How to Enhance Cognition, Memory and Brain Function?

Having a strong mind is just as important as having a physically fit body.  We often hear and receive information about maintaining proper weight, eating right and exercising; we must not forget the importance of maintaining a fit an healthy mind.

The brain accounts for only 2% of the weight of the body but uses 25-50% of the total caloric and oxygen intake. There are different types of memory loss:

  1. Age-related memory impairment-forgetfulness that is a result of the natural aging process
  2. Mild Cognitive Impairment-a result of more than natural age related memory decline

How can we promote and protect Brain Health?

  1. Good sleep routine
    • Sleep consolidates memory, which is why it is essential.
  2. Proper eatinghabitsConsuming adequate nutrients
    • Avoiding food intolerances
      • Intolerances to the following foods have all been associated with symptoms of memory loss and cognitive decline:Sugar, Wheat, Dairy, Shellfish, Corn, Yeast, Soy nuts, coffee, tomatoes, peanuts, beef, eggs and potatoes
    • Eating antioxidant rich food
      • Antioxidants reduce free radicals that can cause damage in the body which can lead to aging.
    • Eatingorganic
      • Avoid the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables
    • Reduce or eliminate refined sugar and sugar substitutes
      • Depletes the body of many nutrients
      • Promotes inflammation
      • Increases free radical production
    • Eliminate caffeine
      • disrupts sleep patterns
      • depletes b-vitamins
      • promotes anxiety
    • Increase fiber intake
    • Drink Alcohol in moderation or not at all
      • excessive drinking negatively affects emotions
      • creates an imbalance of neurotransmitters
      • causes depression
  1. Exercise
    • increases blood flow and oxygenation
    • releases neurotransmitters-endorphins
    • strengthens neural connections
    • stimulates new neuron growth
  2. Balance Hormones
    • An imbalance, deficiency or excess of estrogens and testosterone can lead to cognitive decline in women.
    • Cortisol at high levels can result in memory loss, cognitive decline, impair the function of the hippocampus, resulting in atrophy and neuron death.
    • Imbalances in Thyroid hormones, Melatonin, Progesterone and pregnenolone can also result in sleep dysfunction, cognitive decline and memory impairment
  3. Supplementation
    • Nutrients that assist the brain
      • Omega-3-fatty acids
      • Vitamins and Minerals
      • Adaptogenic Herbs
      • Nootropic supplements
  1. Lab testing
    • identifies imbalances, excess and deficiencies
    • allows for accurate and proper supplementation

The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world’s problems.[/trx_quote

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