11 Antioxidants that Protect Against Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline

Of the resources that people rely on to navigate their lives, the one taken most for granted is also the one that is relied on the most – memory. Did you know 50 percent of Americans over 65 are unable to recall even simple names and numbers because of common age-related memory loss? As you get older, blood vessels in the brain may narrow, reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain. This creates energy shortages in the brain and may cause: Mild memory problems associated with ageing Diminished concentration Mood swings Decreased mental energy Age-related mental decline and memory problems can be also caused by other factors including harmful free radicals. These highly-reactive forms of oxygen create a chemical reaction called oxidative stress which can damage brain cells. If free radicals get out of control, cells are damaged faster than they are repaired. Like a biological form of rust, a lifetime of oxidative stress can lead to diminished brain function. Free radicals can not only assault us internally, but they can wreak havoc from the outside as well, primarily through the skin and lungs. Today’s modern industrial environment in concert with the sun’s ultraviolet rays produce free radicals. Many are unaware that in the presence of heat and sunlight, ozone forms quickly from nitrogen oxides in polluted air and volatile organic compounds from vehicle exhaust. Ozone is a highly reactive gas and the main component of smog, which is a key contributor in the formation of free radicals. This is the perfect storm for oxidative stress. Additionally, chemical pesticides, herbicides, and petrochemical paints and solvents are also sources of free radical exposure. Moreover, when people eat fats processed at high temperatures or fats that are deep-fried, they are consuming foods that add to the free radical load. And don’t forget tobacco of all kinds is a major producer of free radicals. 11 Antioxidants for Cognitive Health Where would we be without our intellect, imagination and creativity? How would we survive without memory, intuition or your ability to reason?  http://kyleleon.thepro.dj/

You rely on these mental faculties every day of your life, so where does that leave you if you are not taking the necessary steps to promote mental clarity and cognitive health? Mental clarity can improve memory, help you better handle stress, and make you more efficient and productive. Mental clarity will help you perform well in your job; learn and retain information; solve complex problems; and help you to relax. Is true mental clarity this elusive phenomena or something that is realistic to obtain? Well, there is good news. You can have mental clarity and have it soon. Evidence is mounting that cumulative oxidative damage to brain cells causes fuzzy memory, slow learning, and the loss of coordination that is often seen with aging. In fact, according to Webmd.com, almost one in seven U.S. adults aged 71 and older have dementia and that oxidative stress is a one of the key contributors to this staggering statistic. Moreover, Alzheimer’s disease begins with oxidative stress long before any symptoms arise. That said, we need to include antioxidant-rich foods and supplements into our diet because they are powerful at decreasing the damage caused by free radicals. The following antioxidant supplements, among others, significantly support brain function and memory without the side effects of prescription medication: Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): This powerful antioxidant is both water and fat soluble and enters all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. It is the only antioxidant supplement that can easily access the brain. There is some evidence that it is useful in the prevention of strokes. Ashwaganda: A versatile adaptogen that can enhance the immune system, boost energy, calm the stress response, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It can enhance memory and mental acuity due to its antioxidant effect and ability to increase acetylcholine-receptor activity. CoQ10: A part of the mitochondrial electron transport system and synthesized in all cells, CoQ10 is essential to the body’s production of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Aging reduces access to CoQ10. Although it can be obtained from the diet (mainly from fatty fish, organ meats, and whole grains), as well as synthesized in small amounts, both of these routes decline with age. The body’s declining capacity to extract and assimilate CoQ10 in later years plays a role in the development of various disease conditions. Ubiquinol is the reduced form of CoQ10 and the form most highly absorbed.  http://kyleleonscam.makesit.net/
 
It is directly used in human metabolism as a lipid-soluble antioxidant. While standard CoQ10 (ubiquinone) supplements can be converted into ubiquinol in the body, this conversion can be less efficient in some individuals, based on age, genetics, blood-sugar status or level of oxidative stress. Ubiquinol promotes optimal cognitive function. The brain is extremely metabolically active. CoQ10 helps neurons make more energy. When neurons make more energy better brain function occurs. Curcumin: The active ingredient in turmeric. Researchers believe it may help reduce the plaque formation associated with Alzheimer ’s disease. The fact that India produces nearly all of the world’s turmeric (and consumes 80% of it), probably explains why many inflammatory diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, are not as prevalent in that country. In fact, India has one of the lowest Alzheimer’s rates in the world. People who are born in India and move to Western countries do not enjoy the same low rates of Alzheimer’s. Researchers believe the traditional Indian diet, which contains large amounts of turmeric, plays a significant role in disease prevention. http://kyleleon.allthingsme.net/