Wouldn’t it be great if you could just pop a pill and remember everything for a meeting, presentation or exam? Realistically, there are no supplements that can boost your brain power to those levels. But, studies have shown that regular intake of certain supplements increases the ability to memorize.
There are many herbs, supplements and foods that can improve your brain; the effect of which can mean improvement of memory, learning, concentration, attention, reasoning, social skills, decision making, and focus. If you can combine these ‘brain foods’ with sufficient rest and exercise, you will boost your brainpower in no time.
The brain requires a variety of nutrients to produce neurotransmitters; substances that control mood, behavior, and mind. Studies have proved beyond doubt that nutritional supplements can increase IQ and enhance learning ability. ‘Smart nutrients’ (cognitive enhancing supplements) are natural substances that improve human intelligence.
Ginkgo Biloba:
This substance has been used for thousands of years in Eastern cultures and is perhaps the most well-known of all memory enhancing herbs. It works by thinning the blood in the brain thus enhancing blood flow to the brain; supplying lots of oxygen to the brain. It also gets rid of harmful free radicals that damage brain cells. However, the results are not immediate. Taking the supplement regularly for a few weeks will start producing results.
Green Tea and Black Tea:
Research has shown that common constituents of the kitchen are very effective in combating Alzheimer’s disease. The most significant result seems to be that these prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine. This is a key chemical involved with memory and is deficient in Alzheimer’s patients.
Sage and Rosemary:
Scientists believe that sage contains substances that may increase levels of a chemical that transmits messages to the brain. Rosemary also helps stimulate the memory and alleviate mental fatigue. It also strengthens mental clarity. How exactly these substances help the brain remains ambiguous.
Iron:
The most common deficiency in most parts of the world is iron deficiency. Poor concentration, diminished intelligence, and a short attention span are all attributed to iron deficiency. Iron helps carry oxygen to the blood and its deficiency leaves the brain lacking in oxygen. Iron deficiency can be detected by a simple blood test. Iron-rich food like lean meat, beans, iron-fortified cereals, and iron supplements can raise the levels of iron. But absorption of iron required the presence of vitamin C. Garnishing iron-rich food with lime juice is one of the most effective and natural ways to get Vitamin C and iron together.