balm increases the activity of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, as well as other neurotransmitters. Acetylcholine is lacking in many Alzheimer's patients as well as certain individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.
Other nutritional supplements that I have had success with in supporting patients with memory deficit are turmeric, acetyl-l-carnitine, omegas, B vitamins, Vitamin D, green tea extract, phosphatidylcholine, and many others.
Two wonderful, gentle activities that can help support memory and concentration are as follows. One is alternate nostril breathing, which is a breathing exercise practiced in yoga. The other is a cross crawl exercise. Both stimulate the right and left hemispheres of the brain, which keep the brain sharp and active.
Alternate Nostril Breathing: close the right nostril with your thumb, and then Inhale slowly through your left nostril for a count of 4, hold both nostrils closed for count of 8 or 16 (whichever count you feel is best for you), then release the right nostril and close off the left nostril with your pinky and ring finger of same hand and breathe out for count of 8 through right nostril. Now inhale slowly through the right nostril for a count of 4, hold both nostrils closed for a count of 8 or 16 (whichever count you feel is best for you, as before), keep your right nostril closed, open your left nostril and breathe out for a count of 8 or 16. Repeat back and forth for at least 10 minutes per day, followed by sitting quietly for a couple of minutes.
Cross Crawl exercises: Start in a standing position. For the first part, raise your right foot off the floor while bending your right knee and touch your knee with your left hand, put your right foot back on the floor. Then do the same movement on the opposite side by raising your left knee and touch it with your right hand. Continue to alternate back and forth for 2 to 3 minutes. For the second part, bend your right leg at the knee towards the back of your body and touch your right hand to your left heel, then alternate by touching your left hand to your right heel in the same manner. Do this for 2 to 3 minutes.
Feeding the brain the nutrients it is lacking is a vital component not only to improving memory but helping combat the effects of the aging process, especially as it relates to cognition. If you would like to know what nutrients can support your specific memory and concentration needs, individualized muscle testing can help.
Dr. Louis Granirer is a leading Holistic Chiropractor in NYC specializing in holistic remedies for good health maintenance and prevention of disease. Visit his website at www.HolisticChiropracticCenter.com to learn more.
Comments
Post a Comment