Natural Memory Enhancers as an Alternative to Drugs?
 Aging brings with it experience and wisdom, but it also takes some things too. You forget the name of an old acquaintance. A line from your favorite movie escapes you. At the store you wander down one aisle after the next trying to remember the last item on your mental grocery list. It’s clear your memory needs a pick-me-up, but you’re weary of the prescription drugs on the market. Natural memory enhancers might be what you’re looking for. Of course, before any new health regimen is started you should discuss the efficacy, possible side effects, and implications with your doctor.
These natural memory enhancers come in three main forms:
- Herbs and nutrients: Ginkgo Biloba; phosphatidylserine, a nutrient from soybeans; and pregnenolone, a naturally-occurring hormone; are just a few of the natural supplements that some suggest can boost your memory. Together they are believed to increase oxygen circulation to the brain, block against free radicals and promote neural growth.
- Foods: Eating the right diet may also increase and help retain your memory’s capacity. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, spinach and Swiss chard are recommended by some researchers, as are berries, plums, and cherry tomatoes. The Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, herring, and anchovies are also thought to help memory retention.
- Physical acts: challenging your brain with simple exercise can also help your memory according to some scientists. Try showering and dressing with your eyes closed, play crosswords or Sudoku in the morning paper, or take a class on an activity or topic you are unfamiliar with.
Alone or in combination, these natural memory enhancers may stem the tide of memory loss and maybe even bring a little back.
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