Testosterone is a hormone associated with a lot of myths. You have probably heard some, especially the negative ones, like violent behavior, aggressiveness, link to prostate cancer, and others. However, the hormone has nothing to do with these vices.
Contrary to most beliefs, testosterone is an important sex hormone in males. The hormone, alongside estrogen, determines whether the person is a male or female. Testosterone, being a male hormone, is associated with masculine characteristics.
Testosterone is produced in the testes in males and happens throughout one's life. However, females also have a small amount of the hormone produced by ovaries. Generally, the hormone plays a vital role in men’s health, and when the body doesn’t have enough, testosterone therapy is necessary for optimal functioning.
If you are curious to know more about the hormone, this guide explores the importance of testosterone in males.
The hormone has different functions in the body. There are some obvious ones and others you might not be aware of. Therefore, to function properly, your body's testosterone level must be within the recommended level.
The primary functions of testosterone include the following:
Muscles and Strength
Testosterone plays a massive role in muscles, as well as muscle production and strength. The hormone is one of the anabolic steroids, which means it stimulates muscle production. The anabolic effects allow protein synthesis, which helps in muscle mass building.
When the body has more muscle mass than fat, it experiences a boost in strength levels. That is why people take androgen supplements when they want to increase body and muscle strength.
Bone Density
Normal aging in men results in a decrease in bone density. This has been linked to decreasing levels or low t. When the body can’t produce enough testosterone levels, there is a chance of developing osteoporosis, a condition that results in the degradation of bones.
Weakened bones are risky as they don’t provide enough support to the body, which can lead to fractures. When the tests show you have low testosterone and suffer from weakened bones, testosterone replacement therapy can help boost your bones.
Facial and Body Hair Growth
One of the male characteristics is having a hairy body, which is a responsibility of the male hormone. Reduced levels can result in Androgenetic Alopecia. The condition results in permanent baldness. According to the study, the condition is more prevalent in the Asian population, with reported incidence up to 73% of the general population.
Apart from affecting head and pubic hair, testosterone affects facial hair growth. If you have normal testosterone levels, you experience optimal facial and other body hair growth. Thus, you will need to shave the beards regularly.
Sperm Production and Sexual Function
The presence of testosterone facilitates the sperm production. Since it’s the primary male hormone, it must be present for the sperm cells to be produced. The hormone is produced when the pituitary gland stimulates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone production. Luteinizing hormone stimulates the testis for testosterone production and works with FSH to facilitate sperm production.
Testosterone also is responsible for other sexual function. Actually, the hormone is directly linked with every male sexual response. High testosterone levels are linked with increased sexual arousal and better libido. Also, men with high testosterone level benefit from increased erectile function.
Cognitive Functions
Besides playing a major role in sexuality, testosterone plays an amazing role in boosting cognitive function. Testosterone levels in the blood highly affect the brain functioning. Studies shows a correlation between high testosterone levels and improved thinking and ability.
Men with high testosterone level show better performance in cognitive ability. Additionally, high testosterone levels have shown reduced chances of Alzheimer’s disease in older men. Generally, the higher the testosterone levels, the more it reduces brain degeneration.
Mental Effects of Testosterone
There is a high linkage between low testosterone and mental health among males. When your body produces enough hormones, it increases your well-being by promoting your mental health. Normally, testosterone helps to boost concentration and overall mood when produced at the right levels.
When you are experiencing male hypogonadism, i.e., low testosterone levels, it can cause mood changes. Usually, low t can lead to experiences such as anxiety, depression, and increased irritability.
Testosterone levels are highest at 20-25 years. The levels, however, start to drop as the man ages. The decline is normal unless it goes below the recommended levels. Although age is one of many factors that affect testosterone, there are conditions like diabetes, body weight, and others.
If you have low testosterone levels, what are the symptoms of low testosterone, and what are the effects to monitor? The symptoms can be classified into physical, emotional, and sexual symptoms.
Men suffering from low testosterone usually suffer from a variety of physical effects. Since the hormone is responsible for building muscles, a decrease can affect your muscles. Reduced muscle mass is one of the noticeable effects, which is characterized by loss of strength and stamina.
Although you might not feel a size reduction, you might lose the vigor you used to have when working or in the gym due to the reduced energy levels.
The function of androgen, specifically testosterone, is to facilitate muscle building. Therefore, a decline can reduce muscle protein production and cause increased body fat. The scenario can lead to difficulty in reducing body weight and building muscles since they require more proteins.
There is a direct correlation between low testosterone and the emotional soundness of man. As mentioned earlier, testosterone significantly affects your mood. Low t can cause mood swings. When there is reduced testosterone, it creates a hormonal imbalance. Once testosterone is reduced, there is a buildup of stress hormone called cortisol that leads to a bunch of problems.
When the body is experiencing elevated levels of cortisol, not only do you experience mood swings, but you can also get stressed and depressed. This is because testosterone isn’t enough to counter the effects of stress hormones.
Low testosterone can also lead to poor concentration in men. Some common symptoms of poor concentration include lack of focus, difficulty thinking clearly, and lack of physical and mental energy, among others. Some of these symptoms can result from reduced levels of testosterone.
Testosterone deficiency is mainly manifested in sexual matters. This is understandable as it’s the main male sex hormone.
The main effect of low testosterone levels is reduced libido. Low libido is the decreased sex drive to have sex. When the testosterone is low, you can’t respond to sexual stimuli efficiently.
Another common effect of low testosterone is problems with erection. Men with male hypogonadism often experience erectile dysfunction. However, it should be noted that in most cases, many things can cause low testosterone, leading to ED. Therefore, testosterone therapy doesn’t mean you will solve ED.
There are many causes of low testosterone in men. Some of the reasons include age, medical, and lifestyle factors.
Normal aging causes a slow decline in testosterone levels in men. As you turn 40, the testosterone level starts to decline at 1%-2% per year. While slow decline doesn’t cause concern, confirmation of low blood testosterone levels will lead to testosterone therapy.
If your doctor establishes your testosterone levels after blood tests are low, taking supplemental testosterone can greatly help. While slight reduction is normal, you should see a doctor when you notice symptoms like fatigue, muscle wasting, etc.
Various medical conditions are known to affect testosterone production in the body. One of the reasons why you might suffer from low testosterone is due to male hypogonadism. This a condition that is inborn or arises later in life. It might occur due to Klinefelter’s syndrome, undescended testicles, and testis injuries.
Apart from medical conditions, testosterone deficiency levels can arise due to issues with the pituitary gland. Normally, when the gland has problems, it can affect testosterone production. Some issues that can interfere with normal functioning include cancer treatment, HIV/AIDs, and inflammation diseases, among others.
Lifestyle factors also play a big role in the production of testosterone. Diet is one of these lifestyle factors that can cause the production of testosterone levels. Eating high in fat and salt food can result in low testosterone production.
Stress is another factor that leads to the production of low testosterone. Specifically, if you are suffering from chronic stress, it can reduce the amount of testosterone your body can produce.
Adults are supposed to sleep 7 hours or more. However, many people don’t achieve the recommended sleeping hours. Lack of sleep can significantly affect production, leading to testosterone deficiency.
Most men suffer from low testosterone as they grow old. However, it's not a must that declining testosterone symptoms will appear. Doctors must conduct blood test to diagnose low testosterone and recommend right testosterone replacement therapy. This treatment is aimed at reversing the effects of low testosterone.
Testosterone treatment usually involves use of testosterone pellets, testosterone gel, injections and patches.
Some of the benefits associated with testosterone hormone therapy include;
Increased libido
Enhanced mood
Muscles strengthening
Improved problem-solving ability
Improved red blood cell production
Boosting body energy
Although testosterone replacement therapy has many benefits, you can also experience the following side effects.
Increased cases of obstructive sleep apnea
Breast enlargement
Increased acne
Shrinking testing
Increased risk of blood clots
Besides taking supplements, you can boost low testosterone levels using natural ways like food and lifestyle adjustments.
Dietary ways of increasing testosterone involve the use of food as a remedy. Eating a balanced diet is one of the best ways to fix your diminishing testosterone levels. Some of the foods you can use to elevate testosterone include:
Fatty fish
Cocoa products
Leafy green vegetable
Eggs
Avocado
Berries and cherries
Shellfish
Apart from healthy food consumption, you can also boost testosterone levels by adjusting your lifestyle. Some of the lifestyle adjustments that increase levels of testosterone include the following.
Stress management
Adequate sleep
Frequent exercising and weight-lifting
Weight reduction
Cut the alcohol intake
Avoid estrogen-like chemicals
A lot of myths and misconceptions surround testosterone. Specifically, people always link reduced testosterone with masturbation. But, can musterbation cause low testosterone? Well, this myth has been debunked by medical experts. It has been established that there is no link between masturbation and low testosterone.
According to the study, masturbation has only short-term effects on testosterone, but there are no long-term effects. Different publications and studies didn’t link masturbation and the production of testosterone.
The other misconception is about the high levels of testosterone in men. Some people believe that having high levels of testosterone is associated with athleticism. However, it’s not always the case; testosterone doesn’t result in better performance.
Also, many believe that high levels lead to increased sexual vitality. While it can increase libido, it can also lead to severe side effects, especially supplemental testosterone.
Like in many societies, the use of supplemental testosterone in Malaysia is seen as one of the ways leading to aggressive behavior in men. Using testosterone supplements is perceived as a way of increasing sexual enhancements rather than treatment.
The prevalence of testosterone-related issues among Malaysian men, according to research, is higher than men of other origin. This means there is a likelihood of men in Malaysia developing issues that require testosterone supplementation.
The testosterone market in Malaysia is growing every year as more people embrace the use of hormone for testosterone therapy. The market is expected to grow to $1.42 billion in 2024. Therefore, selling FDA-approved testosterone will help companies reap big.
Choosing high-quality supplements is vital to ensure all your body hormones are balanced, enhancing proper body functioning. Beehive2u leads in the production of natural supplements that are ideal for men, women, and kids.
If you want to improve your health, the brand offers a variety of supplements perfectly suited for your whole body. From regaining your testosterone to better heart and brain health, Beehive2u supplements will make your life more fulfilling.
Testosterone is an important hormone in men. While a decline is expected, it's good to watch your body to prevent extremely low levels that can lead to severe complications. Adopting testosterone replacement therapy is amazing for correcting low levels. However, always seek doctors’ advice before supplemental testosterone.
References
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3412231/
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2021.712237/full
https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-testosterone#benefits
Health needs across the two genders vary primarily due to biological and behavioral factors, regardless of sociodemographic factors like age, education, and income level. Therefore, there is a need to focus on gender-specific health needs to achieve holistic well-being.
Malaysian men have a lower expectancy than their female counterparts. The leading health risks among Malaysian men include cardiovascular diseases, prostate cancers, urological diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia due to increased body weight.
Most of the highlighted health conditions arise from poor lifestyle choices, including smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor healthcare utilization. Fortunately, most of these illnesses are amenable to early intervention, including nutraceuticals and dietary supplement utilization for approved ancillary therapy.
Malaysia is among the Asia-Pacific countries dominating the global health and wellness market thanks to its nutraceutical ingredients supply. Its ethnic diversity and biodiversity allow experts to harness the health benefits of unique botanicals like cistanche tubulosa to generate nutraceuticals that enhance men’s cardiovascular health.
Also known as desert ginseng or Rou Cong Rong, cistanche tubulosa is a desert plant consumed as a tonic in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential benefits as a natural supplement. The traditional Chinese herb has active compounds that may support many health benefits, including:
Brain health (cognitive and overall brain function)
Restore and maintain healthy testosterone levels by facilitating testosterone production.
Promote cardiovascular health
Boost the immune system for enhanced immune function
Correct reproductive health problems, including male sexual dysfunction. Cistanche tubulosa may Enhance sexual function, including sperm count elevation, via testicular steroidogenic enzyme activation
Induce anti-inflammatory activities and counter oxidative stress
Support healthy aging: elevated blood serum testosterone levels improve physical function by alleviating frailty and chronic fatigue syndrome in aging men.
Overcome chronic fatigue syndrome, especially in exercise performance. Additionally,cistanche tubulosa may boost energy levels, as shown in studies featuring yang-deficient mice proposing cistanche as a potential ancillary therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome. Yang deficiency is also a factor in brain health and brain function. Later in this piece, you can read more about herba cistanche and its effect on brain function, nerve growth factor, and the central nervous system.
Countering low testosterone levels to prevent high blood pressure, especially among men with a family history of hypertension.
However, what does modern research say about the potential benefits of using cistanche tubulosa extract, such as Morilite, as an herbal supplement? Keep reading to learn more.
The cistanche tubulosa health benefits highlighted above apply to both genders. So, why is the traditional Chinese herb in a unique position to induce a positive effect on male health?
Cistanche benefits stem from the effect of its chemical constituents on testosterone levels. Although testosterone levels in men are synonymous with the male reproductive system, the hormone impacts multiple physiological functions, contributing to overall male health.
Besides regulating sperm count and enhancing sexual function, optimum testosterone levels regulate bone and muscle mass, fat distribution, and red blood cell production, helping to curb chronic fatigue syndrome by boosting energy levels. Also, optimum testosterone levels in men boost the immune system.
One study review featuring bird species established that testosterone may stimulate antibody-producing cells or lymphoid cells to release more antibodies by suppressing stress hormone production. Men have a lower innate and adaptive immune response than their female counterparts, making optimum immune system function a crucial male health benefit.
Cistanche tubulosa enhances antibody production in human lymph node lymphocytes. It does so via its primary ingredient's immunomodulatory effect; echinacea, one of the phenylethanoid glycosides present in cistanche tubulosa, has exceptional immunomodulatory properties.
Also, reduced testosterone levels are among the identified risk factors for chronic renal disease. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to ascertain testosterone’s role in chronic renal disease
So, how do the active compounds in cistanche extract boost testosterone levels? The prevailing theory is that it does so by inducing testicular steroidogenic enzymes. Testicular steroidogenic enzymes are the enzyme category responsible for testosterone synthesis.
One study utilizing cistanche tubulosa ethanol extract on rat sex hormone levels established that traditional Chinese medicine induces an androgynous effect. The study utilized non-volatile phenylethanoid glycosides, the active compounds in cistance tubulosa or herba cistanche, to measure sperm parameters. Results from the study showed that the non-volatile phenylethanoid glycosides raised testosterone serum levels in the rats after an increase in the expression of testicular steroidogenic enzymes.
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Male sexual health comprises the physical and psychological factors that allow a man to sustain normal sexual function. Healthy/ normal sexual function encompasses libido, erection, ejaculation, and orgasm. Therefore, issues like low libido and erectile dysfunction indicate poor sexual health.
So, how does cistanche tubulosa restore normal sexual function in men? As highlighted above, cistanche tubulosa ethanol extract triggers increased serum rat sex hormone levels in blood serum. Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in male vertebrae, and cistanche tubulosa’s effect on testicular steroidogenic enzymes can boost testosterone levels.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to get an erection or maintain one long enough for sexual penetration. It has numerous causes, including pre-existing medical conditions and psychological factors.
ED prevalence in Malaysia is approximately 70% among men aged 40 and above and ranges from mild to moderate and severe. Herba cistanche is among the traditional Chinese herbs showing immense potential as an ED remedy.
As highlighted earlier, testosterone is the primary male sexual hormone, and herba cistanche helps elevate testosterone levels. Although ED has varied causes that may require unique treatment plans, boosting testosterone levels is one proven approach.
Besides boosting testosterone levels, herba cistanche may shorten the erectile latency period while lengthening the erection duration. Moreover, cistanche extract may modulate luteinizing hormone levels in the blood; low testosterone levels coupled with high luteinizing hormone levels are an ED risk factor.
Low sperm count has numerous causes, including hormonal imbalance (causing a drop in testosterone levels), poor lifestyle choices, existing and previous illnesses, and semen lipid peroxidation (cell damage from lipid oxidation).
Cistanche tubulosa may tackle low sperm count from the hormonal imbalance angle by activating the testicular steroidogenic enzymes to increase testosterone synthesis. On the other hand, the chemical constituents in cistanche tubulosa may counter semen lipid peroxidation, preventing oxidative stress damage to healthy sperm.
Besides cistanche tubulosa extract, other nutrients that may boost men’s sexual health include:
Vitamin B3/Niacin by improving arterial health and normal hormonal function
Vitamin D via enhanced endothelial function, nitric oxide production, and healthy endocrine function.
L-arginine via nitric oxide production, although further research is necessary on the same
However, consult a doctor to establish the cause of your ED before using cistanche species or nutritional supplements to manage the condition.
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Cistanche tubulosa has numerous physical and mental/ cognitive health benefits for men. Below is an overview of what cistanche tubulosa does for your body.
The bioactive ingredients in cistanche tubulosa, including the phenylethanoid glycosides present in most cistanche species, induce the following physical health benefits.
Enhanced sexual function: Cistanche tubulosa promotes sexual health in men by boosting testosterone levels, among other mechanisms of action highlighted above. Besides men’s sexual health, the traditional Chinese herb may help manage female infertility symptoms.
Lower cholesterol levels: Poor lifestyle choices, including a sedentary lifestyle and poor diets, increase the risk of high cholesterol. As highlighted above, elevated cholesterol level from an unhealthy body weight is among the prevalent men-centric health issues in Malaysia. Cistanche tubulosa extract has hypocholesterolemic effects, meaning it suppresses blood serum cholesterol levels by enhancing the expression of enzymes that maintain cholesterol balance.
Improve cardiovascular health: High cholesterol is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack. The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) molecules tend to accumulate in the blood vessels of men with high cholesterol, compromising their blood-pumping efficiency and straining the heart. Fortunately, cistanche tubulosa's positive effect on cholesterol balance may inadvertently help preserve cardiovascular health.
Counters oxidative stress: The active compounds in cistanche tubulosa are scavengers that attach to reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing the latter from damaging healthy cells. Oxidative stress caused by ROS is in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, including those that impede cognitive function and promote unhealthy aging.
Induces Antiinflamation effects: Cistanche tubulosa’s mechanism of action in inducing its antiinflammation effects remains misunderstood. However, traditional Chinese medicine has active ingredients that potentially induce immunomodulating, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective functions to prevent pro-inflammatory disease development.
Age-related inflammation or "inflammaging) is in the pathogenesis of numerous age-related conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia. Thankfully, cistanche tubulosa's antiinflammation and neuroprotective function may help counter Alzheimer's and dementia.
Cognitive function is the collection of mental processes that empower humans to process and survive in their environments via knowledge acquisition, retention, perception, and reasoning. The brain is the primary organ that modulates cognitive function, so below is an overview of cistanche tubulosa’s role in improving brain function and overall brain health.
A study using cistanche tubulosa extract on learning and memory-impaired mice established that the herbal remedy’s primary active ingredients, phenylethanoid glycosides, enhanced memory and learning via the induction of the nerve growth factor. The nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neuropeptide (small amino acid chains that regulate neural activity) that modulates the growth, survival, and proliferation of target neurons. In the case of cognitive functions, the target neuron is the choligenic neuron, which regulates core cognitive functions, including attention, planning, and memory.
While emotions are not cognitive functions, they are states of cognition that influence behavior, including decision-making and problem-solving. Moreover, emotions influence learning behavior and may motivate learning.
However, emotional disorders like depression can compromise cognitive functions. Depression develops from the dysregulation of various body systems, but cistanche tubulosa has antidepressant properties that may help alleviate the effects of depression. The herb potentially induces its antidepressant effects by downregulating stress hormone production while increasing dopamine (motivational hormone) production.
For the most part, herba cistanche species contain bioactive ingredients that interact with various body systems to induce potential therapeutic benefits. However, cistanche tubulosa contains nutrients that may contribute to the body’s regular nutritional needs besides its nutraceutical elements. Below is an overview of the dietary nutrients in most cistanche tubulosa species or varietals.
Vitamin C: Cistanche tubulosa contains multiple water-soluble vitamins, but vitamin C dominates quantity-wise, comprising approximately 41% of the herb’s total vitamin content. Vitamin C's primary role in Cistanche tubulosa products is to support antioxidant effects.
B complex vitamins: The other water-soluble vitamins in cistanche tubulosa include vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, and B12. Vitamins B1 and B6 occur in the highest concentrations, while vitamin B3 occurs in the lowest concentrations. Nonetheless, the B complex vitamins contribute to synthesizing co-enzymes for cell metabolic reactions.
Essential macronutrients: Cistanche tubulosa species contain essential nutrients supporting vital body functions. Sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium occur in higher concentrations, while iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium occur in trace amounts.
However, the mineral concentrations may vary slightly depending on the species and the region of origin. For example, the cistanche deserticola cultured in a desert has a unique profile from that in a saline region.
Amino acids: Cistanche tubulosa has a high amino acid concentration. Amino acids are essential for protein and peptide synthesis.
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So, is cistanche tubulosa safe to consume? One study on cistanche tubulosa tonic generated from the herb’s bark established that the herb is reasonably safe for participant consumption. Moreover, follow-up toxicity tests after 28 days of cistanche tubulosa supplementation yielded no adverse effects.
Second, what is the recommended cistanche dosage for best results? The Chinese pharmacopoeia recommends taking 20mg of cistanche tubulosa daily as the ideal clinical dose. Moreover, it highlights that exceeding the dose does not enhance the herb’s clinical effects.
Nonetheless, factors like age and the target therapeutic benefit may call for varying doses. Therefore, contact a qualified healthcare professional before taking cistanche tubulosa supplements for guidance on ideal cistanche dosage.
You can take cistanche tubulosa supplements with or without food. Also, while the herbal remedy is reasonably safe, consumers may experience mild side effects if they consume higher doses, including nausea, mild digestive problems, and dizziness.
The prevalence of herbal medicine use in Malaysia is at 33.9%, indicating mostly favorable views towards herbal supplements. Moreover, herb aligns with the country's herbal monograph development by documenting high-value botanicals with the potential for producing nutraceuticals.
Additionally, its benefits align with the prevalent health problems in Malaysia's adult male population. Therefore, there is a ready market for high-quality cistanche tubulosa supplements in Malaysia
Male health remains a somewhat abandoned subject. Fortunately, cistanche tubulosa presents a solution for Malaysian men conscious about prioritizing their health naturally. With remarkable effects, it's impossible to deny the significant role that cistanche tubulosa can play in improving your health and wellness.
From improved brain power and elevated energy levels to achieving healthy testosterone levels. As a Malaysian man, you should consider taking cistanche tubulosa supplements.
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Brain health encompasses different branches, affecting our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. From motor to cognitive functions, sensory capabilities, social-emotional and behavioral aspects, these functions depend on our brain health and require a healthy lifestyle to work optimally. Functioning with a healthy brain is essential because it is a state we need to understand what we are capable of in life, no matter what challenges we face.
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Our brain health is essential to our physical, emotional, and mental health. One study suggests that our mental sharpness is better when the brain functions at its best. We have better memory and thinking capabilities and overall positive life satisfaction.
Another significant link observed by researchers is that when people have a positive attitude, the risk of Alzheimer's disease is low.
A healthy brain depends on a healthy lifestyle encompassing various habits. These include consuming a nutritious diet, promoting optimal cognitive function, exercising regularly, and leading a life where stress is not a constant. Understanding what your brain needs to function at its best is critical.
The food choices and activities listed below might seem difficult to adopt. Still, they will contribute significantly to your overall health conditions and ensure you grow older while functioning at your best.
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When you exercise regularly, your whole being benefits. Beyond improving our physical health and lowering the risk of chronic diseases, physical activity does wonders for our emotional and mental health. Exercise helps us manage stress and anxiety, thus reducing the risk of depression. No matter what your preferred exercise is, regular physical activity releases endorphins. These are chemicals in the brain that work like natural painkillers.
Our cognitive function can benefit from physical activities as well. In one study, researchers noted how the risk of dementia increased when individuals were not physically active at 45. Promoting cognitive stimulation through physical activity is how you can improve your brain health, as exercise can help prevent primary, secondary, and tertiary cognitive decline.
To create a long-term habit, identify an activity that brings you joy. Getting your 10,000 steps a day is one way to start. You can join a HIIT class or opt for a gentler exercise like yoga and pilates.
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Cognitive stimulation is a term medical professionals use to refer to an intervention involving activities that people with Alzheimer's can do to improve their cognitive functions, like concentration, thinking, and memory. You can benefit from these activities to ensure your risk of Alzheimer's is low.
There are general brain exercises you can do, like puzzles, word games, or solving mathematical problems. Reminiscing with others about past events also trains the brain to remain sharp. Then there are more specific cognitive exercises that target dementia.
You can invest in exercise workbooks. These books have different training games to promote reasoning, problem-solving, memory, attention, and orientation. You can find similar exercises on apps built to challenge the mind to keep it sharp. Lumosity, Elevate, and NeuroNation are a few examples of apps that help your brain stay fit.
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Studies show that the Malaysian diet could be healthier. Findings suggest deficiencies in legumes, fruit and vegetables, and dairy, while meat, sugar, and salt are abundant. Food is our fuel, and every part of our body functions better when we opt for the best options.
There are various diets, but an excellent point to remember is that the more fresh and less processed the ingredients you eat are, the healthier you will be.
Identifying which diet best suits your lifestyle and digestive health is the first step toward your well-being. Be more attentive to how your body feels after you eat certain foods, or you can visit a certified nutritionist to guide you toward the best foods.
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Several studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet is the best for brain health. This diet includes critical ingredients for optimal brain wellness, not to mention its physical, mental, and emotional impact. More than a diet, it is a lifestyle encompassing nutritious ingredients like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, fish, and healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil.
The advantages of the Mediterranean diet on the body are highly beneficial. Studies show how this diet can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke because it limits the amount of processed food, meat, and refined carbs you eat.
More importantly, the Mediterranean diet includes superfoods for the brain. The following are 12 foods included in the Mediterranean diet which can boost your brain health:
Fatty fish: Salmon, herring, and other fatty fish are rich in Omega 3, a critical fatty acid that sustains memory function, learning, cognitive health, and blood flow in the brain.
Avocados: A great source of unsaturated fat, avocados can improve retinal lutein accumulation and cognitive function.
Vitamin E-rich plant oils, like flaxseed oil, are excellent omega-3-rich sources if you prefer something other than fish.
Wholegrains like barley, quinoa, and oats contain B vitamins that lower brain inflammation.
Berries: As the brain uses up to 20 percent of the oxygen we breathe, it also needs the help of antioxidants to protect it from free radicals from secondhand smoking and pollution. Berries provide a rich source of antioxidants.
Olive oil: Besides being an antioxidant and vitamin E rich, olive oil also boosts critical chemicals in the brain, namely nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Nuts and seeds: Rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, nuts and seeds are a stellar snack for the brain.
Leafy greens, like spinach and kale, contain critical nutrients like beta-carotene, alpha-tocopherol, lutein, vitamin K, nitrate, and folate, which researchers link to cognitive wellness.
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that can improve blood flow in the brain. Moreover, this sweet treat contains compounds that can boost attention span, problem-solving skills, and memory.
Honey: Besides its immunity benefits, honey can improve memory to treat the early onset of cognitive deterioration and dementia.
Eggs contain lutein and choline, which are two critical nutrients for brain development, learning, and memory.
Natural supplements: Although they will never substitute a well-balanced diet, some natural supplements are useful to boost brain health. Natural products like Morilite can boost memory functions and learning abilities.
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Statistics show how stress is predominant in Malaysian citizens, as it is in many countries worldwide. The impact of chronic stress on our well-being is saddening. Stress can lower our immune system, change our reactions to people and situations, and decrease our energy levels. Stress can make us less focused and cause brain fog, lead us to abuse alcohol or drugs, and change our appetite.
Chronic stress leads to a chemical imbalance in the brain, affecting cognitive functions by making it harder to make decisions while triggering an imbalance in mood. Moreover, our mental health is at greater risk of disorders like anxiety and depression if our stress levels are relentless.
For optimal brain health, you must manage the stress levels in your life. One way to lower stress is to follow the former points. Moreover, choose to cut out the things or people causing you stress. Learning deep breathing techniques and mindfulness practices is another way to lower stress. Being grateful and surrounding yourself with people who support you and make you laugh is also essential.
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Several studies highlight the critical role of neuroprotective treatments for brain health. Neuroprotection refers to the strategies and mechanisms adopted to protect the central nervous system (CNS) from injury. Medical professionals embrace these therapies to lower the risk of cell death by using intervention and inhibition to avoid a pathogenetic cascade that leads to cell dysfunction.
There are two classes of injuries the brain can suffer. The first is acute, and examples include a stroke or trauma. The second is injuries caused by chronic neurodegenerative disorders.
Neuroprotective treatments promote cognitive functions and lower the risk of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Ingredients rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, like melatonin and erythropoietin, are examples of neuroprotective agents. Further research shows that iron chelators, antioxidant rich-foods, and gene therapy are other examples of neuroprotective treatments.
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Research shows that red wine is a rich antioxidant beverage that can regulate our blood sugar, lower bad cholesterol, and keep our memory sharp, but it does not mean we have free reign over how much alcohol we should drink. Moderate drinking is vital to maintain your cognitive functions and keep the risk of Alzheimer's disease low.
When you drink alcohol in large quantities, your whole body and brain suffer. Binge drinking or drinking too much alcohol regularly over several years can cause brain damage. Alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) can affect people as young as 40. Brain damage can include:
Damage to nerve cells.
Low levels of vitamin B1.
Damage to blood vessels.
An increased risk of head injuries.
These can lead to alcohol-related stroke, dementia, and traumatic brain injury.
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When you learn new things like an instrument or a language, you challenge your brain and refine your cognitive skills. The more challenges you give your brain, the denser the myelin levels in your brain become. Myelin is a layer found around nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Fatty acids and proteins make up this insulating layer, which allows electrical impulses to transmit efficiently along the nerve cells, improving cognitive skills and mental health.
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In one remarkable study, researchers observed how non-experienced meditators saw an improvement in their memory and attention when they prioritized a brief daily meditation. Although meditation is the most popular practice, you can include other mindfulness practices to strengthen your brain health and overall well-being, including journaling, yoga, walking meditation, and Tai Chi.
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Studies show that the impact of poor sleep is immediately felt, but it also has long-term effects. Daytime sleepiness is the most common symptom, but there is a higher risk of hypertension, anxiety, depression, and obesity. Further studies show how sleepiness leads to impaired memory, whether recalling short or long-term, and lack of focus.
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Based on 2017 stats, 29.2 percent of adults in Malaysia and 12.1 percent of children are experiencing mental health challenges. Observing, rather than reacting to our feelings, is essential to living a serene life, but it does not mean we should avoid our emotional health.
Anxiety and depression are two ways our minds can make us suffer, and these disorders can cause significant damage to the brain.
One study shows that cognitive decline in relation to anxiety and depression leads to a higher risk of dementia. Addressing your mental health issues is essential. Speak to a professional about your struggles, call a local helpline, and be honest with your loved ones.
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Loneliness plays a role in our brain health too. Studies show that lonely people have a higher risk of dementia. Having social interaction is how you can lead a prosperous life and enjoy good brain health. Start by surrounding yourself with people who support you.
If you feel a lack of support, be the person helping others. Visit shelters, homes for older people, and other communities where you can be there for others.
Although you may need a few reminders, an accountability buddy, or a good schedule on your calendar, it is possible to adopt these habits to lead a healthy lifestyle. Your cognitive functions, mental health, and the rest of your body need the care of nourishing food, physical activity, mindfulness practices, and other good habits to thrive at optimal levels.
Only once you dive into these healthy habits can you experience life on a richer level, where stress and anxiety are not overwhelming, and you know what you are capable of.
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In May 2023, the World Health Organization declared Covid 19 to be no longer a public health emergency as disease control is not a pressing issue anymore. Although medical professionals still refer to it as a pandemic, the virus is not a threat.
You may have gone back to your regular life months ago, but it does not mean you are doing well from a psychological standpoint. Our brains have had to cope with uncertainty during the two years of lockdowns- face masks, hand sanitizers, the risk of serious illness, and social distancing. Although life is always uncertain, no matter how hard we try to control it, Covid made us face this uncertainty without avoiding it, leaving many of us to lose footing and deal with severe mental health factors.
If you are experiencing the lingering psychological effects of Covid, it is essential to address them. This virus did one thing right: it made us face our fears. Now that it is no longer a threat, you must still make an effort to face the issues in your life to improve your brain health and all of its psychological elements.
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Covid has significantly impacted our physical, emotional, and mental health. It has also affected the economy and how we interact. We could not travel as effortlessly as we were used to or enjoy social well-being. Businesses had to close, and many of us had to start working from home. As the reports provided by the World Health Organization show, this virus created havoc, so it should not be surprising that it also created internal havoc in many people by deteriorating their physical, mental, or emotional aspects.
Many people suffer or are experiencing lingering physical health issues due to symptoms of the virus. For many, their respiratory system is not the same post-Covid. Shortness of breath is the most common physical consequence people experience months after becoming infected. Some have prolonged respiratory distress or damaged lung tissue, leading to long-term complications like reduced lung function, breathing difficulties, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Some individuals saw their chronic conditions, such as their cardiovascular system, deteriorate due to the virus. They saw their life suddenly shift with higher risks of cardiovascular complications, blood clots, heart attacks, and myocarditis, which is heart muscle inflammation. This happens because the virus can invade heart cells, causing cardiac injury. Those most vulnerable such as people with diabetes, cancer, and respiratory issues, were at a higher risk of experiencing these traumatic health issues.
Covid can also infect kidney cells, making people with renal failure, such as kidney disease, extremely vulnerable. There were cases where the virus caused long-term kidney damage. Our gastronomical system was vulnerable too during the pandemic as the virus can infect the cells residing in the gastrointestinal tract leading to many experiencing abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. One study shows that people with Covid are at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal issues within a year of infection. These consequences include irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, and acid reflex.
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This virus has impacted many people's physical health, but it has also affected people's brains in an unprecedented way. Many have had to cope with neurological disorders resulting from Covid, including headaches, dizziness, and loss of taste and smell. In extreme cases, people have experienced more severe neurological disorders like stroke, Guillain-Barré syndrome, seizures, and encephalitis.
Many people infected by the virus, even those with mild symptoms, experienced post-acute Covid syndrome or, as many refer to it, "brain fog." In this case, individuals have cognitive difficulties where they struggle to remain attentive and focused. These people cannot concentrate as they used to and have memory issues. As a result, these individuals have seen their quality of life decrease because they cannot go about life or work as they used to.
Covid can cause damage to brain tissue via excessive inflammation. Medical professionals observed how the virus triggers the onset of a revved-up immune system to combat the viral infection. But there were times when the immune system became overactive and resulted in chronic inflammation. The latter can contribute to brain tissue damage, known as a cytokine storm. The consequences of prolonged inflammation and a dysregulated immune system are significant as they can lead to neurodegenerative complications like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
The virus was especially severe on vulnerable people. Older adults with pre-existing conditions were more susceptible to experiencing the virus's extreme mental and physical consequences. Medical professionals note how individuals with dementia experienced a rapid decline in their brain health due to Covid. Although people advanced in age were more at risk during the pandemic, some children infected with the virus had an increased risk of multisystem inflammatory syndrome, which can have long-lasting consequences on their cognitive development. Individuals with certain biological factors were at risk too.
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Although it is easier to note the physical and neurological disorders that Covid caused, we all know its mental health impact is just as significant. We have all felt the present moment acutely. This happened when the virus impeded us from distracting ourselves as we were used to. This led to many people not knowing the right coping strategies to adopt. Moreover, the physical and neurological effects of the virus, even the thought of experiencing such consequences, increased our stress and anxiety levels in everyday life too.
At the same time, brain fog raised feelings of frustration and anger in many people. Experiencing two years of prolonged uncertainty, stress, and anxiety is unsuitable for anyone's mental health. It is no wonder that WHO declared that national institutes for mental health facilities worldwide have become undone with the volume of people seeking help.
These mental health strains directly impact how we deal with life because they affect how our brain operates. Studies show that chronic stress and mental health disorders can contribute to functional or structural changes in the brain. Addressing our mental health issues is critical to living serenely and protecting our neurological structure from neurological disorders.
Studies show that mental health disorders cause changes in the brain. Researchers note how the brain of individuals with mental health disorders has different anatomy compared to a brain that does not deal with adverse mental health factors.
For example, the brains of people with depression have a smaller hippocampus, a critical brain structure responsible for regulating feelings and memory. Similarly, people with schizophrenia have enlarged ventricles, which occur when brain tissue is lost. The structural changes in the brain can cause various disruptions in cognitive functions, behaviors, and feelings.
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Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain responsible for regulating our moods, emotions, and cognitive processes. Studies show that mental health disorders can cause imbalances in these neurotransmitters and inhibit them from doing their job well. Such an imbalance can lead to various consequences.
For example, people with depression have lower levels of serotonin. The latter is an essential neurotransmitter associated with feelings of well-being. There are other imbalances among neurotransmitters caused by mental health disorders, including those in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, and norepinephrine, resulting in a lack of concentration, mood swings, and anxiety.
Mental health disorders can affect the connectivity and function of neuronal circuits in the brain. A network of neurons forms the circuits, and their primary role is to create efficiency in communication between the different brain regions.
Researchers note how schizophrenia causes disruptions in these circuits, leading to abnormal sensory experiences and cognitive impairments. In contrast, anxiety disorders cause a heightened connectivity level between the amygdala and other regions in the brain associated with fear. As a result, a person can react with excessive fear and hyperarousal to non-threatening situations.
Neuroplasticity is the ability of neural networks to adapt by reorganizing synaptic connections and growing when learning something new in life or experiencing an injury. Having our brain adapt to new things is a critical part of living and learning how to handle stress but mental health disorders can keep it from such adaptability.
Long periods of stress, anxiety, or dejection can cause structural changes in the brain through neuroplasticity. For example, chronic stress can reduce the prefrontal cortex's size, an important region where our decision-making and impulse controls reside.
Although negative mental health factors can challenge our neuroplasticity, therapy can have the opposite effect. When we attend counseling sessions, we learn about positive changes and alternatives, thus enhancing the neuroplasticity and gray matter volume in our brain regions.
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There are many facets to memory. This cognitive process has various roles, including encoding and retrieving information and storage. Its forms are diverse too. There is working memory, short-term and long-term memory. Memory requires critical brain structures to function optimally. There is the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex, for example.
The link between memory impairments and mental health includes evidence in various studies. Whether it is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, or anxiety, research shows these mental health disorders cause different cognitive challenges, including memory issues.
Many people experienced dejection when this infectious disease hit. The uncertainty, isolation, lack of human contact, and the relentless amount of bad news triggered the development of mental health issues as authorities underwent disease control operations to keep the virus spread under control.
This mental health disorder can contribute to various consequences, including memory issues. People with depression can have more difficulty recalling episodic memory and remembering personal experiences or particular events.
The impact on concentration is another consequence, as is a lower ability to take in new information. The persistence of negative thinking in depressive people can cause memory impairment and an inability to handle stress, no matter how small the task may be.
Incessant negative thoughts and excessive worry in everyday life characterize anxiety disorders. People with anxiety can have difficulty doing the simplest things, such as walking out of their houses or eating when their anxiety is high.
During covid, many experienced heightened anxiety levels and an inability to handle stress as they faced uncertainty. Similar to depression, anxiety disorders can disrupt concentration and attention, making it more difficult for individuals to process new information and retrieve information accurately. For this reason, people with anxiety can have memory bias, where they unconsciously select what they choose to remember.
Some people have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from their covid trauma. From mental health professionals plunged in unprecedented trauma to patients who were ill and left isolated because they were infectious, many have a hard time remembering the darkest days of the pandemic.
It is a mental health disease that can drastically affect memory. Memories are intrusive rather than evasive in this type of mental health disorder. The person in question can experience terrifying vivid memories, including flashbacks and nightmares during unexpected moments.
Noise, images, and a specific location can trigger people with PTSD and take them back to a dark moment in their life that feels inescapable. Although the memories are automatic, people with PTSD experience memory gaps, too, and they often have difficulty remembering specific events. In this case, the brain attempts to protect the person from trauma by suppressing particular memories.
Research shows that the risk of schizophrenia increases by 11 percent with severe Covid infection. This mental health disorder causes cognitive deficits, including memory issues. People with schizophrenia have difficulties with working memory, making it more challenging to remember temporary information. Episodic memory is also tricky when schizophrenia is present. Individuals can have a hard time remembering specific events in their lives.
Memory issues, brain fog, and impeding mental health disorders are some of the ways Covid has affected our brain health. Although many of us are trying to lead the life, we led before the pandemic. It is one of the most straightforward coping strategies; realizing that your brain health demands work is critical. Hence, you'll be able to find the right coping skills because the brain is a complex organ that affects every aspect of your body and, ultimately, your life.
We all have varied coping styles, but some healthy habits are universal and can serve us well, regardless of age, gender, or health status. The following are the top ways you can improve your cognitive processes.
Although medicine has made us live safer and longer, we should never dismiss the power of natural ingredients to improve our physical and mental well-being. Honey is an excellent example of a natural ingredient with remarkable health benefits. Other less-known natural ingredients can promote brain health too.
Memoregain AIE2 is raw material extracted from Cistanche Tubulosa. The latter is a desert holoparasitic plant species, also known as the "desert ginseng," that many have used for centuries to treat various ailments, including cardiovascular health, the immune system, mental health, and inflammation. This traditional Chinese herb hosts a raw material called Memoregain AIE2. The latter can contribute various benefits to brain health. The raw material can decelerate brain degeneration, enhance memory and increase neurotransmitters and, in the process, improve cognitive function. Memoregain can slow down the deterioration of brain cells and lower the risk of dementia.
Exercise is critical for our physical health, but we may forget how essential working out is for the brain and its positive impact on our mental health. Aerobic activities increase the blood flow in the brain. Moreover, exercise increases endorphins in the brain, leading to less stress in everyday life, a better mood, and improved cognitive functions. Social well-being is another benefit of exercise when working out with a buddy or participating in a class.
We have plenty of mental stimulation in life, but that does not mean we're challenging our brains, especially if we are mindlessly scrolling or doing the same things. For optimal brain health, we need to challenge our brains.
For example, memory games, crosswords, chess, and puzzles can help this vital organ become sharp again after the stress of the pandemic. For a more significant and longer-lasting challenge, try to learn a musical instrument or a language to improve your cognitive flexibility and promote neuroplasticity. Challenging brain activities allow you to indulge in problem-solving techniques, expand your attention span and improve memory while lessening the impact of age-related cognitive decline.
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Many of us did not consume the best diet during lockdown. Yet, a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins is essential for the body, especially the brain. Foods like nuts, berries, fatty fish, and whole grains help nourish the brain, while processed and sugar-loaded food does the opposite. As per a study, there's a link between highly-processed food and cognitive decline.
The brain demands that we sleep well because, during this time, it can process information, consolidate memories and rejuvenate itself. Although the time varies from one person to another, the ideal range of sleeping time is between 7 to 9 hours for adults. Creating a serene sleep routine helps, especially if you are experiencing poor-quality sleep. Music, books, scents, and lighting can create a peaceful atmosphere. You can also listen to slow literature tales to fall asleep more peacefully.
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For centuries, mindfulness practices and meditation have helped practitioners return to the present moment. Much like Covid, these practices will have you facing the present moment and accepting it as it is, no matter how challenging.
Yet, while Covid overwhelmed us, meditation and mindfulness practices are gentler. These practices are perfect if you want to improve your focus and concentration. Through your breath, you realize you can view your life without judgment and ease your stress, anxiety, and depression. As a result, you improve your brain health. Mindfulness practices and meditation are the best coping strategies to lead a serener life.
The research to back up the benefits of meditation is vast, highlighting it as the best coping strategy for anyone dealing with mental health struggles. Studies show mindfulness practices can improve focus, attention, and emotional regulation. Meditation can also increase gray matter density in the brain regions, thus enhancing memory and learning. Ten minutes of meditation daily is enough to arm yourself with one of the best coping skills we have as humans. You can also consciously practice mindfulness every moment of your day by focusing on the present moment.
The virus deprived us of social support and the benefits of social well-being. No matter how many calls we made daily, we all missed the live interactions we had taken for granted. Now that the pandemic is long past, we can and should make the most of social support systems because they are essential for our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Our brain needs group activities and meaningful conversations to improve cognitive function and get stimulated.
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The World Health Organization declared recently mental health is a global issue as more people have or will experience a mental health issue. Facing your mental health issues is vital to avoid the degeneration of your brain. There are various mental health professionals out there who can help you realize there is more to life than fear. They will help you identify the right coping skills for your lifestyle. Through psychological help, you can learn about different coping strategies, including emotion-focused strategies that are healthier and better for your brain and avoid negative behavior that causes you more harm than good.
Covid plunged us into uncertain times, making it hard for many people to cope. Even so, humans have experienced pandemics and will do so in the future. Learning how to deal with the uncertainty life throws at us is how we can live life with fewer mental health struggles. Our brain is a magnificent organ, but we must prioritize our health to work optimally. Using the power of nature, mindfulness practices, and seeking help can improve your brain health post-Covid.
References:
Do you frequently misplace your keys? Do you forget the reason you entered the room? Do you have trouble remembering your thoughts mid-sentence? If you checked any of these boxes and are living a sedentary lifestyle, one essential strategy could help you boost your memory and overall brain performance.
What is the key to improving brain performance? More movement.
Your brain receives more blood when you exercise regularly and aerobically, notably the memory-related hippocampus. According to a 2017 study of 51 healthy men and women between 18 and 35, individuals with the highest levels of exercise had firmer and more elastic hippocampi and performed better on memory tests.
Like the rest of your organs and nerve cells in your body, your brain depends on healthy oxygen-rich blood flow. Every cell in your body receives nutrition, including oxygen, and pollutants are flushed away. Although it only makes up 2% of your body weight and weighs about 3 pounds, your brain consumes 20% of your oxygen and blood flow.
The long-held misconception that our brain cells age quickly is debunked by an exciting new study in human brain mapping, which reveals that the blood arteries that supply our neurons age more swiftly than nerve cells. Thus, you must safeguard your blood vessels to maintain a healthy brain and mental health for as long as possible.
In addition to memory loss and Alzheimer's disease, maintaining healthy blood vessels may help you avoid several mental health conditions and cardiovascular disease like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and erectile dysfunction, among others. Also, you'll have much more energy and are less likely to gain weight.
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According to a recent study, people with ineffective heart pumps may get dementia sooner because they are more likely to experience brain volume loss.
Researchers evaluated brain and cardiac MRI data from 1,504 Framingham Offspring Cohort participants without a history of neurologic illness.
The participants—all between the ages of 34 and 84, with half of them women—were split into three groups according to how well their hearts could pump blood (called the "cardiac index"). According to observational studies and experts, participants with the least blood flow from their hearts aged their brains by about two years faster than those with the strongest hearts.
Those who scored in the middle of the cardiac evaluation spectrum, with a low but still average cardiac index, had smaller brain sizes than those whose hearts were deemed to be in the best possible health.
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A 20–30% decrease in cerebral blood flow is linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. The most frequent cause of dementia in older people is Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is characterized by brain atrophy and a progressive decline in cognitive function that is associated with the loss of synapses and death of neuronal cells, particularly in areas of the brain that control learning and memory.
Recent research has revealed that substantial vascular factors play a role in the development and severity of AD and other types of dementia.
Patients with AD and other neurodegenerative illnesses have been shown to have decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF), ranging from 10 to 28%. Before considerable neurological impairment or the deposition of massive amyloid plaques, these CBF deficits can be identified early in the disease.
The severity of various cognitive symptoms correlates with the amount of blood flow loss, indicating that poor CBF may directly cause cognitive impairment in neurodegenerative illness.
Patients with AD and mild cognitive impairment performed worse on a general cognitive function test when their thalamus and caudate CBF levels were lower (MCI).
Increased CBF was linked to enhanced memory function in MCI patients, whereas lower CBF was linked to worse visuospatial perception and overall cognitive impairment.
In older people without neurodegenerative illness, reduced hippocampal blood flow was also linked to worse spatial memory. Eventually, it was discovered that decreased CBF predicted later cognitive decline in healthy individuals.
Your brain suffers from anything that harms your blood vessels or reduces blood flow. According to brain SPECT imaging studies, decreased blood flow is a factor in various behavioral and mental conditions.
The blood flow and activity of the brain are measured by a brain imaging procedure called SPECT. SPECT scans showing decreased blood flow have been observed in neurological diseases like:
Alzheimer's disease and memory loss
Depression
Bipolar illness
Schizophrenia
ADD/ADHD
harm to the brain from trauma
abusing drugs
Vasculopathy
The most reliable indicator of Alzheimer's disease is based on brain imaging, according to a study published in Nature.com.
According to Canadian researchers from the University of Calgary, older persons who began and maintained an aerobic exercise regimen for six months saw increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) velocity, cerebrovascular control, and cognition.
Improvements in executive function and increased verbal fluency were linked to improved brain blood flow brought on by exercise.
These results were reported in 2020 in the academic journal Neurology by Guadagni and colleagues.
Recently published cutting-edge studies (Thomas et al., 2020) highlight the positive effects of aerobic exercise and cerebral blood flow (CBF) on cognitive function.
The most recent research on the positive effects of cardiovascular exercise on the brain was published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. Binu Thomas and colleagues conducted this research at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
This one-year study showed that older persons at increased risk for vascular dementia could dramatically enhance their neurocognitive abilities by sticking to an aerobic exercise regimen for 12 months.
Subjects in the "aerobic exercise" group, who exhibited minor indicators of cognitive impairment before beginning aerobic exercise training, had an average age of 66.4 years and showed improvements in memory scores of 47% compared to a "gentle stretching only" control group.
What sort of regular physical activity did they partake in? Participating in supervised AE sessions of 25-30 minutes three times per week was the starting point for the study's subjects. Their weekly "dosage" (frequency/duration) of aerobic exercise increased steadily as their cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) improved throughout the 12-month research.
The optimal dose of AE related to enhanced cerebrovascular control and cognitive skills in a six-month trial of 206 older individuals with an average age of 66 at the University of Calgary looked to be roughly 40 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) four times per week.
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Even though the neuroprotective advantages of aerobic exercise have recently gained widespread recognition, it has been challenging to pinpoint the precise pathways by which physical activity furthers brain health, enhances cognition, and counteracts cognitive decline.
There is growing evidence that the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise on the brain and cognitive health can be attributed, in part, to the increased blood flow to the brain induced by these exercises.
Cortical blood flow (CBF) increases to the anterior cingulate cortex. The adjacent prefrontal cortex was associated with memory gains in persons with mild cognitive impairment in one-year research by Thomas et al. The scientists suggest that a shift in blood flow to AD-vulnerable brain areas may explain the restorative effects of aerobic exercise in this condition.
They assessed cranial scans depicting changes in cerebral blood flow following one year of aerobic exercise training in a population of all older adults and persons at high risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
The frontal regions, including the hippocampus, anterior cingulate cortex, and others, indicated a significant boost in blood flow. On the other hand, images obtained from a group of vulnerable older persons who merely stretched for one year displayed no change or a decrease in blood flow.
"We've demonstrated that even when your memory begins to deteriorate, you may still take action by including aerobic exercise in your daily routine. One day, a treatment or method may target blood flow to specific brain areas without causing harm. "In a press statement dated May 20th, Binu Thomas, a neuroimaging researcher at UT Southwestern and the study's first author, discussed the findings.
Here are just a few of the numerous ways that exercise improves brain function and safeguards memory:
As reported in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and other publications, exercise aids in growing the hippocampus, which is the Holy Grail of any memory-improving treatment.
It prevents the hippocampus from shrinking due to stress-related chemicals like cortisol. According to research on the hippocampus, even leisurely walking has been proven to enhance hippocampus size in women.
Below are three exercises you can start today.
1. Strength Training
According to a 2020 research in the journal NeuroImage: Older persons who engage in strength training for six months are less likely to experience hippocampal atrophy.
Another study evaluated the benefits of balance and tone training against weight training on cognitive measures over 12 months in women aged 65 to 75 and found that resistance training produced the greatest improvements. This research appeared in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
2. Tai Chi
Research published in 2018 in the journal Frontiers in Aging Brain found that older persons who exercised tai chi for 12 weeks improved their capacity to multitask compared to those who did not.
The prefrontal cortex, where executive function and higher-order reasoning occur, was also more active in this group. Tai chi has been shown to benefit older persons with no signs of substantial cognitive impairment in studies funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Individuals with mild cognitive impairment caused by dementia also observed improved cognitive abilities.
3. Yoga
According to a UCLA study from 2016 that was released in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, participants 55 and older in a 12-week campaign that included an hour of meditative yoga once a week and 12 minutes of at-home meditation saw substantial progress in their verbal memory (the capacity to recall lists of words) and visual-spatial memory, the ability to locate and remember places.
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Simply by moving forward with each step, you will be increasing your cognitive capacity through improved blood flow.
A minor study discovered that the pressure waves created by impacts with the ground send pressure waves in the opposite direction when walking helps blood flow to the brain.
Researchers at New Mexico Highlands University led by Ernest Greene and his colleagues concluded that "new findings now clearly imply that cerebral blood flow is quite dynamic."
According to the study, running, walking, and other exercise-related activities may enhance cognitive function and general well-being.
It was initially believed that the blood supply to the brain was an automatic process unaffected by physical activity or variations in blood pressure.
Yet, this study revealed that the impact of the foot on the ground during running and walking produces waves traveling in the opposite direction through the arteries, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the brain.
The authors hypothesized that these waves correspond to the runner's heart rate and stride.
In the current study, researchers looked at the consequences of walking, which has a much lower risk of foot impact than running.
Twelve healthy young people's cerebral blood flow was determined using ultrasound to quantify carotid-artery diameter and blood velocity waves while walking at a constant speed.
At rest, the individuals were also evaluated.
Walking significantly increases blood flow to the brain, according to the study. Although not as significant as when running, the increase in blood flow is more noticeable than when riding, which doesn't entail any foot impact, according to the study's authors.
Astonishingly, it took us this long to finally measure the hydraulic effects that impact the blood flow to the brain.
There exists an optimal rhythm between cerebral blood flow and walking. According to Greene, quoted in a press release from the American Physiological Society, average human heart rates (about 120 beats per minute) are compatible with the impact forces experienced by the feet during fast walking.
The study results were going to be disclosed in Chicago at the society's annual meeting. Until they appear in a reputable medical journal, the findings presented at conferences are often only considered preliminary.
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Below, you'll find several useful tips:
Incorporating nootropic supplements that enhance brain health and function by boosting memory into your daily routine.
Sip on more water! Daily consumption of no less than five glasses of water can minimize the chance of developing hypertension.
Increase your green tea intake and take it easy on the salt.
Daily omega-3 EPA/DHA fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D supplements, along with a high-quality multivitamin/mineral. Also, extracts of Ginkgo biloba boost memory.
Eat a daily serving of dark chocolate, preferably one ounce of cocoa flavanols.
Include more beets, green leafy vegetables, beetroots, beet powder, and cayenne pepper into your diet.
Increase your magnesium-rich foods, including seeds, almonds, and avocados.
Increase your consumption of foods high in potassium, such as sweet potatoes and spinach.
Avoid sugary drinks, fruit juices, and alcohol as much as possible (diet sodas included)
You should aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep every night, and if you notice symptoms of sleep apnea, you should consult a medical professional immediately.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a simple, painless, non-invasive, and effective therapeutic option. The properties of oxygen are used in this treatment to boost the body's innate capacity to repair itself. Comparing pre-treatment and post-treatment SPECT images of those who have had HBOT reveals a considerable improvement in blood flow.
We are just beginning to investigate the best mix of tactics to aid in preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease symptoms. The relationship between the brain and old age is still poorly understood. Plus, the blood circulation in the brain is a puzzle piece, and we must keep putting it together bit by piece.
Yet, there is enough evidence to indicate that beginning a fitness program can have long-term advantages for the health of the brain aging well. In addition to engaging in physical activity, various other methods can be utilized to enhance blood flow.
These methods include receiving medical treatment for conditions related to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and vascular issues, as well as refraining from engaging in activities such as smoking and consuming caffeine, which is known to restrict blood flow to the brain.
Sources:
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/health-supplements-kefir/morilite-cistanche-tubulosa/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/scientists-map-genome-regions-regulate-speed-brain-aging
https://www.britannica.com/topic/child-abuse/Dangers-of-overreaction
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/health-supplements-kefir/#
https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/physical-activity-brain-health/index.html
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/digital-transformation-in-healthcare-2023/
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/electronic-medical-records/
As we grow older, we must take care of our cognitive health. You may have seen cases of memory loss or poorer brain health in older adults, and this is not a coincidence. Various factors can contribute to the normal ageing process, and our brains may be prone to weakening over time. This phenomenon carries numerous neurological disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment, or some more severe cases, such as Alzheimer's disease.
A study has found that over 55 million people worldwide have dementia caused by the ageing process or injuries. However, there are ways to prevent ageing and have a healthy daily life, even in our oldest days. Today, we will talk about some factors contributing to memory loss and brain health, as well as what you can do to prevent symptoms of ageing and decrease your chances of medical conditions.
As we age, we may lose brain function, leading to various diseases caused by dying of the brain tissue. Although this process may seem irreversible, there are ways to prevent cognitive decline and live a happy life. Below, you will see some of the most common factors influencing our brain health connected to ageing.
We are exposed to numerous toxins and environmental factors that may speed up ageing. For example, alcohol may be one of the leading factors influencing your brain function. You may not notice the symptoms at first, but as you age, your brain cells may age faster due to environmental circumstances.
Moreover, many people expose themselves to risk in their workplaces. People who work as, for example, hairdressers expose themselves to chemicals and toxins that may damage the brain cells. Thus, environmental factors, such as toxins and chemicals, can influence our health, putting us at risk of decreased mental function that may occur in older adults.
Scientists have discovered genomes responsible for inheriting the average ageing speed in older adults, creating a map of genomes that regulate this factor. Some people may inherit faster ageing from their ancestors. For example, if your parents have Alzheimer's disease, there is a chance that you will have it as well.
Due to genetics, you may be more prone to poorer brain health and may experience symptoms before age 50. However, this factor depends on your genetics and how your body will accept the genomes of your ancestors. It may not always be the case that you will inherit a brain disease, and there isn't a pattern to determine who will and will not get a diagnosis.
Stress is one of the factors that can influence our overall health. This factor is responsible for numerous diseases, such as diabetes, heart problems, mental health conditions, etc. Although removing stress from our lives is impossible, it is essential to take disease control and start working on stress management.
Aside from the abovementioned diseases, stress can influence the brain state of older adults. For example, if exposed to stressful circumstances for extended periods, a patient may develop Alzheimer's disease or memory loss. Thus, stress may be one of the crucial factors regarding cognitive health due to its influence on the brain and our overall well-being.
People are social beings who require social interaction to function correctly. A healthy life isn't without friends, family, partners, or other social connections. Thus, if an individual isolates themselves from social engagement, it may lead to health issues, such as brain function difficulties. We need people to live everyday life and deal with brain problem prevention.
There have been numerous isolation experiments from which people have come out entirely different.
You may have also heard about feral children experiments where children have lost or not developed speaking or social skills and have had severe anxiety due to a lack of social interaction and engagement. Humans need social interaction to live healthy lives.
People with chronic health conditions are more prone to brain diseases than healthy people. These conditions can affect brain connections and increase the chances of poor brain health. For example, diabetes patients may be exposed to depression and brain ageing faster than an average human. Moreover, people with diabetes may experience nerve damage leading to poorer cognitive performance later in life.
Another condition that can contribute to brain ageing relates to heart health. Any cardiovascular disease can leave a mark on your health, but when it comes to brain function, these diseases can damage blood vessels that provide the brain with what it needs. A person with poorer cardiovascular health, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease may experience brain health issues.
You may have heard a million times that good nutrition is vital for a healthy lifestyle. We must incorporate as many macronutrients and minerals as possible to keep our bodies healthy. Every organ in our body requires special care and nutrients to function better. For example, muscles need protein to grow and keep our bodies as strong as possible.
On the other hand, the brain requires whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids, and numerous vitamins. If we don't provide these nutrients to our bodies, they may bail on us. For example, not giving the brain enough vitamins may affect its function and contribute to developing brain disease.
We have mentioned a couple of factors that may influence your brain health, but the list goes beyond recognition and science. However, there are proven methods that can help you sharpen your brain and prevent major health concerns in older adults connected to brain ageing.
Below, we will present some activities you can do to prevent diseases and live a healthy life.
Engaging in mental activities can be crucial for your brain health. You can do numerous activities to stay mentally active; for example, you can find a puzzle or strategic game you like (such as crossword puzzles or a jigsaw puzzle) that will work on your memory.
It's also good to draw some places you've visited, such as your home street, from your memory to improve your cognitive abilities.
You have to incorporate various brain exercises to maximize their effectiveness. For example, you can play chess with your friends or family in the morning and solve a crossword puzzle in the evening. Ensure to switch between different activities to increase the difficulty and make your brain work more.
Regular physical activity can benefit our mental health as much as it is for our physical ones. Exercise can open our blood vessels, improving blood flow and providing our brains with the necessary function. Moreover, exercise can prevent brain shrinkage and improve our overall cognitive performance.
To prevent dementia and fight off other diseases, we need to treat our bodies as armour. The better the armour, the fewer the chances of developing a brain disease. Bettering our physical performance will sharpen our brains and help us think more clearly.
Physical activity will boost your cognition and help you with problem-solving skills, according to CDC research. Thus, caring for your body will ultimately reflect on your brain health.
Numerous groceries nowadays contain toxins and chemicals in small quantities, and, in most cases, we are unaware of their effect. Sometimes, we cannot control what we intake.
However, there are some toxins we can manage to better our performance and prevent cognitive decline in the future. These toxins are essential in brain ageing and numerous other health aspects.
For example, nicotine and alcohol are common toxins affecting our health, such as our cardiovascular system, and speeding up the natural ageing in adults. Caffeine can also be harmful to our health in larger quantities.
Thus, it is essential to restrict toxin intake to live a healthy life. You can also switch to organic foods for better health care.
Medicine should be a regular part of our lives. Every individual should occasionally visit the doctor to check whether everything is fine. Your doctor can keep track of your brain aging and see whether you need help suppressing the normal aging speed.
Moreover, your specialist can detect whether something else may contribute to cognitive decline or dementia later in life.
For example, your specialist can check your blood pressure and see whether it puts you at risk of other health issues such as Alzheimer's.
Your doctor can act quickly and prescribe you medication to help you fight off any enemies that may affect your future. Regular check-ups can save your brain and memories, providing a healthy life.
As we have mentioned, being socially isolated can negatively impact your brain. Older people tend to spend their time alone, which can increase the risk of brain diseases. To prevent this, we should spend time with our families and friends to improve our cognitive capabilities and save our memories in the long run.
Any social interaction helps ward you from brain decline; even if you grab a drink with your friend for half an hour can benefit your brain. You can preserve your memories by making them with your loved ones.
They will take care of your well-being and decrease the chances of you requiring medical assistance in the future.
Learning a new skill can help you make better brain connections, leading to better performance. You should pick up whatever interests you and try to learn a new skill whenever possible. Whether making crossword puzzles, learning how to bake, or crocheting a beautiful sweater, these mind-engaging activities can help you keep your brain healthy.
One of the best things you can learn is a new language due to its benefits on your cognition. You will continuously improve your problem-solving skills while keeping your mind active.
You will positively alter your brain chemistry by thinking in the new language. It will prevent cognitive decline and help you improve your memory.
We have mentioned that stress puts you at risk of numerous diseases. When in a stressful situation, your heart rate can increase, causing difficulty breathing and leading to cognitive decline if exposed to stress frequently. Although you cannot avoid stress, you can manage the situation.
Depending on what causes stress in your surroundings, you can act accordingly. The easiest way to manage stress is to talk to a specialist who will propose a detailed plan to control a stressful situation. Everyone should learn how to act during stressful times to decrease the chances of developing a disease. A stress-free life is a healthy life.
Getting enough sleep can positively impact our bodies. Eight hours of sleep every night will help you replenish your mind and focus during the day. However, we often encounter distractions that prevent us from going to rest or creating a sleep pattern. For example, you may wait for your favourite TV show to start at a particular time during the night, creating an inconsistent pattern.
You may also use your smart devices to distract yourself by watching social media content; before you even know it, it is 2 am, and you cannot get enough sleep before work. To create a consistent schedule, you should be strictly on time and avoid any possible distractions. Leave your phone in the other room at least an hour before bedtime to improve your sleep quality.
All of us like to snack by the TV and eat some chocolate every once in a while. Although snacks are not bad, they cannot replace a meal. When preparing a meal, you should consider all the nutrients your body needs to be healthy and have an excellent immune system. For example, you need vitamin C to fight off viruses and influenza.
It would be best if you also considered what your brain needs. Incorporate as many fatty acids as possible into your diet for the best results. Nuts and whole grains are packed with nutrients that can better your memory and prevent brain decline in older people. Food gives us strength and health; thus, you should eat mindfully and provide your body with what it needs. After that, you can snack on some chocolate with no risks.
Our brain is what controls everything else in our body. It is the mastermind behind all our functions; once it starts declining, our health also starts declining. Thus, taking care of our minds to live healthy lives is essential. Frequently, older people experience a cognitive decline due to poor lifestyles and genetics. We have explained how our brains age and what you can do to prevent this process and keep your memory spotless for a long time.
It is essential to mention that the brain condition will depend on an individual and that not all of the tips we have mentioned are suitable for everyone. However, you can try some of our recommendations because they won't harm you; you can only discover what you like and make your brain as healthy as possible.
Sources:
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/health-supplements-kefir/morilite-cistanche-tubulosa/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/scientists-map-genome-regions-regulate-speed-brain-aging
https://www.britannica.com/topic/child-abuse/Dangers-of-overreaction
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/health-supplements-kefir/#
https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/physical-activity-brain-health/index.html
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/digital-transformation-in-healthcare-2023/
https://nmchealthcare.com.my/products/electronic-medical-records/
The brain is a complex and sophisticated organ comprising the central nervous system and the spinal cord, and it manages our thoughts, actions, cognition, and emotions.
The brain experiences multiple changes throughout the aging process, such as decreased cognitive abilities and recall. Certain brain parts also shrink, including those critical to learning, reasoning skills, and other complex mental activities.
The communication between neurons may also not be as effective as they once were in some areas of the brain. This is where brain supplements can be helpful.
Dietary supplements intended to enhance cognitive and mental function, such as memory and concentration, are called brain supplements, nootropics, smart drugs, or cognitive enhancers.
These nutritional supplements, like pills, powders, or capsules, come in various forms and can be made from natural or synthetic ingredients.
Understanding the science and researching the potential advantages and adverse effects of brain supplements is crucial before considering them as a solution for enhancing cognitive capabilities and memory.
This comprehensive guide will discuss the science, more research behind supplements, the benefits, how to choose the right supplement, and popular supplements to try!
Brain supplements specifically target neurotransmitters in the brain that channel signals between neurons.
These supplements can positively impact the release or production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which play a critical role in cognitive function, mood, and memory.
As a result, research shows that taking these supplements can enhance memory, focus, and overall brain function.
Besides influencing neurotransmitters, these supplements can enhance brain activity by boosting blood circulation. It can improve the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the brain cells and cognitive enhancement.
Ginkgo Biloba and Vinpocetine supplements are two examples that might increase blood flow and improve memory and cognitive function.-
Additionally, Omega-3 Fatty Acids supplements have anti-inflammatory properties and can help lessen inflammation in the brain, which is often a common factor in various neurological conditions.
As you grow older, your cognitive capacities can gradually decrease, leading to concentration, memory retention, and information-processing challenges. Luckily, some brain supplements claim to enhance these capacities.
These supplements offer various potential advantages, such as:
1. Improved Memory
Brain supplements are famous for their effectiveness in enhancing memory. Popular supplements such as Ginkgo Biloba and Bacopa Monnieri have also been observed to improve memory and recall in young and older adults.
They boost memory function by increasing blood flow to the brain to bolster oxygen and nutrient transportation to nerve cells and improve overall brain function.
Supplements for the brain, such as caffeine and L-Theanine, can enhance mental performance and improve long-term and short-term memory, concentration, and vigilance.
Caffeine acts as a stimulant, heightening cognitive functioning and diminishing tiredness. On the other hand, L-Theanine is an amino acid that may improve focus and reduce stress levels.
3. Reduced Anxiety and Depression
Certain brain supplements, such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola Rosea, have been demonstrated to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
These supplements achieve this by lowering stress hormones such as cortisol while increasing the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood.
Dietary supplements such as Creatine and Omega-3 Fatty Acids can enhance healthy people's brain function and cognitive performance.
Additionally, Omega-3 Fatty Acids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe inflammation in the brain that is sometimes associated with diverse neurological issues.
5. Prevention of Cognitive Decline
As people age, cognitive decline may become a concern for some. Fortunately, brain supplements, such as Curcumin and Resveratrol, have been found to aid in reducing the risk of these issues.
Extracted from turmeric and often found in red wine, respectively, these supplements have been shown to benefit brain function and may help prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
While brain supplements can provide many benefits, they also come with some potential risks and adverse effects, including:
Side Effects:
Some brain supplements can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and insomnia.
Interactions with Medications:
Brain supplements can interact with medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Lack of Regulation:
The FDA does not regulate brain supplements, so their safety and efficacy are not guaranteed.
Potential for Addiction:
Some brain supplements like caffeine and Modafinil can be addictive and may cause dependence.
Choosing the right brain supplement can be daunting, as numerous options are available. However, it would be best to consider certain factors when choosing a supplement to ensure you get a safe and effective product.
Firstly, you should look for brain supplements that have undergone clinical trials and are proven effective. This guarantees that the supplements are safe and efficient, with minimal side effects.
Moreover, selecting natural supplements from reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients is best. Independent testing from third-party groups can certify the ingredient quality and purity in the supplements you pick.
Once you find a suitable product, you must also follow the recommended dosage on the label or as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Taking too much of a supplement can be harmful, so following the recommended dosage carefully is essential.
It's also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before taking a brain supplement, especially if you're taking medication or have any underlying health conditions. An expert can guide you on whether a brain supplement is right for you and how it may interact with your medicines.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is a research centre in the United States committed to exploring the safety and effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices and products, including natural herbs used for brain supplements.
The NCCIH focuses on a wide range of approaches, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, and stresses the importance and need for rigorous research to establish the safety and effectiveness of these remedies and supplements.
Their research seeks to understand how these therapies work, how they may interact with conventional medicine, and how they may benefit or harm people's health.
Although some herbs have traditionally been used for centuries as cognitive enhancer, the claims are not always medically reviewed, with little proven evidence that is backed up by science.
The NCCIH, therefore, advises people to speak to their local healthcare providers before taking any herbs or supplements for brain health and seek trustworthy sources of information to help make an informed decision about their health and wellbeing.
The NCCIH continues to support further research in this field and inform healthcare providers and consumers in the general public about the potential benefits, significant effects, and risks associated with using herbs and supplements for brain health.
There are various brain supplements available on the market. Some of the most popular ones include:
Cistanche Tubulosa is commonly included in brain supplements due to its potential cognitive-enhancing qualities. This is one of the natural nootropics that is believed to help improve memory and human cognition by promoting healthy blood flow to the brain and elevating certain neurotransmitter levels. Morilite is a brain supplement that contains Cistanche Tubulosa and other natural ingredients that are thought to boost brain function and enhance mental clarity.
Ginkgo Biloba has been used as a herb in orthodox Chinese medical practices for centuries. This plant is known for increasing blood circulation to the brain and enhancing cognitive performance and memory retention.
Ginkgo Biloba comprises antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients like flavonoids and terpenoids.
Bacopa Monnieri is a herb known for its aptitude to enhance cognitive and motor function and memory.
Bacosides are compounds in Bacopa Monnieri extract, which is thought to improve communication among neurons in the brain and facilitate well-term memory formation.
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and certain supplements, is a well-known stimulant for enhancing concentration, alertness, and cognitive capabilities. It obstructs adenosine neurotransmitters in the brain, which can induce drowsiness and exhaustion. This can lead to better cognitive function and lessened weariness.
L-Theanine, an amino acid in tea leaves, is recognized for its potential to enhance concentration levels and alleviate tension.
It achieves this by boosting the output of critical neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, vital in regulating mood.
Additionally, L-Theanine has been found to encourage alpha waves in the brain, prompting feelings of calmness and sharpening mental acuity.
Creatine is present in meat and fish and is known for its potential to enhance memory and cognitive capability in healthy adults.
Through energising the brain, creatine may improve working memory and mental performance in healthy adults. It also boosts the generation of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and acetylcholine, that play a role in cognitive function.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids are a form of fat present in fish, nuts, and seeds. They are known for their anti-inflammatory attributes and potential to enhance brain operation.
Their functioning lies in scaling down inflammation in the brain, which may foster cognitive ability and diminish the chances of afflictions like Alzheimer's disease.
For centuries, Ashwagandha has been utilised in Ayurvedic medicine. It is famous for its effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety.
Ashwagandha operates by diminishing cortisol, the stress hormone levels, and boosting the generation of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin, crucial in managing mood.
To sum up, supplements for the brain can provide various advantages for healthy people wanting to enhance their cognitive ability, retention, and attentiveness.
Nevertheless, opting for a safe and productive supplement is crucial since not all supplements for cognitive functions are similar.
Seek products that have undergone clinical studies and are proven to be effective, and select reputable manufacturers that employ top-notch ingredients.
It's also crucial to follow the recommended dosage carefully and consult a healthcare professional before taking a brain supplement, especially if you're taking medication or have any underlying health conditions.
They can guide you on whether a brain supplement is right for you and how it may interact with your ongoing prescription drug.
Brain supplements can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle but should not be relied on as the sole solution to cognitive effects. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and quality sleep are essential to a healthy brain and overall well-being. Individuals can support their cognitive function and overall brain health by taking a holistic approach and incorporating brain supplements into a healthy lifestyle.
Brain health supplements and nootropics are natural aids that can positively impact brain function in young and older adults. Many dietary supplements can provide various health benefits, such as preventing cognitive decline, enhancing cognitive function, improving alertness, upgrading creativity, stimulating motivation, and boosting memory.
Nootropics, brain health, and memory supplements can also help with memory loss by reducing the slow cognitive decline of old age. Even a mild cognitive impairment can make life difficult and cause permanent memory loss and deterioration of brain health.
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The condition can result from specific diseases and health conditions, like Alzheimer's disease and dementia, or a combination of an unhealthy lifestyle and poor dietary choices.
With that in mind, let's discuss how brain health supplements and a healthy diet can support brain health and help healthy adults tap into various beneficial effects, ranging from weight loss and cognitive enhancement to improved mental performance.
According to data studies about brain supplements, dietary supplements are a healthier alternative to prescription drugs. They can help optimize the levels of micronutrients in the body linked to support brain health, enhance cognitive function, prevent memory loss, and improve memory.
Although there's insufficient evidence that supplements will help you more than a prescription drug, brain health supplements may help prevent various medical conditions, control premature aging, and reduce age-related changes in your body.
A natural dietary supplement can be a valuable tool in fighting age-related conditions by providing micronutrient re-synthesis. However, we recommend caution when taking brain health supplements or other dietary supplements, as each comes with risks and benefits.
Taking over-the-counter supplements can expose you to unforeseen risks. You should always research clinical trials and supplement manufacturers thoroughly and consult your physician before taking any dietary supplements.
Now, let's delve deeper into the best brain health dietary supplements that can help with cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease, chronic inflammation, thinking skills, and lower risk of other medical conditions.
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Some dietary supplements can help enhance brain health and improve the quality of your life. However, your overall health and mental condition determine the level of brain health you can hope for in old age. In other words, you don't need a dietary supplement to stay sharp, and that's where eating a proper diet comes into the picture.
Eating a healthy diet with lots of whole grains, lean meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, and berries is an excellent way to ensure your brain gets everything it needs to stay healthy and keep you in perfect shape.
It can help improve your overall health, including cognitive functioning. Such a mind diet is what experts consider a gold standard in maintaining mental health. However, the mind diet is just one side of the coin, and leading a physically active lifestyle is the other.
There are three prime factors for ensuring the top body and mental health throughout the lifetime:
Healthy diet
Physical activity
Getting adequate sleep
Combined, these three factors will keep your body and mind in excellent shape for as long as possible. However, sometimes, this isn't enough to reduce age-related mental problems, and that's where supplements can help.
Here are some of the best health supplements to boost your brain health and function.
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Hailing from Asia, ginkgo and ginseng are common Asian supplements that show incredible potency for boosting brain power and function. As studies suggest, both supplements can help enhance thinking skills and mental clarity and increase energy levels while giving your brain a good boost to keep it healthy.
Ginseng can have a beneficial effect on your nervous system and has shown extraordinary efficacy in memory improvement. Many experts recommend it to prevent the mental decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.
However, scientists need more evidence to prove that ginseng can improve your brain health and protect your mental functions.
Caffeine is a natural stimulant in foods like dark chocolate, coffee, and green/black tea. Although it comes in supplement forms like powder and pills, you should tread carefully when handling these.
Instead, we recommend opting for natural sources to get your daily dose of this stimulant. Caffeine beneficially affects your central nervous system and brain, making you more focused, sharper, alert, and less tired.
Many studies have suggested that caffeine can improve general brain health and function, reaction times, and memory and make a person feel more energized. However, pay attention to the amount of caffeine you consume daily, as too much can cause sleeping issues, nausea, and anxiety.
B Vitamins like B1, B2, B3, B6, B9 (folic acid), and B12 play a vital role in maintaining your brain health and function. The vitamin B complex may help prevent cognitive decline and mental deterioration caused by dementia and Alzheimer's disease by enhancing the production of neurotransmitters.
Vitamin B 9 (folic acid) is vital to reducing congenital anomalies in the brain. These chemicals are critical to maintaining proper brain function. They are in charge of transporting messages between neurons in the body and the brain.
While you can find these supplements as pills, you can get sufficient B vitamins by eating a well-rounded diet rich in foods like beans (legumes), vegetables, leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains.
Since B12 is only present in animal products, vegans and older adults should consider taking dietary supplements rich in B12. B vitamins are essential to keeping your brain healthy.
Foods rich in B vitamins, such as legumes, provide additional benefits, including lowered blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol. Vitamin B and folic acid are important nutrients that support healthy cell growth and red blood cell formation and are vital during early pregnancy.
Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most crucial brain supplements in the world. Omega-3 is present primarily in fish oil and plays a vital role in brain development, function, and health.
Taking a fish oil supplement could improve brain health and function in people with thinking and memory problems, mainly Alzheimer's disease and similar cognitive impairments.
There are two types of omega-3 that come from fish oil – eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Both acids are present in cell membranes and can provide positive anti-inflammatory effects to deal with chronic inflammation within the body. The body can also turn alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into EPA and DHA.
ALA is present in vegetable oils such as canola and soybean and food sources such as soybeans, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Adults should take omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins as part of a healthy diet.
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that supports the health of your skin, brain, and blood. It enhances reproduction and helps with vision. Since it's rich in antioxidant properties, it can protect your body and brain from free radicals, which can cause inflammation in brain cells and other tissues. The human brain is susceptible to oxidative stress and can suffer severe trauma caused by free radicals.
Although there's not enough evidence to support the claim that Vitamin E can help treat dementia, Vitamin E supplements could help reduce the impact of Alzheimer's disease. You can obtain vitamin E from natural sources, such as vegetables, seeds, and nuts.
L-theanine may provide myriad health benefits, such as better sleep quality, improved cognitive function, enhanced mental clarity, and sharper focus. This compound naturally occurs in black and green tea and can positively affect physical and psychological well-being.
However, the most important medicinal property of L-theanine is its anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, it can affect dopamine and serotonin – essential chemicals in control of cortisol, emotion, sleep, and mood.
Some proven benefits of L-theanine include improved mental focus, better sleep, relaxation, increased cognitive performance, weight loss, and reduced blood pressure. It can also give the immune system a proper boost to help it fight off infection and illness.
Aside from dietary supplements, you should try traditional Chinese medicine. Morilite, Cistanche Tubulosa, and Ginkgo Biloba are the most prominent options among Chinese medicinal herbs.
Ginkgo Biloba is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It's one of the best-selling herbal supplements worldwide and has the potential to keep your cognition and memory sharp. Ginkgo contains over 40 components, such as terpenoids and flavonoids.
Both have extraordinary medicinal properties:
Flavonoids are natural antioxidants that can protect blood vessels, heart muscles, and nerves;
Terpenoids are essential for reducing platelets' stickiness and dilating blood vessels, and these properties allow them to improve blood flow.
The most common medicinal uses for ginkgo include:
Fighting Alzheimer's disease and dementia;
Improving memory, learning, and thinking;
Dealing with anxiety and depression;
Boosting energy levels.
Ginkgo supplements include dried leaves for teas, liquid extracts, tablets, capsules, and standardized extracts. These supplements may help improve your thinking skills and short-term memory while reducing age-related cognitive decline.
Cistanche tubulosa is another popular traditional Chinese herbal medicine that quickly gained popularity worldwide. Primarily used to treat libido and urinary problems, this herbal medicine could assist in treating various health conditions and neurodegenerative diseases.
As a herbal supplement, Cistanche tubulosa can unleash an array of health benefits on you, including improved cognition, stronger immunity, increased energy, improved strength, higher sexual performance and testosterone levels, etc.
Cistanche tubulosa supplements can help increase your cognitive capabilities, memory, and focus. The primary function of Cistanche is to increase the production of vital chemicals in neurotransmitters that promote the normal functioning of the central nervous system.
Compared to Ginkgo, Cistanche isn't only a brain health booster but a natural herbal medicine for the entire body.
Morilite is a unique natural supplement due to being an abundant source of Cistanche tubulosa. It's one of the most effective, affordable, and popular Cistanche-based natural supplements, known for achieving massive sales globally.
Aside from giving you all the medicinal properties of Cistanche, Morilite is incredibly efficient in promoting sharper focus and mental clarity. These properties make it the best solution for enhancing attention, sharpening focus, and improving learning and working capability in both young people and adults.
A recent study has shown that Morilite can help with cognitive decline and age-related neurological problems by providing nutrients to brain cells. Compared to all the supplements mentioned here, Morilite allows you to continue fighting cognitive decline and memory loss without exposing yourself to various side effects.
Here's a reality check:
Morilite vs. Amino Acids – excessive intake of amino acids can lead to increased ammonia production in your body, promoting tumor cell growth. It can also lead to disorders like nausea and diarrhea.
Morilite vs. Omega-3 – taking too many omega-3 supplements could increase blood pressure and sugar levels. Supplements rich in vitamin A could cause dizziness, skin irritation, and nausea.
Morilite vs. Ginkgo – the extract of Ginkgo Biloba can cause skin reactions, headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, and excessive bleeding (women on period).
Morilite vs. Vitamin E – excessive consumption of vitamin E can lead to headache, nausea, intestinal cramps, skin rash, and an increased risk of cancer.
Morilite vs. Caffeine – compared to caffeine, Morilite helps you avoid tremors, jitters, and heart palpitations.
Morilite vs. Ginseng – excessive consumption of Ginseng memory pills can lead to digestive problems, headaches, insomnia, and hypertension.
Dealing with age-related cognitive decline and memory loss is something that every person experiences sooner or later. Whether it's old age, medical illness, or a poor lifestyle choice, cognitive impairment can significantly lower the quality of your life and make it difficult to maintain social interaction with your friends and family.
Thankfully, you can reverse the situation and take things into your own hands. You need to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and take brain health supplements to help maintain healthy brain function without struggling with side effects.
Resources:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/features/nootropics-smart-drugs-overview
Enjoy a Full Night’s Sleep for Emotional and Brain Health
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Sleep quality and quantity affect memory formation or consolidation, which entails moving relevant events from short-term to long-term. Moreover, memory consolidation links related memories, creating a comprehensive bigger picture or better event recollection.
One of many scientific references posits that memory consolidation occurs during non-rapid-eye movement (NREM) sleep, which is the deepest stage of sleep. Therefore, a good night's sleep is necessary to improve sleep and prevent memory problems.
Moreover, one study highlights inadequate sleep as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, alongside metabolic problems like high blood pressure. Therefore, given the role sleep plays in memory, consider creating a sleep schedule to help you get enough sleep and improve your memory.
Your sleep schedule could include limiting screen time before bedtime because the blue light emitted from screens impedes melatonin (primary sleep hormone) formation. Also, you can include mindfulness meditation sessions for lowering stress since stress hormones like cortisol prevent you from getting enough sleep.
Practice Intentional Learning
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As stated earlier, cognitive decline, like memory loss, is inextricable. Moreover, the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, a memory model highlighting the decrease in the brain’s memory retention over time, shows that memories shift from 100% to 60% within the first few days of learning.
Research shows that while memory loss slows down at 60%, a gradual loss ensues from the 60% mark. However, like exercising regularly keeps your body in shape, regular brain exercise prevents memory decline after learning.
According to one study, processing information in your memory takes eight seconds of intense focus. Therefore, be intentional about challenging your brain to learn something new.
Consider using memory aides like mnemonic devices and tests to engage your memory and improve other cognitive abilities. Mnemonic devices allow you to use your own words, including self-composed songs and acronyms, to familiarize new concepts and improve memory.
Get Moving
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/9D_rUDe7xvA
Besides mental stimulation, physical exercise is also good for your memory. One research study shows that acute and chronic exercises improve memory function. The study is one of many scientific references that recommend an exercise design featuring both exercise types as a potential intervention for improving how the memory processes different kinds of information.
So, How exactly does exercise improve memory? Researchers found various direct and indirect factors linking exercise to improved memory function.
First, physical exercise keeps the blood pumping, increasing blood flow to the brain. During one study among subjects performing aerobic exercise, researchers found that the movement increased blood flow to the brain. Moreover, a subsequent study showed that a 35% increase in blood flow to the brain improved various cognitive functions, including verbal memory. Moreover, a 92% increase in the brain's oxygen concentration improves overall memory functions in young and older populations.
Researchers found the second direct link between physical exercise and memory enhancement is that exercise triggers neuroplastic alterations. Neuroplastic alterations (neuroplasticity) entail the formation of neuron networks that fire together to create electrochemical or neural pathways that enhance various brain activities. One study established that aerobic exercise caused neuroplastic alterations for molecular targets that mediate learning and memory.
Third, exercise improves sleep quality and quantity, and as highlighted above, sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation to boost memory performance. Moreover, sleep is also essential for a good mood, and one study associates a positive mood with better memory retention, improving short-term memory. Therefore, aerobic exercise indirectly enhances memory and prevents cognitive decline by improving sleep quality and quantity.
So, consider adding aerobic exercise or other fitness routines to your daily schedule. Such activities keep the blood pumping and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is also a risk factor for cognitive decline.
Manage Health Conditions That May Cause Cognitive Decline or Memory Loss
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and dementia are the primary causes of long-term memory decline associated with the ageing process. However, while such conditions are irreversible, proper management helps delay cognitive decline.
According to one expert review, memory training and external memory aids can slow disease progression in neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, the review recommends simple non-medical interventions, including multisensory therapies like aromatherapy, music, dance, and mindful meditation can help slow disease progression.
However, preventative therapies are more important in preventing memory decline. As stated, metabolic lifestyle diseases like insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and blood pressure are risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases and mild cognitive impairment. Therefore, consider lifestyle adjustments like a balanced diet and regular exercise to improve memory and reduce the risk of overall cognitive decline.
Add Neuroprotective Foods to Your Diet
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/UhrHTmVBzzE
A balanced diet benefits the brain's cognitive functions, including memory, because a healthy body equals a healthy mind. However, some foods have better memory-enhancing functions than others. For example, antioxidant foods like broccoli, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, and nuts preserve memory by preventing oxidative stress-induced memory impairment.
One review recommends pomegranate, honey, dates, black seeds, figs, and oily fish as functional foods that enhance memories. The foods highlighted above have phytochemicals, including phenols, polyphenols, alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, with antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties for cognitive enhancement.
Exercise Brain Muscles
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/oc_XTqWezp4
Besides physical exercises, mental exercises that strengthen your brain muscles are essential for optimal memory function because they boost memory. Brain exercises are crucial for neuroplasticity, helping to form new pathways that promote learning. Learning is a vital memory component because it facilitates memory function's encoding and retrieval processes.
As stated above, board and card games exercise brain muscles by facilitating focus and concentration, strengthening existing neural pathways. However, acquiring new skills is also vital for memory encoding because it promotes the formation of new pathways that improve your memory.
Neuroplasticity exercises that enhance your memory can be as simple as learning new vocabulary or a new craft like gardening or knitting.
Therefore, consider learning a new skill to improve your memory.
Nurture an Active Social Life
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/l_ExpFwwOEg
Humans are social beings, and improved memory function is among the many health benefits of positive social interactions. One study review established that lonely individuals are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's than people in active social circles. Moreover, it revealed that participating in social activities delayed Alzheimer’s onset.
A robust support system improves your memory and is essential for your well-being. One report shows that spending at least ten minutes talking to others improves memory and memory test scores.
Keep Stress at Bay
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As earlier stated, cortisol, the primary stress hormone, impedes optimum brain function. Moreover, one study established a link between elevated stress levels and reduced brain grey matter volume and density. Therefore, Consider Adding stress management techniques like mindfulness meditation to your daily routine.
Consider Supplementation with Neuroprotective Herbal Remedies
Nature abounds with herbal remedies possessing various therapeutic benefits, including neuroprotection. Neuroprotective elements prevent neural cell degradation that causes cognitive decline, including memory loss.
Morilite, a plant extract from the cistanche tubusola plant, is one such neuroprotective herbal remedy. Cistanche tubusola is a herb used in Chinese medicine, and one study associates it with anti-depressant properties and cognitive enhancement. Therefore, Morilite is a clinically tested, GMO-free supplement that avails cistanche tubusola in a palatable form.
Sharpening your memory is possible and simpler than it sounds. All you need to do is add the lifestyle adjustments recommended above to your daily routine and practice consistency to improve memory and overall cognitive function.
https://bokcenter.harvard.edu/how-memory-works
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0925443908001828
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4998331/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6828934/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/11/191126140413.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3734374/
https://www.sleepstation.org.uk/articles/health/alzheimers-and-sleep/
https://www.psychestudy.com/cognitive/memory/ebbinghaus-forgetting-curve
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/how-to-improve-your-memory.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4337321/
https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/sites/default/files/contentgroups/sasp/poster_gallery/poster97.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5764000/
https://news.umich.edu/ten-minutes-of-talking-has-a-mental-payoff/
Memory is essential to brain function, with working memory supporting problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills. On the other hand, episodic memory facilitates conscious, long-term recollection of experiences.
Unfortunately, one study featuring memory tests established that cognitive decline occurs, causing gradual memory loss. Moreover, the ageing process is among the risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease that cause a decline in memory performance and other cognitive abilities.
Adopt a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is a gateway to a healthy body. Unhealthy foods rich in sugars, starch, unsaturated fats, and sodium are bad for your health, causing metabolic medical conditions like insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease.
One literature review featuring peer-reviewed studies established a link between diet-induced metabolic disturbances and disruption in the modulation of brain homeostasis. Brain homeostasis is the process via which the brain communicates with the body, maintaining a healthy balance.
Moreover, a group of researchers in one study examined brain grey matter alterations among 64 pre-diabetic participants and a control group. They monitored the participants' carbohydrate, protein, fat, and calorie intake.
At the end of the study, the researchers found that the pre-diabetic participants had lower brain grey matter volume than those with average health biomarkers. The brain's grey matter has a large volume of brain cells called neurons that process information, facilitate memory function, and regulate emotions.
Therefore, a lower brain grey matter volume is among the risk factors for cognitive decline and long-term memory loss. Moreover, unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which accelerates age-related memory loss, an unhealthy diet impacts the emotional state and brain in the younger population.
However, you can improve memory by utilizing the health benefits of a balanced diet. A healthy diet rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin K, flavonoids, and folate helps increase grey matter volume and boost memory.
One report recommends leafy vegetables like kale and broccoli, nuts, berries, and fatty fish to increase blood flow to the brain cells and increase grey matter volume. Moreover, you can consult your doctor about dietary supplements like fish oil to improve your memory.
Laugh More
Laughter is the best medicine for various conditions, including memory decline. One expert review on laughter and memory research shows a connection between emotional and cognitive health because laughing improves how you recall information by lowering stress levels.
According to the expert, elevated stress hormone (cortisol) levels in the hippocampal brain section damage the neurons responsible for working memory, causing memory issues in young and older adults. However, laughter helps you get past mental fatigue resulting from emotional responses to stress.
Therefore, consider practising laughter yoga to enhance memory, among other cognitive benefits. Laughter yoga combines breathing exercises and voluntary laughter to improve memory and enhance cognitive functions.
Enrich Your Brain Health with Board and Card Games
Board games like Sodoku, crossword puzzles, chess, and scrabble are great brain exercise forms, helping short-term/ working memory and long-term/ episodic memory function. One research shows that such memory games stimulate the brain cells in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. The hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex are the sections of the brain involved in memory formation and complex thought.
Besides being fun, memory games like board and card games reinforce neural connections between brain cells. Second, such games stimulate dopamine production.
One study shows a correlation between dopamine and episodic memory persistence, improving memory and slowing down age-related memory loss. Therefore, enjoy board games as a mental exercise to get the blood pumping through your neurons to prevent brain problems for long-term and short-term memory.
Enjoy a Full Night’s Sleep for Emotional and Brain Health
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/8yKPxJ9d-pU
Sleep quality and quantity affect memory formation or consolidation, which entails moving relevant events from short-term to long-term. Moreover, memory consolidation links related memories, creating a comprehensive bigger picture or better event recollection.
One of many scientific references posits that memory consolidation occurs during non-rapid-eye movement (NREM) sleep, which is the deepest stage of sleep. Therefore, a good night's sleep is necessary to improve sleep and prevent memory problems.
Moreover, one study highlights inadequate sleep as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, alongside metabolic problems like high blood pressure. Therefore, given the role sleep plays in memory, consider creating a sleep schedule to help you get enough sleep and improve your memory.
Your sleep schedule could include limiting screen time before bedtime because the blue light emitted from screens impedes melatonin (primary sleep hormone) formation. Also, you can include mindfulness meditation sessions for lowering stress since stress hormones like cortisol prevent you from getting enough sleep.
Practice Intentional Learning
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/6RTM8EsD1T8
As stated earlier, cognitive decline, like memory loss, is inextricable. Moreover, the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, a memory model highlighting the decrease in the brain’s memory retention over time, shows that memories shift from 100% to 60% within the first few days of learning.
Research shows that while memory loss slows down at 60%, a gradual loss ensues from the 60% mark. However, like exercising regularly keeps your body in shape, regular brain exercise prevents memory decline after learning.
According to one study, processing information in your memory takes eight seconds of intense focus. Therefore, be intentional about challenging your brain to learn something new.
Consider using memory aides like mnemonic devices and tests to engage your memory and improve other cognitive abilities. Mnemonic devices allow you to use your own words, including self-composed songs and acronyms, to familiarize new concepts and improve memory.
Get Moving
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/9D_rUDe7xvA
Besides mental stimulation, physical exercise is also good for your memory. One research study shows that acute and chronic exercises improve memory function. The study is one of many scientific references that recommend an exercise design featuring both exercise types as a potential intervention for improving how the memory processes different kinds of information.
So, How exactly does exercise improve memory? Researchers found various direct and indirect factors linking exercise to improved memory function.
First, physical exercise keeps the blood pumping, increasing blood flow to the brain. During one study among subjects performing aerobic exercise, researchers found that the movement increased blood flow to the brain. Moreover, a subsequent study showed that a 35% increase in blood flow to the brain improved various cognitive functions, including verbal memory. Moreover, a 92% increase in the brain's oxygen concentration improves overall memory functions in young and older populations.
Researchers found the second direct link between physical exercise and memory enhancement is that exercise triggers neuroplastic alterations. Neuroplastic alterations (neuroplasticity) entail the formation of neuron networks that fire together to create electrochemical or neural pathways that enhance various brain activities. One study established that aerobic exercise caused neuroplastic alterations for molecular targets that mediate learning and memory.
Third, exercise improves sleep quality and quantity, and as highlighted above, sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation to boost memory performance. Moreover, sleep is also essential for a good mood, and one study associates a positive mood with better memory retention, improving short-term memory. Therefore, aerobic exercise indirectly enhances memory and prevents cognitive decline by improving sleep quality and quantity.
So, consider adding aerobic exercise or other fitness routines to your daily schedule. Such activities keep the blood pumping and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is also a risk factor for cognitive decline.
Manage Health Conditions That May Cause Cognitive Decline or Memory Loss
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and dementia are the primary causes of long-term memory decline associated with the ageing process. However, while such conditions are irreversible, proper management helps delay cognitive decline.
According to one expert review, memory training and external memory aids can slow disease progression in neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, the review recommends simple non-medical interventions, including multisensory therapies like aromatherapy, music, dance, and mindful meditation can help slow disease progression.
However, preventative therapies are more important in preventing memory decline. As stated, metabolic lifestyle diseases like insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and blood pressure are risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases and mild cognitive impairment. Therefore, consider lifestyle adjustments like a balanced diet and regular exercise to improve memory and reduce the risk of overall cognitive decline.
Add Neuroprotective Foods to Your Diet
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/UhrHTmVBzzE
A balanced diet benefits the brain's cognitive functions, including memory, because a healthy body equals a healthy mind. However, some foods have better memory-enhancing functions than others. For example, antioxidant foods like broccoli, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, and nuts preserve memory by preventing oxidative stress-induced memory impairment.
One review recommends pomegranate, honey, dates, black seeds, figs, and oily fish as functional foods that enhance memories. The foods highlighted above have phytochemicals, including phenols, polyphenols, alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, with antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties for cognitive enhancement.
Exercise Brain Muscles
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/oc_XTqWezp4
Besides physical exercises, mental exercises that strengthen your brain muscles are essential for optimal memory function because they boost memory. Brain exercises are crucial for neuroplasticity, helping to form new pathways that promote learning. Learning is a vital memory component because it facilitates memory function's encoding and retrieval processes.
As stated above, board and card games exercise brain muscles by facilitating focus and concentration, strengthening existing neural pathways. However, acquiring new skills is also vital for memory encoding because it promotes the formation of new pathways that improve your memory.
Neuroplasticity exercises that enhance your memory can be as simple as learning new vocabulary or a new craft like gardening or knitting.
Therefore, consider learning a new skill to improve your memory.
Nurture an Active Social Life
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/l_ExpFwwOEg
Humans are social beings, and improved memory function is among the many health benefits of positive social interactions. One study review established that lonely individuals are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's than people in active social circles. Moreover, it revealed that participating in social activities delayed Alzheimer’s onset.
A robust support system improves your memory and is essential for your well-being. One report shows that spending at least ten minutes talking to others improves memory and memory test scores.
Keep Stress at Bay
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/t1NEMSm1rgI
As earlier stated, cortisol, the primary stress hormone, impedes optimum brain function. Moreover, one study established a link between elevated stress levels and reduced brain grey matter volume and density. Therefore, Consider Adding stress management techniques like mindfulness meditation to your daily routine.
Consider Supplementation with Neuroprotective Herbal Remedies
Nature abounds with herbal remedies possessing various therapeutic benefits, including neuroprotection. Neuroprotective elements prevent neural cell degradation that causes cognitive decline, including memory loss.
Morilite, a plant extract from the cistanche tubusola plant, is one such neuroprotective herbal remedy. Cistanche tubusola is a herb used in Chinese medicine, and one study associates it with anti-depressant properties and cognitive enhancement. Therefore, Morilite is a clinically tested, GMO-free supplement that avails cistanche tubusola in a palatable form.
Sharpening your memory is possible and simpler than it sounds. All you need to do is add the lifestyle adjustments recommended above to your daily routine and practice consistency to improve memory and overall cognitive function.
https://bokcenter.harvard.edu/how-memory-works
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0925443908001828
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4998331/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6828934/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/11/191126140413.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3734374/
https://www.sleepstation.org.uk/articles/health/alzheimers-and-sleep/
https://www.psychestudy.com/cognitive/memory/ebbinghaus-forgetting-curve
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/how-to-improve-your-memory.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4337321/
https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/sites/default/files/contentgroups/sasp/poster_gallery/poster97.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5764000/
https://news.umich.edu/ten-minutes-of-talking-has-a-mental-payoff/
Several herbal remedies exist for conditions like fever, bacterial infections, and erectile dysfunction. The herbs Tongkat Ali and Cistanche tubulosa are examples of these.
Tongkat Ali, an old Asian remedy, has been thought of as the best way to boost a man's libido for a long time. People who believe in traditional medicine also use this plant to treat a wide range of other illnesses and symptoms. Cistanche tubulosa is less well-known because it has not received the same publicity as its more famous cousin, Tongkat Ali.
While both herbs have similar healing properties, they differ as each has unique advantages. Read on as we explain Tongkat Ali and Cistanche Tubulosa, how they work, and most importantly, which is better.
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma Longifolia, is a small tree or shrub found naturally only in Southeast Asia. The plant is possibly native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. But it is possible to find this plant in certain parts of Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and many other regions.
Due to its aphrodisiacal properties, Tongkat Ali is also known as "Ali's walking stick." Some say that the plant's long, twisted roots are the "stick" in question because they are said to be good for your health. People often call Tongkat Ali Malaysian ginseng, Long Jack, or Ali's Umbrella.
As it turns out, three other plant species are also known as "Tongkat Ali." Their scientific names are Polyalthia bullata, Entomophthora apiculata, and Goniothalamus.
Depending on the circumstances, Tongkat Ali may be helpful for your health. The following sections are examples of some of these circumstances:
Studies suggest that Tongkat Ali may be able to make men more fertile and healthy. A 2016 article looked at the effects seen in animals and people and found them promising, claiming that they may have aphrodisiac properties. Tongkat Ali may be causing an increase in testosterone and a surge in dopamine. The studies showed:
Improved sperm quality, quantity, viability, and mobility
Raised levels of the male hormone testosterone
Improved erections and sex ability
Athletes may occasionally use ergogenic aids to improve their performance. One 2016 review suggests that Tongkat Ali has the potential to be used as an ergogenic aid because of its ability to reduce stress and increase testosterone levels.
Researchers concluded that they could control E. coli with high doses and long-term supplementation. Speaking of which, there may be an advantage to using e. Longifolia regarding stamina and endurance.
In 2014, a reliable source conducted a pilot study on physically active people aged 57 to 72. Those who took E supplements for 12 weeks—a 5-week course of Tongkat Ali extract—saw improvements in their muscle strength and testosterone levels.
A 2018 report by a trusted source analyzed the available data in rats with osteoporosis using Tongkat Ali. Ultimately, Tongkat Ali appeared not as effective as other common Malaysian herbs. The review, on the other hand, suggests that you can use it in the future to reduce the loss of bone mass.
A study conducted measured the level of stress hormone in 63 people taking Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo for four weeks in a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
People who took the extract reported significantly less anger, tension, and confusion than those who did not. The levels of testosterone rose while those of the stress hormone cortisol fell. They concluded that Tongkat Ali has the potential to treat modern-day stress, insomnia, and exercise.
The combination of Tongkat Ali and multivitamins in healthy people made them feel stronger and happier overall. There was also a drop in participants' blood glucose levels, which may have helped them feel better.
Tongkat Ali has anti-cancer properties. These compounds are toxic to lung and cervical cancer cells. A review in 2018 found that Tongkat Ali contained 16 different active elements. Isolates of e. Longifolia derived from various plant parts exhibited promising anti-cancer properties.
According to another laboratory study, quassinoids from E. coli have anti-cancer properties. E. Longifolia kills human prostate cancer cells. However, the Endocrine Society discourages testosterone treatment in prostate cancer, so the herb should not be used in this context.
Some reputable studies suggest that among the bacteria that e. Longifolia is effective against are E. coli and Salmonella typhi.
Also, Tongkat Ali extracts from the plant have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in vitro.
There are no adverse effects of note in the limited human studies of Tongkat Ali. We found a daily dose of 300 mg of Tongkat Ali extracts similarly risk-free to a placebo. Although research has not been conducted on this, other studies have found that adults can safely consume up to 1.2 grams of Tongkat Ali extract daily. Furthermore, the supplement's long-term safety has not been studied, so it is currently unknown.
Furthermore, a study of 100 Malaysian Tongkat Ali supplements found that 26% contained mercury levels above the safety threshold. Abnormal mood states, memory loss, and impaired motor skills are all symptoms of mercury poisoning, which can occur from ingesting too much of the metal.
Additionally, there has been no study of Tongkat Ali's effects on children or pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore, whether the treatment poses any risks to these groups is questionable.
There are 22 known species of the perennial herb genus Cistanche. The warm deserts of northwest China, Mongolia, Iran, and India are where these plants come from. Cistache is a parasitic herb that attaches itself to plants' roots that fix sand to steal water and nutrients from those plants. It doesn't have chlorophyll and doesn't make its food, meaning it can steal water and nutrients from other plants.
Cistanche can only grow to its full potential in very harsh places, like those with an arid climate, poor soil, a lot of sunlight, significant temperature differences, and less than 250mm of rain per year. Cistanche is a wild species that could go extinct because of how hard it is to grow and how often it is used in Rou Cong-Rong, which is traditional Chinese medicine.
Cistanche is one of the most widely used tonics in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is also referred to as the "Ginseng of the Deserts" due to its wide range of positive effects on one's health. Cistanche is becoming an increasingly popular herbal remedy all over the world, particularly in the treatment of urinary problems, to increase one's testosterone levels, and to assist in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
Cistanche tubulosa is a popular herbal supplement that has improved several health markers, such as testosterone levels, sexual performance, strength, energy, immunity, cognition, impotence, and regular bowel movements.
The lowest effective dose of 100 mg of Echinacoside is a natural phenylethanoid glycoside with many active ingredients like polysaccharides, glycosides, alkamides, and flavonoids. One of the bioactive compounds in Cistanche Tubulosa is thought to stimulate growth hormone secretion by activating the Ghrelin receptor.
The benefits mentioned below of Cistanche tubulosa are enhanced by the presence of a bioactive compound called acetonide, which contributes significantly to Cistanche Tubulosa's health benefits and is present in Cistanche in a 20-milligram dose.
If you want to increase your testosterone without taking drugs, you might consider trying Cistanche tubulosa. This technique has been used in Asia since the 10th century to achieve the same result. The other benefits listed below stem primarily from increased (free) testosterone in studies and many anecdotal reports, and Cistanche tubulosa promotes normal testosterone levels in the body.
The positive effects of Cistanche Tubulosa on testosterone can help you get stronger faster. In the long run, it can help your body look better by promoting muscle growth and reducing fat deposits. Strength gains and physique improvements are both aided by Cistanche tubulosa.
Cistanche tubulosa may help you keep your energy up and keep going strong if you take it daily. Taking the supplement might make you feel more energized and driven to achieve your goals.
Cistanche tubulosa has been shown to improve the mood of its users. This is wonderful, as a general improvement in one's health makes for better days. Progress is the point of living, and better days mean more progress.
Memory and other mental processes can be helped by Cistanche Tubulosa, which is suitable for cognitive function. Some people, like students, workers, or the elderly, may benefit more than others. I think cognitive skills are essential because I like to learn new things quickly and enjoy learning new things daily.
It also improves concentration and recall, adding to the increasing body of evidence that the benefits of Cistanche affect everything. Focus and memory aid in Cistanche is primarily provided by the exact mechanisms discussed in the preceding section on emotional health. Cistanche aids in neural communication by increasing the production of neurotransmitters which is critical for maintaining a functional nervous system.
According to the study, regular Cistanche users had significantly better and faster recall than control groups. Benefits from Cistanche tubulosa were stable throughout testing, without the jarring spikes and dips taxing the body. Proof of Cistanche's efficacy and practicality is that its users were able to stop taking the drug abruptly.
There shouldn't be any adverse reactions to herbal supplements like Cistanche tubulosa.
Scientists say it is safe for people to eat, especially if bought from a reputable store.
Taking a large dose, however, can cause unpleasant side effects, such as stomach pain. If you take Cistanche precisely as prescribed, you shouldn't have any problems.
Following the dosage instructions on a high-quality Cistanche Tubulosa supplement has been shown in recent studies to be safe for human consumption.
However, while Tongkat Ali shows promise as a herbal remedy for several conditions, as we have seen, the evidence for its safety and efficacy is still limited.
There is evidence that taking Cistanche Tubulosa supplements can increase levels of free testosterone in the body. It has received a lot of praise as an effective natural testosterone booster,
Tongkat Ali has been shown to improve sperm quality and sperm count in men. There will be more semen produced, more sperm produced, more sperm that survive, and more sperm that can move around. The drug's users are more likely to have increased testosterone production, improved erectile function, and enhanced sexual performance.
Cistanche tubulosa appears safe for healthy adults, with no adverse effects observed or reported. Stomach pain may occur if you take too much, which is not recommended. Keep to the suggested serving size and only purchase premium supplements from reputable manufacturers.
Tongkat Ali, however, may lower blood sugar levels. In high enough doses, it may also trigger severe insomnia. Other common adverse reactions include insomnia, irritability, and restlessness.
Depending on the supplements you're taking and the effects you want to see, a Cistanche Tubulosa extract dose of 100 mg to 500 mg may be ideal. A high-quality Cistanche supplement should be taken in a single daily dose of one 200mg tablet.
Tongkat Ali is most effective when taken in doses of 25 milligrams (mg) every two to three days, 200 milligrams (mg) once daily, or 400 milligrams (mg) every other day.
Cistanche tubulosa is known to increase testosterone levels, improve sexual performance, increase strength and energy, enhance cognition (memory), and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, it may help with bowel regularity.
Tongkat Ali is rumored to be able to treat a variety of medical conditions, including sexual dysfunction, anxiety, intestinal worms, diarrhea, aging, lumbago, indigestion, leukemia, aches and pains, itching, dysentery, constipation, malaria, exercise recovery, fever, diabetes, cancer, jaundice, high blood pressure, syphilis, and osteoporosis.
We believe Cistanche to be better because you can use it in a wide variety of stacks, which is one of the reasons we adore it so much. Besides, more subtle calming and mood-boosting effects will result from this unique ingredient.
However, for some users, Tongkat Ali can improve energy and libido, restore hormonal balance (testosterone/cortisol levels), and boost weight loss and sports performance. Meanwhile, cistanche tubulosa provides a user with unique gut health effects; the consequences will be more substantial if you mix it with other ingredients, like epicor (food fermentation ingredient), available yeast, or immune.
This should help improve the gut-brain connection even further, which has been shown to have beneficial effects on immune health, mental health, and cognitive performance.
Many experienced users say that the effects of Cistanche tubulosa take much longer to show up than those of Tongkat Ali. On the other hand, Cistanche tubulosa may be a more desirable supplement for a few people to take on a long-term basis. Having said that, if you're under ongoing medication, it is best to consult an expert before consuming them in tandem.
Although natural testosterone boosters are increasingly popular in the health and fitness industry, Cistanche tubulosa is one of the few that work. It benefits the user's overall physique, strength, energy, mood, and cognition while enhancing testosterone levels.
Early results of a few studies suggest that Tongkat Ali can raise low levels of testosterone, reduce anxiety, and improve body composition. However, the effects of Tongkat Ali are not quite as noticeable as those of Cistanche Tubulosa, making Cistanche Tubulosa a better choice for some, especially in the long run. Before taking either Tongkat Ali or Cistanche Tubulosa, be sure to consult your doctor. In the end, introducing new supplements to your diet can lead to unfavorable results. A healthcare provider can suggest their application of use, coupled with doses and ongoing medication hindrances.
So you've finished your treatment and heard a few people talk about their COVID-19 experience. However, you've also heard warnings about its side effects and duration. But now, more than a year later, you're still experiencing "brain fog"—or cognitive impairment-- on some days.
What does this mean for you?
Continue reading to learn about the 'COVID brain,' its duration, how covid causes it, and more.
Brain fog is not a documented medical condition. Instead, it's a phrase used to convey the sensation of having a slow, foggy, or disoriented mind. This condition is observed in about 25% of post-Covid patients.
Some notable symptoms associated with brain fog are as follows:
memory issues
inability to think clearly
lacking focus
migraines
bewilderment
Feeling lost
Slow or sluggish thinking
The majority of people periodically undergo bouts of mental fog. After a restless, sleepless night or when you've been under a lot of stress, you've probably felt mentally drained.
In some cases, what some doctors call "covid brain fog" can endure for several weeks or longer and may include some of these persistent symptoms like lethargy and mental cloudiness.
Long COVID symptoms can last up to four months after infection for people with post-COVID problems. The symptoms can subside or return at times.
Different people may experience post-COVID symptoms in different ways. Somebody with post-COVID illnesses may suffer from health issues due to various sorts and combinations of symptoms occurring multiple times. It usually takes time for patients' symptoms to improve. However, for some individuals, post-COVID problems may persist for months or even years after a COVID-19 illness and occasionally lead to impairment.
Most frequently, those who encounter post-COVID symptoms report:
Fatigue or weariness that affects daily activities
Symptoms that worsen after exerting oneself physically or mentally (sometimes called "post-exertional malaise")
Fever
Respiratory issues or lack of breath
Chest discomfort and cough
Hammering or heart rate increase (also called heart palpitations)
The likely reason for brain fog in COVID-19 patients is still under investigation. There is evidence that both biological and psychological elements could be at play.
It is believed that the novel coronavirus, also known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected person. Through your lips, nose, or eyes, that person's respiratory droplets could go inside of you.
The coronavirus enters your body through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and then travels to your cells. The virus can infiltrate your brain tissue because it is neuro-invasive.
According to trusted research, some COVID-19 patients have side effects such as altered awareness or encephalopathy. Encephalopathy is a generic term used to describe damage to or illness of the brain.
Increased quantities of inflammatory cytokines were identified in the fluid around the brains of individuals weeks after their COVID-19 infection, according to a study from January 2021. Your immune system produces molecules called cytokines that promote inflammation.
Your brain's inflammation impairs neurons' capacity to communicate with one another.
This could be a contributing factor to brain fog.
Additionally, after COVID-19, researchers have discovered microstructural alterations in the hippocampus and other regions of the brain. They think that these modifications could exacerbate cognitive dysfunction.
As was already discussed, inflammation in and around the brain can cause mental fog. There are additional ways, though, that COVID-19 may unintentionally cause brain fog.
Several potential contributing elements include:
inadequate sleep
Solitude
Sadness
Increased stress or anxiety
Diet modifications
Several drugs' adverse effects
reduced physical activity
Let's consider research to understand different brain fog prevalence in those who have experienced COVID-19 and brain fog symptoms.
According to recent investigations, COVID-19 symptoms include a changed mental state in 7.5 to 31% of cases. This estimate, however, may not be relevant to a more significant population because it was based on limited studies.
According to other sources, neurological symptoms may affect up to 69 percent of persons who have experienced severe COVID-19 sickness, which suggests that they may be more common than previously believed.
It's currently unclear why some people have brain fog while others do not. Severe COVID-19 patients appear more likely than those with mild illness to experience neurological symptoms.
Critically ill patients stand a higher risk of experiencing symptoms like delirium, seizures, and inflammation of the cerebral matter and adjacent tissues.
According to the findings of a short study, the brains of COVID-19 patients displayed some of the same biochemical abnormalities as those seen in Alzheimer's disease. This may explain the memory impairments that people who have COVID for a long time face.
Research led by Andrew Marks, MD, of Columbia University in New York City, and colleagues used an autopsy of 10 persons who died from COVID-19 to establish a relationship between the inflammatory response in SARS-CoV-2 infection and pathways generating tau hyperphosphorylation, which is closely correlated with Alzheimer's disease.
According to what the researchers reported in Alzheimer's & Dementia, the findings also pointed to a possible part of leaky ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) in the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
According to these findings, long-term post-COVID brain fog might be a kind of Alzheimer's disease; nevertheless, further research is needed before researchers can come to more conclusive findings.
The fact that they detected anomalies in multiple molecules is the paper's most important contribution since it helps identify the neuroglial dysfunction in these patients on a biochemical level. This is the paper's primary strength. Because no histology was done to look for Alzheimer's-like pathology, it is difficult to extend the results of this study to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
The typical duration of post-COVID brain fog is currently unknown. After recovering from their severe respiratory illness, some patients experience brain fog for several weeks or even months.
Research released in December 2020 shows roughly 28% of individuals continued to experience concentration issues after being hospitalized for COVID-19 for more than 100 days.
In a different study, researchers discovered that, among 60 patients who had recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent exhibited neurological symptoms even three months later. These signs comprised:
mood swings,
exhaustion,
headaches,
distorted vision
At this point, practicing healthy behaviors is the most effective treatment for brain fog brought on by COVID-19. If you've struggled with persistent brain fog, the following suggestions could improve your mental function and health conditions.
Sleep as much as possible - getting enough of the right kind of sleep will help your body rebuild and recover.
Engage in regular physical activity - Increasing the amount of exercise you get, even if it's just 20 minutes of walking daily, can positively impact the amount of blood that flows to your brain and help quickly restore brain health. Not only is this good for your heart and lungs, but it's also a fantastic method to improve your cognitive abilities, so make sure you do it!
Eat well - You should work on improving your diet because eating processed meals, fast food, and sugary sweets and drinks all contribute to an inflammatory condition and prevent healing from occurring. You may benefit from the guidance of a licensed dietitian nutritionist (RDN). In other words, make an effort to eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet to provide your body with the food it requires to get back to being in excellent health.
Stir Clear of tobacco and alcohol - If you want to reduce the inflammation in your brain, you must abstain from using tobacco products and drinking alcohol.
Take brain supplements and Vitamin D - To promote healthy brain and nerve function, take a vitamin D supplement of 1000 or 2000 international units (IU) once daily. In addition, you can incorporate high-grade and trusted memory booster supplements like Morilite Cistanche Tubulosa Brain Supplement into your daily routine.
Exercising the mind and memory - The mind and memory can be strengthened by training just like other muscles in the body, such as the biceps. Participate in activities such as crossword puzzles, card games, Sudoku, or Wordle; read publications such as newspapers, magazines, novels, or technical manuals. Help is available from every possible source.
Researchers are continuing their investigation into the possible benefits of steroids for lowering inflammation in the brain, which may contribute to alterations in cognitive abilities.
Attempting to return to previous activities as much as possible within the first few months after being infected with COVID-19 should be prioritized. Be patient with yourself, and if there is a new physical or cognitive symptom post-COVID-19, gradually resume the exercise or activity at a slower speed over several weeks.
If there is no new symptom, continue with your routine. Keep in mind that the healing process for brain cells can take months, so do your best not to grow upset during this time. If you make the adjustments to your lifestyle mentioned earlier, you may be confident that you are maximizing your chances of healing.
If your cognitive problems are so debilitating that you cannot work in any capacity, or if you notice symptoms for more than six months following COVID-19 infection, talk to your health care provider or a specialist at Newport Neurology about your signs and how they can be treated.
If your psychological problems are interfering with your everyday life or if they haven't improved after two weeks, it's best to contact a doctor.
If you have COVID-19, you must seek medical assistance as soon as possible if you experience any of these accompanying symptoms:
You have trouble breathing.
Experiencing chronic chest pain or increased chest pressure
Heightened heart rate
New mental disorientation
Difficulty staying awake or difficulty waking up with bluish fingernails or lips
Difficulty remaining awake
Trouble waking up
Some patients with long COVID symptoms report cognitive fog after their respiratory symptoms have disappeared. This can last for weeks or months. It is hypothesized that various physiological alterations in the brain and psychological variables may play a role in developing this severe illness.
The question of why some persons acquire neurological symptoms of COVID-19 while others do not is one that researchers are still attempting to answer. Suppose you have had COVID-19 and continue to experience cognitive difficulties that impair your ability to think critically. In that case, you must schedule a follow-up appointment with your primary care physician.
Resources we used to create this article:
https://www.mskcc.org/news/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7273036/
https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(21)00051-9
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7533666/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7889402/
https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(21)00051-9
https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(21)00051-9
https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.12558
https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.12325
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7527190/
Have you ever used brain supplements to enhance mental performance? If yes, you may probably know it’s a booming industry. Brain-boosting supplements are also referred to as memory-enhancing drugs, smart drugs, or Nootropics, and most manufacturers make different claims regarding their extensive benefits.
There are hundreds of products on the market, and they can be confusing to navigate. Please keep reading to understand what brain health supplements are and how they help your brain or work, along with some examples of popular ones that have been proven to work.
Numerous studies, especially on omega-3 fatty acids, mainly include docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha-linoleic aid, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The research around these elements helps manufacturers structure their products, such as the DHA supplements.
However, some studies have shown that DHA supplements did not slow cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Instead, DHA and EPA are suitable for older adults without neurodegenerative conditions.
Research indicates that dietary antioxidants may protect a person from cognitive decline due to aging. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) build up in the brain, causing oxidative stress, which is believed to cause cognitive decline with age. However, antioxidant supplements are known to reverse the buildup of ROS, which slows cognitive decline.
On the other hand, B vitamins are categorized into eight groups, but the core focus for brain supplements is three, mainly vitamins B6, B9, and B12. A deficiency of vital vitamins, including vitamin E, causes adverse health consequences like impaired brain functions. Taking supplements rich in B vitamins provides high benefits that boost brain function.
Cognitive health supplements will sharpen your mind if you desire to become smarter and enhance mental clarity. Here are three categories that have shown recommendable proven results.
This compound contains bioactive elements that increase your brainpower by enhancing the serotonin and dopamine levels in your brain. These substances greatly affect memory consolidation, attention span, focus, and motivation.
Creatine, also known as phosphocreatine, assists in improving energy production in the body with the help of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). You can do this through supplementation with creatine monohydrate powder or capsules containing other forms such as creatine ethyl ester or beta-alanine. The supplement improves blood flow keeping the brain well oxygenated and thus boosting memory.
These may also help support brain function by fighting stress and enhancing neurotransmitter activity, among other things. However, you should always consult your doctor before taking such supplements.
It also protects the brain from the adverse effects of mental fatigue while improving your mental capacity and endurance.
As we grow older, our bodies deteriorate and become vulnerable to health issues. While our minds continually evolve, cognitive problems begin showing. But for people in Malaysia, brain supplement companies such as Beehive2u have advanced their products significantly.
The company presents multifaceted natural products as a remedy and protective measure for age-related mental decline and disorders such as Dementia.
One remarkable product presented by Beehive2u is Morilite. This is a clinically tested, GMO-free, and patented Cistanche Tubulosa extract. The product is scientifically proven to enhance human memory.
Morilite is one of the top brain-boosting supplements in Malaysia that works by improving the function of neural pathways and aiding in neural regeneration.
It protects brain cells through the core component, Cistanche Tubulosa, which empowers and sustains your memory recall abilities and thinking skills.
Cistanche Tubulosa is a type of herb used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It contains numerous nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, and has been proven to improve memory function. The plant enhances the production of neurotransmitters for long-term brain health.
Morilite is an extract of this herb usually classified among the well-known natural supplements in Malaysia. This brain supplement can be taken as a normal prescription drug, like a capsule, or as part of a daily routine, such as drinking Morilite tea. Generally, with Morilite, you can improve,
· Cognitive capabilities
· Heart health
· Kidney function
· Romantic performance
These benefits are mainly linked to the Cistanche Tubulosa’s impact on the body, particularly the central nervous system. Studies reveal that Cistanche Tubulosa,
· Boosts memory function
· Stimulates nitric oxide production
· Helps in learning by enhancing nerve growth factors to boost brain energy while slowing or preventing age-related memory loss
· Promotes healthy hormone levels
· Lowers anti-aging properties on the skin
· Give antioxidant support
Cistanche Tubulosa, as mentioned earlier, is a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been shown to have many health benefits, including improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of cognitive decline. It also presents other diverse health benefits to the body.
However, each product's ingredients vary slightly from brand to brand. Some products contain more than one ingredient. For instance, most Cistanche Tubulosa extract can be used alongside:
· Aloe Vera leaf juice
· Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract
· Silybum Marianum fruit oil which is a type of milk thistle
· Bioperine, a natural compound found in black pepper
· Gelatin
· Silica and more to make supplements
These ingredients boost brain function, improve memory, reduce stress, and enhance other bodily functions like kidney functions, blood flow, and a healthy heart.
One of the most significant benefits of Cistanche Tubulosa extract is that it helps support healthy levels of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that controls many different functions in your brain, including learning and memory.
Cistanche Tubulosa is commonly called the ‘desert ginseng’ due to its multiple body energizing capabilities. It is widely used as an option in managing and treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Still, it shows many other benefits that boost your health and body system.
The herb has also shown promise in reducing cancer cells. Studies further indicate there are more than 100 phytochemical elements in Cistanche Tubulosa, including iridoids, lignans, alditols, phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), and more.
Such a composition makes the herb effective in creating supplements and other health products which can be mixed with water or as pills. Clinical studies show that it mitigates and enhances protection against multiple health conditions.
Its beneficial aspects include,
· Improvement of immunity
· Mitigation and protection against neurodegenerative disorders such as Dementia
· Remedy digestive problems
· Fights ulcers
· Combats gastritis
· Provides antioxidants
· Reduces blood pressure
· Treats diabetes
· Promotes sexual function
These help to maintain good health by providing energy to your body cells so they can function correctly. They also help with nerve conduction so that signals can be transmitted efficiently throughout the body's nervous system, which is responsible for controlling movement.
Some examples include vitamin E, vitamin D, and vitamin A, which help improve eyesight, and B vitamins like niacinamide, that aids digestion, or folic acid, which supports healthy red blood cell formation.
Above all, don't forget food is the best brain booster considered a dietary supplement.
It's essential to keep in mind that brain supplements are not magic pills. A healthy diet and exercise are crucial for your health, but supplements alone aren't going to help you increase your mental agility.
There's some evidence suggesting that people who take brain supplements tend to be less healthy than those who don't take any at all. While consuming certain foods could improve overall brain function, it may not directly affect cognitive ability.
For instance, eating blueberries or foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids improves your memory and cognitive abilities because they contain antioxidants or promote good moods. While they don’t directly work on the brain, eating them triggers a continuous flow of their beneficial effects.
But make sure you take the right portions to avoid cognitive health-related issues due to increased oxidative stress from too much fruit consumption.
You should therefore use brain supplements alongside other strategies such as a diet plan and exercise. This also prevents too much demand on the body's energy reserves. With the help of an expert, you can focus more on how you can channel and have such resources and strategies directed towards healthier activities like improving brain function.
Your cognitive functioning requires certain nutrients to remain healthy. This is because the brain is one of the most energy-consuming organs in our bodies. Essential brain chemicals decline or slow down without proper dietary supplements to boost mental health, exposing you to cognitive decline.
Preventing cognitive decline requires a well-structured dietary supplement to avoid cellular stress and brain fog. But, here are common foods that will help you sustain your brain chemistry.
Most berries, such as blueberries, are sources of flavonoid antioxidants. These elements help in lowering oxidative and inflammation-induced stress. Scientific research indicates that antioxidants also help in improving communication between brain cells.
This further increases plasticity essential for learning and memory. Common berries rich in antioxidants include blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, mulberries, and blackcurrants.
Most nuts contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Research has shown that nuts and seeds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress from free radicals.
The most common seeds and nuts rich in vitamin E are almonds, sunflowers, and hazelnuts.
Avocados are a rich source of healthy unsaturated fat. These are mainly unsaturated fats known to reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is usually associated with a decline in cognitive abilities.
Other rich sources of healthy unsaturated fats include soybean, canola oils, fish, flaxseed, and cashew nuts.
Eggs are a rich source of B vitamins. These include vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid. Scientific research shows that this class of vitamins delays cognitive decline and brain shrinkage.
Broccoli is another food that contains flavonoids and vitamin C. These are some of the essential antioxidants that boost your brain health. It is also a good source of glucosinolates which, when broken down by the body, provide isothiocyanates. This compound lowers oxidative stress and the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
This is the most common and well-known brain food. The fish types primarily include Tuna, Sardines, Salmon, Trout, Herring, and Albacore. These are mainly rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Basically, nearly 60% of your brain is made up of fat. Omega 3 fatty acids are usually the dominant compound. Omega 3 deficiency is associated with common learning impairments and depression.
The fatty acids inhibit age-related mental decline and prevent Alzheimer's disease.
These foods ferment when consumed with other foods but do not get digested. Instead, they feed beneficial bacteria in our gut, producing short-chain fatty acids called butyrate—chemicals produced during fermentation processes such as yogurt.
These substances aid digestion by promoting better absorption through increased stomach acid secretion levels caused by their presence within our intestines. This aids in the absorption of essential, potent brain booster nutrients.
The benefits of a healthy gut include reduced risk of heart disease and cancer, improved immune system function, increased energy levels, and weight loss and stress management.
Also, it sustains a healthy central nervous system critical for improving brain function. When you combine the required balanced diet and our unique brain supplements extracted from natural herbs like Cistanche Tubulosa, you sustain and significantly boost your cognitive functioning.
Healthy adults focus on their cognitive memory to prevent common disorders such as Dementia. Some activities alongside supplements and a healthy diet, such as brain games, can improve memory recall and keep your mind active.
However, there are certain things you should avoid regardless of the number of brain supplements you take. These lower the efficiency and effectiveness of dietary and brain supplements. Make sure you avoid,
· Too much alcohol
· Sleep deprivation
· Poor exercise routine
· Stressful situation
· Substance abuse
· Too much caffeine
· Too many processed sugary foods
These elements and situations trigger inappropriate oxidative reactions in your body, which are unsuitable for your brain functioning and promote mental lethargy.
A person getting enough vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements can still boost their cognitive abilities and brain chemistry with smart drugs. However, if it's challenging to sustain a regular healthy diet, you can benefit by boosting your cognitive abilities with brain supplements.
If you're looking for brain health supplements, there are many options. Some are better than others, and some offer more value than others. But Beehive2u is the best place to buy your brain supplement.
This is because we have a wide range of products at competitive prices. You can also take advantage of our offers and special promotions, including vouchers, coupons, and many others. You can also check and enroll in our reward program.
When buying your first brain supplement, there are a few things to look for and consider. Here are some.
It's essential to buy from a reputable source that is well-known in your area, like Beehive2u, and has an extensive history of providing quality products. This can be difficult for new companies, so do your research before purchasing anything online.
The price of a brain supplement should be reasonable considering what it costs to make them in-house or import them from overseas factories, which typically may cost more per pill.
Some supplements last up to six months, while others are only good for two or three weeks. Others come with money-back guarantees, which make them even more affordable if they don't work out as promised.
Check for side effects and potential risks associated with regular consumption of these supplements over time. This is vital, especially if no studies have shown any long-term health benefits.
This can be hard to determine in advance, but if possible, try to find a reputable brand like Morilite with good customer reviews and an established successful track record. Look for supplements that have been studied and proven effective by independent research groups. Don't just trust what people say without verifying or proof.
Consider a supplement made from natural ingredients like Cistanche Tubulosa in Morilite, not vitamins only. Not only is this better for your body than synthetic chemicals, but it also means that the product won't contain any artificial colors or flavorings.
Such flavorings can be harmful over time or reduce the supplement’s efficacy.
A solid scientific backing behind each ingredient listed on the label is another vital factor. Also, ensure it's a trustworthy company, like Beehive2u, behind each product. You should feel confident and comfortable knowing they stand behind their claims when selling their products.
When it comes to brain supplements, you should check a few things to determine if it's legit.
This is where you'll find out what's in the product and whether or not it's safe. You can do a background check on the ingredients.
The dosage determines if enough ingredients are present for you to see results. Certain products require a specific dosage for effectiveness and to avoid overdosing.
Lastly, do people who have tried this supplement have good things to say about it? You can also check reviews online and ask friends or family members who may have used similar products. If all three of these factors align with your needs and preferences as an individual consumer, then chances are good that this particular product will work well for your purpose.
Cistanche Tubulosa extracts such as Morilite are unique compounds that make some of the best brain supplements. Beehive2u endeavors to make some of the best brain products in Malaysia, China, and other areas.
Still, there are other brain supplements and compounds, which include,
This supplement is an excellent choice to increase memory and concentration. It can also help with stress, anxiety, and depression.
This herb has been used for centuries as an effective treatment for many health conditions, including arrhythmias, epilepsy, Dementia, and Parkinson's disease (PD). The active ingredient in this supplement is ginkgolides which improve circulation by increasing blood flow to the brain.
It also improves oxygenation of the brain cells, which increases learning capacity by helping them work better together (synaptic function), making it easier for you to learn new things or improve your memory recall.
PS is another anti-aging supplement that reduces body inflammation, including the brain cells, so that they can function normally. This is after age has taken a toll on you, mainly due to physical damage during childhood.
It usually occurs when growth and development are rapid under normal circumstances but are suddenly affected and stopped by a lack of essential nutrients or contamination and pollution caused by manufacturing processes where harmful chemicals, preservatives, and other elements like mercury are used or contaminate the process.
Brain supplements or smart drugs can help you increase your brain power, but they are not a replacement for healthy eating and exercise. Using them in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular physical activity is best. But taking them without dietary supplements is not beneficial compared to a combination of regular exercise and diet.
Beehive2u brain supplements offer the best quality and ingredients, particularly Morilite, a Cistanche Tubulosa extract. For instance, taking this product will give you a combination of vital elements essential for your brain health.
Still, consult our experts to guide you if you have questions about which supplements would be best for you.
It's no secret that as we age, our bodies alter. We get aches and pains in joints that used to catapult us out of bed in the morning. But, in addition to our bodies changing as we age, our minds are continually evolving. However, it's not as straightforward as you would assume.
Some functions, such as memory processing speed, and spatial awareness, decline with age, while others, such as language skills and abstract reasoning, improve.
But why does this happen? And, from a public health standpoint, what does the brain changes tell us about our aging self and the aging population?
The brain generates over a million new neural connections every second during childhood. By the age of six, the brain has grown to approximately 90% of its adult volume.
Significantly, there is a massive relationship between age and brain function. The brain's normal cognitive aging begins to shrink in our 30s and 40s, and the rate of shrinking increases much more by the 60s. The appearance of the brain tissue starts to change, just as wrinkles and grey hair do later in life. The physical changing of our brains indicates that our cognitive functions will change.
The following changes are common as we age:
White matter: White matter is composed of myelinated nerve fibers, which organize into tracts and transmit impulses between brain cells. Myelin, according to researchers, diminishes with age, slowing processing speed, problem-solving capabilities, and lower cognitive ability. White matter is a vast, interweaving network of neuronal connections that connect the brain's four lobes (frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital) and the limbic system, the brain's emotion centre.
Brain mass: While total brain volume diminishes with age, the frontal lobe and hippocampus, specialized parts of the brain necessary for cognitive skills, shrink more than other areas causing slower processing speeds.
The frontal lobes are found right behind the brow. They are sizeable human brain lobes that are emotional control centres for our personalities.
The hippocampus is an intricate brain structure located deep within the temporal lobe. It is essential for learning and memory. According to research, the hippocampus is vulnerable to various neurological and mental problems.
Neurotransmitter systems: The brain begins to create varying levels of chemicals that alter neurotransmitters and protein formation, eventually decreasing cognitive function.
Cortical density refers to thinning of the brain's outer corrugated surface due to decreased synaptic connections. The wrinkled outer layers of the brain regions that contains neuronal cell bodies, the cerebral cortex, likewise thin with age.
Cortical thinning follows a similar pattern to volume loss and is most noticeable in the prefrontal cortex, frontal lobes, and areas of the temporal lobe. Significantly, lower densities result in fewer connections, contributing to slower cognitive processing.
As a result of these changes, older adults may experience memory issues such as trouble recalling names or words, diminished focus, or a reduced ability to multitask.
Neurons begin to die with an aging brain, and the cells also create a substance known as amyloid-beta. Amyloid beta, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease are frequently linked. It may also exist in an older person's brain.
The presence of amyloid-beta plaques (prions) in the brain may indicate Alzheimer's disease. When plaque is present, but no prions are present, it may be a marker of normal aging. Overall, it becomes increasingly difficult for older people to care for themselves as their brains age.
Researchers have discovered several factors that influence how aging impacts brain function. For example, obesity in middle age may speed the brain's aging process by ten years, and food and sugary drinks are associated with worsening the normal aging process.
An increasing amount of studies reveals that those who have the least cognitive and memory deficits all have the same healthy lifestyle:
· staying socially active
· eating a healthful diet
· engaging in regular physical activity
· sleeping well
· pursuing intellectually stimulating activities
· managing stress
A recent study reveals a myriad of methods by which people can actively take control of their aging brain health and possibly slow the rate at which their mental function. The following sections will go through some of these pointers in further depth.
Age-related cognitive decline has regularly been proven to reduce physical exercise. Moderate-intensity aerobic and resistance training for at least 45 minutes per session on as many days of the week as possible can dramatically improve blood pressure, brain connections power, and neural connections in adults aged 50 and over.
Similarly, researchers at the University of Miami in Florida discovered that people over 50 who did little to no exercise suffered a deterioration in memory and cognitive skills equivalent to 10 years of age in 5 years, compared to those who did moderate or high-intensity exercise.
Physical activity essentially reduced brain aging by ten years. Dancing may potentially have an anti-aging effect on older folks' brains. A German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases study in Magdeburg discovered that, while regular exercise can erase the indications of brain aging, persons who danced had the most profound benefit.
Diet is an essential aspect of brain health. Researchers discovered a relationship between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the blood and healthy brain aging in 2018.
Another study discovered that eating items from the Mediterranean or MIND diet is connected with a lower incidence of memory problems in older adults.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign observed that middle-aged adults with more significant amounts of lutein — a vitamin found in green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, eggs, and avocados — showed brain responses akin to younger people than those of the same age.
Importantly, older adults can include Csitanche tubulosa in their diet. Cistanche may be a natural way to boost levels of youthful growth hormone. Due to their anti-inflammatory effects, Echinacoside and other bioactive components of Cistanche can pass through the blood-brain barrier to protect brain cells. It also has an antioxidant effect, which aids in promoting new cell growth and preventing aging.
Playing a musical instrument may help older adults avoid age-related cognitive loss and keep their listening skills, according to researchers at Baycrest Health Sciences in Toronto, Canada.
Researchers discovered that learning to play a musical instrument modifies brain waves and increases a person's listening and hearing abilities. The change in brain activity suggests that the brain rewires itself to compensate for diseases or injuries that may impair a person's capacity to accomplish tasks.
Social connection helps to prevent sadness and stress, which can both lead to memory loss. Look for ways to connect with loved ones, friends, and others, mainly if you live alone. Studies show that solitary confinement causes brain atrophy. Thus, maintaining a social life may have the opposite effect and improve the health of your brain.
Your brain is analogous to a muscle in that you must use or lose it. You may engage in numerous activities to keep your brain in shape, such as crossword puzzles or Sudoku, reading, playing cards, or assembling a jigsaw puzzle. Consider it cognitive tests-training. To boost effectiveness, incorporate a variety of activities.
More frequent confusion or memory loss are signs of subjective cognitive decline (SCD). It is a type of cognitive impairment and one of the first indications of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. SCD can impact how you live with and manage chronic illness and conduct regular tasks like cooking and cleaning. Because SCD is self-reported, it does not imply a professional diagnosis of cognitive decline.
Cognition is a set of brain activities that include the ability to learn, remember, and make decisions. When one's cognition is damaged, it can significantly influence one's general health and well-being.
As humans age affects cognition, forgetting how to execute ordinary chores, for example, is not a regular aspect of aging and might impair a person's capacity to live and function independently. Some people with psychiatric disorders may be unable to care for themselves or conduct everyday chores such as meal preparation, scheduling medical appointments, or managing personal finances.
Cognitive limitations may impair a person's capacity to successfully manage prescription regimens, resulting in poor health outcomes for concomitant chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.
Significantly, you may improve many older adults’ health and well-being by teaching people about modifiable risk factors, supporting early assessment and action, and recognizing the impact on seniors and their families.
Perception, attention, memory, decision-making, and language understanding are all examples of cognitive abilities. Cognitive functions are essential in both everyday and social conduct. For example, when going shopping, we make our brain responds to memorize knowledge on what to buy, how to make a correct purchasing decision, how to converse with shop assistants, etc. Also, when communicating with a friend, we identify the friend by looking at faces or hearing a voice, and then we share information with the friend.
Our cognitive changes during our lives. From childhood until young adulthood, cognitive abilities improve. Significantly, some cognitive processes, such as executive functions and working memory, peak around the late twenties or early thirties. Semantic knowledge (semantic memory) grows until 60 or 70, though.
Memory, attention, executive functioning, and fluid intelligence may all deteriorate with an aging brain. Previous research has shown that more excellent cognitive functioning in children and younger adults is associated with higher academic accomplishment.
Additionally, the mild cognitive impairment in older adults creates difficulty doing basic everyday activities. As a result, cognitive process improvements through intervention programs garner interest at all ages.
Consult a doctor for clinical trials if you are worried about your normal brain aging. They can assist you in determining whether the changes in your memory and thinking are normal or if something else is happening.
Significantly, you can do things to preserve your physical health, which may also enhance your cognitive health.
Links
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/how-aging-brain-affects-thinking
Memory loss is the inability to remember new events or memories. It also affects an individual's judgment, language, reasoning, and thinking skills. The condition can be age-related memory loss or an unhealthy lifestyle such as drug abuse.
Further, memory loss can be caused by health conditions such as Alzheimer's disease that affect a person's daily functioning. The illness affects individual brain cells due to the abnormal accumulation of proteins in the central nervous system.
Luckily, dietary supplements such as Morilite can prevent cognitive decline since they promote memory and brain health. The advantage of these brain supplements is that they are 100% natural and cannot adversely affect your health.
Morilite is a natural supplement containing Cistanche tubulosa concentrate, a famous traditional Chinese medicine. The herb has a stimulant effect like caffeine and can help with neurological problems since it improves memory by nourishing and protecting brain cells in aging individuals.
It might also promote efficient working and learning capability by enhancing focus and attention on a specific task. In addition, Morilite can also increase oxygen and blood flow, promoting a healthy heart.
A case study on mice shows that Cistanche tubulosa extracts, a traditional Chinese medicine, improve cognitive function related to memory loss. The herb promotes neurite outgrowth, neuron cell differentiation, and presynaptic formation.
However, more research is still needed to understand the neuroprotective mechanism Cistanche tubulosa play in improving mental performance.
There are many natural supplements in the market that positively impact cognitive functions in healthy adults. The products can promote healthy brain functions by boosting mental alertness, creativity, motivation, and memory. They can also prevent cognitive decline caused by age-related factors, helping you maintain brain health past your prime years.
Here are some of the supplements used to improve memory and brain function
Morilite and amino acids are both supplements used to boost memory in healthy adults. However, research shows that using amino acids as dietary supplements promotes gastrointestinal distress like diarrhea and nausea. These effects are caused by inefficient absorption of the nutrients leading to digestive problems.
Further, other effects have been evaluated sporadically that excess amino acid intake can promote tumor cell growth due to increased ammonia production.
On the other hand, research proves that morilite boosts immune defense, reducing the risk of cancer. It is a potential candidate that has bioactivity properties that can help fight colon cancer. Another study done on mice with gastritis disorders shows that Cistanche tubulosa, the Chinese medicine present in Morilite, revived the growth of lactic acid bacteria in the digestive system.
So, when you compare the side effects of Morilite and amino acid supplements, Morilite has few side effects on intestinal disorders while improving memory. Therefore taking them can offer you cognitive benefits that will enhance your memory functions without posing risk factors.
Although the traditional Mediterranean diet, omega-3 fatty acids are essential in improving brain function. It comes with several health risks that can negatively affect your life.
One of the majorly known side effects caused by the excessive intake of this nutrient is that it could lead to increase blood sugar levels for individuals with diabetes. This is because a large dosage of omega-3 acids stimulates glucose production, which elevates blood sugar levels.
Moreover, since omega-3 fatty acid is rich in vitamin A, they can cause toxicity when consumed in high amounts. They can lead to unfavorable short-term effects such as nausea, skin irritation, and dizziness.
In the long term, it might lead to liver damage or even liver failure in worst-case scenarios. Therefore, using Morilite to combat memory decline can save you from all these health risks since it doesn't affect blood sugar levels or any organ in the body.
Ginkgo biloba is a tree native to Japan, Korea, and Japan, currently used as a dietary supplement to improve cognitive functions such as memory. Using Ginkgo Biloba extract can lead to stomach upsets, dizziness, headaches, and skin reactions.
In addition, research shows that ginkgo Biloba supplements might also cause excessive bleeding during delivery when taken near that period.
When it comes to Morilite supplements, there are no cases reported of this product causing any bleeding-related side effects.
Even though vitamin E supplements are widely used to prevent cognitive decline and manage people's conditions such as Alzheimer's, the nutrient can lead to several adverse effects when taken in high doses.
For example, a 2014 case study shows that excessive consumption of vitamin supplements in males increases their risk of getting cancer by 17%. Other adverse results associated with vitamin e include; fatigue, general body weakness, skin rash, blurred vision, intestinal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and headache.
On the other hand, Morilite as a dietary supplement has no evidence of promoting the risk associated with cancer. Therefore, taking them for the long and short term is safe for both men and women.
Caffeine is a potent alkaloid found in various plant species such as kola nuts, cocoa beans, tea leaves, and popular coffee beans. Most people take it as a stimulant and as a brain supplement that improves memory.
However, caffeine provides cognitive benefits that are short-lived. So, individuals who have Alzheimer's disease cannot rely on such supplements due to the temporary effects.
Moreover, an overdose of caffeine supplements might cause heart palpitations and tremors, worsening mental conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Another disadvantage associated with the intake of caffeine supplements is that it can lead to urinary and fecal incontinence. Therefore, taking it while in public might embarrass you due to bowel accidents that may unexpectedly occur.
When caffeine supplements are compared to Morilite supplements, the latter is usually used to cure Alzheimer's disease. This is because it contains potent properties that promote cognitive function by boosting memory and learning abilities.
Furthermore, Morilite supplements don't cause heart palpitations. In fact, it may promote a healthy heart by increasing blood in your body, decreasing the potential risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Flavonoids can be found in vegetables such as kales and contains anti-oxidant properties that may protect the body. Also, the nutrients might impact mammalian cognition since it is taken to improve brain function such as memory.
Besides all these benefits associated with flavonoid supplements, they might cause their users tingling sensations, headaches, and nausea when taken in high amounts. This might make an individual fail to enjoy their journey to regain memory functions.
When it comes to Morilite, it may have fewer adverse effects connected to the digestive system, such as vomiting and nausea. It ensures you get the whole experience of this potent brain booster with bare uncomfortable results.
With that said, depending on your preference, it is up to you to choose a dietary supplement that your body can tolerate. Unlike prescription drugs, herbs are all-natural supplements that enhance memory and offer the best experience.
Ginseng, popularly known as Panax ginseng, is a herbal supplement used to protect brain cells from free radicals, boosting memory. It is currently used as a memory pill to prevent health decline that comes with either old age or illnesses.
Unfortunately, when taken in excess, it can lead to severe medical conditions such as renal toxicity, allergy, affective disorder, genital organ bleeding, hypertension, hepatoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. However, more research is needed to prove these cases.
Furthermore, Ginseng supplements may also cause insomnia, headaches, and digestive problems when taken as memory pills.
On the other hand, Cistanche tubulosa, an all-natural herb in Morilite, rarely has any cases related to medical conditions connected to Ginseng.
The adverse effects such as nausea associated with Morilite are only mild and temporary, and not every individual will experience them.
Many people are dealing with memory loss due to lifestyle changes, medical illnesses, or old age in this fast-paced world. These conditions may negatively affect their social life since they tend to get judged, making them avoid public places.
To enhance their memory, they take prescription drugs that harm than good since they contain ingredients that lead to addiction.
Fortunately, taking all-natural memory pills such as Morilite can help you regain healthy brain function without causing any adverse effects. The Chinese have used this herb for a thousand years, proving its magical benefits in supporting brain health.
So, if you have been taking other dietary supplements to prevent such decline that affects your memory, nothing seems to work. Then, it is best to try Morilite and witness the changes it will have in your brain function.
However, ensure to purchase Cistanche tubulosa products from such a reputable seller that has quality and safe dietary supplements that are safe to consume.
Finally, it is essential to understand that each body reacts differently to dietary supplements. Therefore, your experience might differ from another person's results; hence not best to compare. The herbal supplements might also work faster for an individual depending on factors such as age, weight, and tolerance.
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Adequate blood flow is essential for optimal brain health as it ensures our brain functions properly. Namely, regular blood flow to the brain supplies it with oxygen and all the necessary nutrients that maintain the brain's pH level while eliminating everything our body no longer needs.
Furthermore, these nutrients maintain the alkaline degree and keep the brain cells hydrated, which is extremely important considering the cells are more than 72% liquid. With a steady flow, it's easy for our bodies to remove all toxins and unnecessary substances from the brain.
Although our brain is a small part of our body's total weight, it needs plenty of energy and resources to function properly. Approximately 1L of blood flow per minute through a blood vessel is needed to achieve optimal results and ensure adequate blood supply.
So, how do you improve blood circulation and boost brain power? Here are some great recommendations.
Ketogenic diets, commonly known as keto diets, are popular low-carbohydrate and high-fat diets. According to keto dieting guidelines, people shouldn't consume more than 40g of carbohydrates daily.
Therefore, consumers of keto diets need to avoid carbohydrates at all costs, including foods such as potatoes, rice, legumes, oats, and various fruits.
How is keto dieting connected to increasing blood flow and improving brain function?
Well, taking a lower amount of carbohydrates causes our bodies to enter the state of ketosis. Ketosis enables our body and brain to run on ketones, also known as fats, instead of using glucose for the same purpose.
By allowing our bodies to use ketones, the improved blood flow, and reduced inflammation increase brain function and reduce high blood pressure. Thanks to those beneficial effects, it's possible to reduce the chance of suffering from a stroke.
Nitrates are two naturally-occurring compounds. They're found in plant foods and soil. Some foods contain high amounts of metal nitrates, and consuming these foods can drastically stimulate blood flow to the brain and improve overall brain health.
If you're looking to boost blood flow by introducing certain foods into your diet, then nitrates are the answer. They can improve cognitive functions and protect the brain from cognitive decline.
When it comes to foods that contain high concentrations of nitrates, consider consuming beets, cabbage, spinach, celery, and a selection of other leafy green vegetables. Beet juice is particularly famous for being a rich source of nitrates, and implementing it into your diet will help you widen your blood vessels and increase blood and oxygen flow to the brain.
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Insulin is a hormone that's produced in the pancreas. It's the primary anabolic hormone in the human body, and it's responsible for regulating the glucose levels in our bodies. Not only does insulin protect us from diseases such as diabetes, but it also influences our brain activity.
Intranasal insulin is a nasal spray used to quickly and effectively administer insulin. With the intranasal insulin device, you can spray and inhale insulin through the nasal cavity and instantly improve poor blood flow.
When you inhale intranasal insulin, you affect the insulin receptors located in the brain. Once the insulin receptors detect higher insulin levels, they speed up brain blood circulation and improve the brain's cognitive function.
In addition to boosting brain performance, intranasal insulin also helps reduce anxiety and improves the quality and quantity of information.
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Chewing increases blood flow and thus improves flow to the brain. Chewing gum can be a simple method to enjoy the multiple benefits of chewing and enhance the brain's cognitive function.
Namely, the benefits associated with this activity are improvements in spatial and working memory, as well as an increase in arousal and alertness levels when an individual is focused on cognitive activity.
Besides enhancing receptivity during cognitive tasks, chewing gum also effectively reduces cortisol levels, as long as it's aspartame-free. So, you can chew gum to achieve a relaxed state since the gum alters brainwave patterns and enhances cerebral blood flow to the brain.
Chewing gum is frequently used by kids and teens since it helps them maintain healthy and functional brain activity. However, acetic acid carnitine found in chewing gum can also reverse the effects of neurodegenerative disorders by improving acetylcholine levels in brain cells.
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Physical exercise has countless medical associations with health, and reducing low blood flow is one of them. Physical activity and regular exercise are necessary to maintain a healthy mind, so introducing some kind of sport or physical exercise is essential for ensuring good regional cerebral blood flow.
You don't have to choose a demanding sport or heavy exercise to improve blood flow. Any activity will keep your blood flowing, so you should go with an activity you enjoy.
Exercise shouldn't be too heavy, and choosing activities such as hiking or yoga are great examples of how light exercise can positively influence blood circulation and brain blood flow.
These physical activities work wonders for healthy blood flow and increase the flow of oxygen and reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
Acupuncture is an ancient practice and a form of alternative medicine that incorporates the insertion of thin needles into the body. The purpose of the needles is to balance the flow of qi – what ancient philosophers believed was the body's vital energy.
Although science has debunked such views of human biology over the centuries, this practice still has some benefits. Acupuncture helps reduce muscle tension, decrease inflammation, balance hormones, and neurotransmitters, and increase blood flow to the brain.
However, the practice accomplishes that without increasing the heart rate or raising blood pressure. That makes it a promising treatment for stroke patients or people with heart disease who want to boost blood flow without taking any risk factors.
One of the most popular methods is auricular acupuncture, which involves the insertion of needles into ears and ear canals. Auricular acupuncturing works wonderfully in improving brain circulation.
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Meditation is one of the favorite relaxation methods in eastern parts of the world and on a global scale. Meditation involves special techniques that rely on focusing or mindfulness to train awareness and achieve a state of emotional calmness and mental clarity.
As such, meditation offers many benefits besides reaching an inner state of peace and calmness, including improving language fluency and logical memory. Moreover, meditation enhances blood flow and thus improves the brain's cognitive performance.
Only 15–30 minutes of meditation daily is enough to significantly increase blood flow and stimulate parts of the brain responsible for memory retrieval. Many see meditation as a perfect relaxation practice in today's busy and stressful way of living.
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Chilly temperatures improve circulation and increase the brain's blood pressure. Exposure to the cold significantly affects blood flow by stimulating the heart to beat faster and increasing blood pressure.
Besides having significant benefits for the brain's blood flow, exposure to the cold can also positively affect the nervous system. The cold water helps reduce cortisol levels, a stress-inducing hormone.
Therefore, taking a cold shower can release endorphins in your brain, also known as the feel-good hormones, and help you combat poor circulation and increased levels of stress at the same time.
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Sun exposure has many benefits. From supplying us with the much-needed vitamin D to improving our sleep quality, there are many advantages one can experience from exposure to sunlight.
Yet another advantage of sunlight is that the bright light from the sun increases brain blood flow and thus improves brain health. Natural light does the best job of improving blood flow and brain function, but spending time in natural light isn't always a possibility.
Peer-reviewed studies showed that artificial light has some outstanding advantages too. For example, artificial light or a light box can increase blood circulation. The researchers used PET scans to measure cerebral blood flow, and the scans detected an increased blood flow activity only after a couple of light therapies.
Therefore, spending more time in the sun or using a healthy light-emitting device can help you if you're struggling with reduced blood flow.
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We all know music naturally decreases cortisol levels and helps people wind off and relax. It also increases mood, so people are often happier and more inspirational after listening to some music.
However, how does music achieve this, and does any scientific background support this?
Music stimulates blood flow to the brain, and this activity seems to lead to all the other benefits people experience from listening to music. It has been proved by a study using functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure blood flow. Scientists concluded that music could increase the brain's blood flow and positively affect circulation.
Listening to and learning the songs you genuinely enjoy makes these positive benefits of music even more effective.
Certain foods can significantly improve brain health by positively affecting brain blood flow and circulation. Here's a list of the right foods you need to consume to get rid of the low blood flow to the brain.
Drinking blueberry juice can improve memory as it improves memory functions. Namely, blueberry juice increases oxygen levels in the brain and stimulates blood circulation, which is closely connected to the quality of brain memory.
That's possible thanks to pyrocloxyquinoline quinone, an enzyme found in blueberry juice, as it boosts mental activity and improves cognitive performance in an individual. Besides that, blueberry juice can also positively impact mental health.
Ginger has a pretty high potency when it comes to blood flow. It contains polyphenols, which are plant compounds with detoxifying and anti-viral properties. Polyphenols work great against harmful chemicals found in the environment, which cause a reduction in blood flow.
Besides effectively combating reduced blood flow, ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, its regular use has been linked to a decrease in some long-term consequences of dementia and similar mental disorders.
Cinnamon is known to lower blood pressure, but that doesn't mean it also reduces blood circulation. High blood pressure and poor blood circulation are frequently linked, especially in hypertensive patients.
Fortunately, just a tiny amount of cinnamon can reduce blood pressure and improve blood circulation. Sprinkle some cinnamon on your breakfast cereal to instantly feel the difference.
If you're on the hunt for food that'll positively influence the prefrontal cortex – the big front area of the brain mainly responsible for memory and cognitive performance – turmeric is the right solution.
Turmeric's primary compound – curcumin – improves brain oxygenation and thus increases brain performance and function.
Nevertheless, turmeric is quite difficult to absorb by the human body, which limits the benefits you can receive from this superfood. Luckily, there's a simple solution. Simply mix your turmeric with the tiniest pinch of pepper to make it more bioavailable. That'll enable you to enjoy the powerful effects of turmeric fully.
Dark chocolate is probably everyone's favorite choice when discussing foods that improve blood flow to the brain. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate stimulate blood in the blood vessels to flow more freely, which is closely connected to better brain function.
Just a square or two is more than enough to sharpen your focus and increase concentration when you need it. Dark chocolate is also an ideal pick-me-up when you're feeling blue. If you're not a fan of dark chocolate's bitter taste, you can always try hot chocolate as an alternative.
Everyone's talking about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Since omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fish, fish is frequently described as a food responsible for improving brain tissue health and cognitive performance.
Salmon is probably the most famous example of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It's many people's first choice when it comes to fish due to its neutral taste. Other omega-3 fatty fish include sardines, mackerel, and herring. Fish oil also contains high levels of omega-3.
Although introducing certain foods mentioned in this post can be a great way to experience improved brain power and increased memory, it's not always easy to track whether you've inserted enough of the right foods to feel the effects.
Fortunately, supplements represent an easy way to ensure you take the necessary nutrients that stimulate blood flow and secure you with all the beneficial effects. With Morilite, you can increase cerebral blood flow.
Morilite is a supplement that uses raw material extracted from a plant called Cistanche tubulosa. This flower grows in China, particularly in the Taklimakan Desert Region of Xinjiang, located in the Uyghur Autonomous Region. Cistanche tubulosa has been used for various remedies since 100 BC and is still popular today.
With Cistanche tubulosa as the main ingredient, users of Morilite can enjoy a long list of benefits connected to brain performance and memory functions. Some of these benefits include:
With these benefits and many others, users of Morilite can quickly improve brain blood flow and enjoy all its benefits.
Resources used in the article:
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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170412181341.htm
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09637486.2021.1972411
Everyday Habits To Boost Your Brain Power
As we advance in age, the sad reality is that we experience cognitive decline. That means we can't maintain our cognitive function at optimum as we age. Even though this can prove overwhelming, there are everyday habits you can adopt to keep your memory and brain health in optimum shape.
The habits should be practically easy to adopt and improve your brain health without inputting too much effort. Below are good habits to adopt in your daily routine that boost brain power and improve your cognitive performance.
When undergoing age-related memory decline, you can improve your memory by walking and lifting weights, instead of only stretching and toning. Walking and lifting weights strengthen your spatial memory and brain health.
Different workouts have varied effects on your mind, so make sure you do more than one workout and make it a daily routine.
The duration of naps is five times more in adults than in children. And as we age, our processing speed slows down, necessitating constant rest for recharge.
According to recent studies, 45-60 minute naps can improve one's learning and mental abilities. To prove this, researchers conducted a study where they asked a group of people to master some word pairs. They later split the group into two. One group took a nap while the other group watched TV. Later they retested them to see how well they could remember their word pairs. From the study, those who napped could recall their word pairs better than those who
Contrary to popular belief, the brain can't handle more than one task effectively. So, multitasking decreases your productivity. When you multitask, you are forcing your brain to keep rethinking its direction abruptly, which can be stressful to the body. The stress hormone cortisol levels increase, causing neurotoxicity and neurological damage.
Excess sugar is harmful to the body. It causes blood sugar levels to rise, which is detrimental to the brain and results in slow cognitive function, memory, and attention deficit.
Research conducted in 2016 concluded that high sugar levels cause inflammation in the brain, leading to memory problems. The research findings showed inflammatory markers on the hippocampus of rats fed high sugar diets, and none in the rats fed a standard diet.
You can reverse inflammatory damage caused by high sugar intake by following a low sugar diet. Moderate alcohol consumption also has health benefits, while excessive consumption of alcohol causes harmful effects on the brain and the body. Alcohol effects on the brain vary with individuals, but the signs are similar to other symptoms like dementia.
Alcohol blocks chemical signals between the brain cells and neurons, immediately causing symptoms of intoxication like poorer memories and impaired speech. Alcoholics will most likely end up experiencing brain shrinkage, which is the reduction in the volume of the white matter and the grey matter over time. Reducing alcohol and sugar intake is a great way to improve brain health and achieve optimum cognitive function.
Games can give you a mental boost. According to research, playing a physics-based puzzle game, cut-the-rope, greatly improved one's concentration, task-switching skills, and adapting skills compared to playing other video games. So, to improve your memory and cognitive skills, play complex brain teasers that involve strategic planning and adjustments.
There is a study that found older adults who carry out chores actively tend to have more gray matter: the part of the brain linked to emotions, memory, speech, self-control, and decision making. Better cognitive function is related to having more gray matter, while a decrease in gray matter is linked to Alzheimer's and other dementia-like diseases. Despite your age, you should be active in carrying out your chores to help improve cognitive function.
Various studies have shown that red wines are beneficial to heart health. Resveratrol, which may be found in red and blueberries and dark chocolate, has been found to help the brain improve memory formation. The study showed that the people that took daily doses of 200 mg resveratrol instead of a placebo had an easier time recalling phrases after 30 minutes.
Bilingualism improves mental health, according to researchers. The researchers used MRI scans to study the brains of those with cognitive impairment. They found the brains of those fluent in more than one language to be thick and dense in the parts that control language, memory, and cognition. Though the researchers explained that being bilingual may not prevent one from developing Alzheimer's disease, it builds up a cognitive reserve that slows down the onset of the disease.
Yes, it means having sex. According to Australian researchers, middle-aged and older couples who routinely have sex before bedtime are more likely to perform better on memory tests. According to the researchers, intimacy may improve memory by stimulating parts of the hippocampus, the memory-related brain region. The catch is that sex only enhances short-term memory, so it lasts only for a short period. But it will be great at helping you remember small things like where you placed your keys.
Healthy lipids and omega-3 fatty acids are essential in cognitive processes. Consuming enough omega-3s can boost memory. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) alone can enhance working memory and episodic memory, improve general neuroprotection, and reduce blood flow into the brain, among other things.
Numerous studies have found a link between sleep and learning. Researchers discovered that mice could remember their own behavior while sleeping while concentrating on sleepless states, strengthening their memory. So getting several hours of restful sleep every night ensures your memories are retained. When you're sleeping, it's difficult to generate a new memory. A recent study found that people who frequently wake up early in the morning have five times increased risk of amyloid plaque accumulation, a primary symptom of Alzheimer's disease. Also, sleeping gives the body a chance to reset and repair itself. It helps balance the hormone cortisol and regulates blood sugar levels.
Do not hesitate to take up some guitar or piano lessons in your free time. A study originally published in the Journal of Neuroscience showed that when learning to play a musical instrument, there were some changes in the brain waves that boost one's hearing and listening immensely. The shift in brain activities helps one retain their listening skills and lowers the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Stress-relieving activities like daily walks around your neighborhood, weekly massages, and reading can help keep both your mind and body in good shape. Long-term stress can impair memory by slowing down the memory section of the brain. You must not ignore any stressors and should incorporate methods to help relieve stress.
It is undebatable that we are what we eat every day. Experts advise adopting a Mediterranean diet to keep your brain healthy and improve memory. It is a diet that has loads of fresh vegetables, fruits, healthy fats like virgin olive oil, fish, nuts, and legumes: balanced levels of red wine, and restricted red meat. A study shows that older people who follow a Mediterranean diet daily for three years maintained a higher brain volume than those who consumed the western diet. They also had a lower risk of having Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
When it comes to improving your memory and boosting brain power, the small, consistent changes you make every day regarding your sleep, nutrition, and exercise will cause tremendous changes in your life. It can be challenging to adopt all these routines at once, but don't beat yourself up for that: you can integrate a couple a day.
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Ways To Control The Aging Process
Aging is a natural and continuous process of physiological changes throughout our lifespan. During this time, the skin gets thinner and drier. We also experience memory loss which can affect our self-esteem.
Several factors cause aging, but the leading cause is when the collagen elasticity breaks down, causing wrinkles. Genes can also hasten the process of aging and unfavorable lifestyle like unhealthy eating habits. Exposing your skin to harmful UV rays can also cause premature aging.
To combat aging, most people buy pharmaceutical drugs. However, most themes contain harmful ingredients that can adversely affect your health. This is one of the reasons individuals are turning to natural-based skincare products and healthy lifestyles to control the aging process.
Most people use anti-aging products to slow the process for flawless skin. However, a perfect skincare routine is not enough to control the inevitable action. Good blood circulation is the most important thing since it supplies essential nutrients to the skin cells. Your diet has an impact on how your skin ages.
Your skin depends on the circulation system, blood vessels, and capillaries network to receive oxygenated blood essential for skin cells repair. It also assists in the transportation of carbon dioxide, including other waste products, from your skin which prevents toxins from building up.
Unfortunately, several factors can affect blood circulation, like medical conditions, unhealthy lifestyles, and a bad diet. When this happens, you will notice your skin having several symptoms such as:
Cerebral circulation refers to blood movement in the brain through various arteries and veins. This is the most crucial process in the human body since this essential organ controls all the functions in the central nervous system.
In fact, Blood circulation ensures the brain has enough oxygen and nutrients needed to function well. And when the system is impaired, the brain becomes damaged, leading to various conditions such as dementia or physical disabilities.
You might be wondering what exactly causes poor blood circulation to the brain. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption can negatively affect cerebral circulation. Most of these health conditions are primarily from living unhealthy lifestyles.
In addition, age also affects cerebral blood flow, leading to conditions such as dementia. According to research, aging causes the brain to shrink, particularly the frontal cortex, making individuals lose the ability to do typical, simple tasks, affecting their lives.
One of the main components of cigarettes is nicotine which can affect your skin by causing premature aging through wrinkles. It makes the body's blood vessels shrink hence reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells.
Research studies link tobacco to dermatological conditions, including acne, melanoma, psoriasis, hair loss, and premature aging. Quitting smoking will improve your blood and oxygen flow throughout your body, enabling you to maintain physical health and mental well-being.
Most people know that physical exercises are essential to maintaining a good shape. However, frequent exercise can help you control the aging process considerably. It promotes favorable lifestyle changes by assisting you to keep a healthy heart, lungs, brain, skin, bones, and muscles.
So, If you are too busy to join a gym session near you, you can choose to engage in home workouts, walk your dog in the evening, or cycle to pick up groceries. However light the exercises are, they will always make a difference by controlling the aging process.
Research shows that a single night of not having enough rest makes an individual cell age quickly. This is because your body doesn't get enough time to produce enough cells and repair the damaged ones. It also lowers cortisol levels, a vital hormone in providing elasticity to your skin, making it look dull.
With that said, you need to get enough sleep and at least 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted rest. It will not only leave your skin looking beautiful, but you will live longer with fewer health conditions.
Stress affects your mental health as it causes the release of the stress chemical cortisol, which breaks down skin collagen and elasticity. The mental condition can also lead to skin inflammation, leading to premature wrinkles, especially on the forehead.
Luckily, you can control wrinkles for healthy aging by getting rid of stress which makes your mind and body relax by alleviating the inflammation.
A poor diet containing unhealthy fats, refined sugars, and salt can affect your skin, accelerating aging. Also, most processed foods contain synthetic ingredients that lead to conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes that damage the normal functions of your cell. Further, a lousy diet worsens acne by causing inflammation which interferes with the skin's collagen leading to early wrinkles.
Additionally, an unhealthy diet affects the skin and impacts the brain. It can lead to problems associated with learning, remembering, and thinking, which are some of the signs of aging.
So, to improve your skin's health and combat aging, you should eat a balanced diet that includes more fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and lean meat. Taking healthy foods also provides the body with the necessary nutrients needed to rejuvenate cells, thus slowing this process.
Since immemorial, people have been using natural products to manage various conditions. Some herbs have several health benefits, and it is no surprise that they have found their way into the modern world to control aging. Most of these plant-based products contain anti-aging properties that prevent the skin and the brain from being damaged. One of the commonly used herbs is cistanche, a traditional Chinese product that helps individuals manage renal problems and increase longevity.
Cistanche contains antioxidant, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antiviral properties. The natural herb also improves cognitive functions, boosts physical strength, and helps individuals maintain healthy levels of hormones.
Taking products containing Cistanche can delay aging; as a matter of fact, research shows that this natural plant has anti-aging effects that promote healthy skin and brain.
Aging is inevitable, and some of its signs can affect your self-esteem. Fortunately, there are several ways you can control this process by living a healthy lifestyle, eating well, and using anti-aging products that contain potent natural based ingredients. By following these tips, you will be able to regain a healthy social life without worrying about aging.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758349/
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2016.00289/full
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7146365/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25266053/
http://perspectivesinmedicine.cshlp.org/content/8/7/a029694.full
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17951030/
10 warning signs of dementia and how to address them
Dementia is a devastating disease that can ruin your life and the lives of those around you. It is crucial to know the signs and symptoms of dementia to treat it. The 2018 Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey revealed that 8.5% of those aged 60 years and above have the risk of having a mental illness. (Institute for Public Health, 2018)
There are different types of dementia, but they all boil down to the general loss of memory. It's an illness that causes the brain cells to deteriorate and die faster than normal. The two most common types of illness are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. (Dementia | Under Stand Together, n.d.)
Life expectancy has an impact on conditions such as cognitive decline and dementia. It is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that is on the rise globally. Because its cause is unknown, it's difficult to find a proper and exact cure. Identifying risk factors will assist in predicting and preventing the severe stage of mental sickness in many people with the problem. (Dementia | Under Stand Together, n.d.) The following are 10 of the most common warning signs of dementia.
The good news is that you can take steps to reduce the effects of dementia, even if you cannot prevent it entirely. Although more research is needed, you might benefit from these few tips:
You can also visit Beehive2u.com for more on brain supplement products for healthy living.
References
Dementia | Under Stand Together. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.understandtogether.ie: https://www.understandtogether.ie/about-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/
Institute for Public Health. (2018). Mental Health. In N. I. Health, The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018: Elderly Health (pp. 20-21). Shah Alam: Institute for Public Health.
Livewell. (2020, August 18). Livewell. Retrieved from Livewell.care: 2020
Renee Gadwa, M. (2017, June 15). Michigan Health. Retrieved from www.healthblog.uofmhealth.org: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/brain-health/5-ways-to-protect-your-memory-from-dementia
Yaw, D. (n.d.). Homage. Retrieved from www.homage.com: https://www.homage.com.my/health/dementia-101/
All About Brain Aneurysms
A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning that forms in the brain's blood vessels due to weakness in the wall of the blood vessels. As the blood flows through the weakened blood vessel, its pressure leads to bulging outwards of a small area, making it look like a balloon. Unless the bulging blood vessels rupture and leak blood, they often exhibit no symptoms.
However, if the aneurysm bursts open, it can be life-threatening hence require emergency medical attention. That's because ruptured aneurysms lead to bleeding in the brain, causing a serious condition called a subarachnoid hemorrhage which can be fatal since it often leads to traumatic brain injuries and even death.
Though unruptured brain aneurysms rarely bring about symptoms unless they burst open, intense headaches are the most common signs.
Other symptoms include:
A ruptured aneurysm is an emergency condition characterized by a sudden agonizing headache results in blinding pain, often described as a thunderclap headache.
People experiencing this headache describe it as the worst pain ever experienced before.
Other symptoms include:
Clinicians can carry out several imaging tests and scans to determine the presence or absence of brain aneurysms. The scans and tests aim to establish cerebral aneurysms' location, shape, and size.
The tests include:
Medical studies and researchers haven't discovered the main causes of brain aneurysms. The reasons why they develop are unknown, but that doesn't negate their serious consequences.
A general increase in blood pressure is dangerous as it pushes hard on the blood vessel walls and weakens them. High blood pressure could result from anger outbursts, continued stress, and heavy or vigorous physical activities.
While high blood pressure (hypertension) and cigarette smoking are the major factors contributing to the risk of developing brain aneurysms, other factors include:
The most effective way to prevent or reduce the risks of brain aneurysms is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The following can help:
Though most brain aneurysms do not rupture, treatment is usually recommended if physicians estimate they have a high chance of rupturing in the future. Treatment usually depends on the size of the aneurysm, its position, vascular anatomy, the age of the affected person, family history, and any other threatening medical condition present.
If the risk of rupture is low, the healthcare provider may recommend regular checkups to monitor it. Treatment may also include medication prescriptions to relieve blood pressure.
On the other hand, treating ruptured aneurysms (3) involves stopping blood flow towards it. The procedure may include:
As long as the brain aneurysm is unruptured, you can live your entire life peacefully with no idea that you have an aneurysm. However, some aneurysms can rupture due to various factors, leaking blood into the subarachnoid space and the brain tissue. That ends up causing a hemorrhage stroke.
A ruptured aneurysm is life-threatening, making it crucial that you get emergency medical attention. Delay in seeking emergency help increases the chances of disability or even death. The earlier you seek medical attention, the higher your chances of surviving.
Approximately 60% (2) of those with ruptured brain aneurysm survive. However, approximately 66 percent of the survivors may have permanent neurological defects. Someone with a small unruptured aneurysm may have a better prognosis than someone who suffers a ruptured aneurysm.
Most individuals with unruptured brain aneurysms lead normal lives throughout and may have no symptoms. But you can't say the same for a ruptured aneurysm.
When you have a ruptured brain aneurysm, your prognosis largely depends on:
A cerebral aneurysm may leave you with permanent neurological damage, such as problems with speech and memory. Fortunately, recovery with no risk of disability is possible after treatment, taking anywhere between several weeks to months. However, periodic medical checkups are crucial to rule out any new aneurysm or re-rupture risk.
A ruptured brain aneurysm is a serious medical emergency. If you have symptoms of stroke or brain bleeding, you should call 911 immediately. It's crucial to identify and manage brain aneurysms as early as possible while observing healthy lifestyles and eating habits. Research is currently underway to know the actual causes of subarachnoid hemorrhage and lower the risk and burden of neurological diseases.
There currently exists no way to cure Alzheimer's. There are however medications that exist that can slow or ease symptoms of the disease. Research is still ongoing into the disease, and will hopefully lead to more effective treatments in the future.
References Used
Symptoms of ruptured and unruptured brain aneurysms (1), survival rate of brain aneurysms (2), Treatment of brain aneurysms (3)
What's the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer's?
Most assume that Dementia is an illness in and of itself, however, this common misconception is incorrect. Dementia is a group of symptoms and is only diagnosed when enough of the criteria are met.
The symptoms generally associated with dementia are directly related to your cognitive ability, your ability to think. These symptoms can affect a wide variety of your abilities and can impair your function in everyday life.
Issues with the memory center of your brain can cause confusion during everyday tasks and make it difficult to remember important information. Your ability to communicate properly can also be affected, causing you to slur your words or have trouble remembering the meaning of words.
The parts of your brain responsible for both vision and spatial recognition can also be impacted by this condition. This can cause a variety of symptoms, like blurred vision, things seeming darker, or tunnel vision. Your spatial recognition, which is your ability to recognize objects or paths in relation to other rooms or objects, can become degraded. If you've ever had a loved one afflicted with the condition, you might remember them becoming lost and not knowing where they were, this is due to impairment of their spatial recognition. This also makes driving a near impossibility, as your ability to perceive distance is greatly reduced.
Another symptom of dementia, sudden personality change, can lead to you or a loved one acting very differently than their usual self. This could come in the form of rapid mood swings, agitation, or inappropriate behaviors. Depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders can also occur in someone suffering from dementia.
Having just one of these symptoms is not necessarily indicative of dementia, as we've all forgotten where we put our keys or had trouble finding the right words, but for those who have a large amount, or all of these symptoms, a doctor should be able to make that determination for you.
Dementia also has a lot of different causes, traumatic brain injuries, thyroid disorders, dehydration, drug use, and even infections have been linked to the development of dementia. The most common cause of dementia, however, is Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's Disease is the most common cause of dementia around the world. It's a neurodegenerative disease, which means that as the disease progresses, it slowly degrades pathways in the brain, causing abnormalities in its function.
While the disease most commonly occurs in those aged 65 or older, it can occur at any age. When a person younger than 65 is afflicted by the condition, this is known as early-onset Alzheimer's.
The symptoms of Alzheimer's are essentially the same as that of dementia, as Alzheimer's is the leading cause of it. One major difference, however, is that skills that were practiced regularly or learned early on remain for a longer period. This is due to the fact that these skills are located in parts of the brain that are affected much later during the course of the disease.
There are several theories as to how Alzheimer's disease causes degeneration of structures in the brain, but the consensus is that either amyloid plaques or misfolded tau proteins limit blood flow and block nutrients to neurons, causing them to atrophy. This results in an enhanced rate of degradation in the important centers of the brain. Chronic inflammation and the resulting vascular constriction are also thought to play a role in this.
There currently exists no way to cure Alzheimer's. There are however medications that exist that can slow or ease symptoms of the disease. Research is still ongoing into the disease, and will hopefully lead to more effective treatments in the future.
While there is no surefire way to prevent Alzheimer's, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of getting the disease later on in life. Chief among these changes is leading a more active lifestyle. Adding exercise to your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to either prevent the disease or slow the progression of it in those who already have it. Other important factors are getting a balanced diet and getting plenty of rest at night. These lifestyle changes combined with Morlite(Cistanche Tubulosa Extract) have also been shown to help with memory loss and preserve other key cognitive functions.
References Used:
Alzheimer’s Association: “What is Dementia?” ( https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia ) and “Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease: What is the Difference?” ( https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s ),
Harvard Health “What can you do to avoid Alzheimer’s disease?” ( https://www.health.harvard.edu/alzheimers-and-dementia/what-can-you-do-to-avoid-alzheimers-disease ),
The Mayo Clinic “Overview of Alzheimer’s disease” ( https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447 )
Caring for a Loved One With Dementia
Once you find out that someone close to you has been diagnosed with dementia, you may feel your whole life has changed. Some questions are starting to form in your mind. How do you take care of your loved one? What about your job? What if you can't handle it? Where are they going to live? Slow down and take some time to process the information. Look at each question and ask the doctor if you don't know what to do. If you're looking for answers, there are steps you can take to ensure your loved one is being cared for.
Take your loved one out for walks multiple times a day. While the two of you are on your walks, point out things in the area. Don't forget to mention what they are to your loved ones and have them repeat it back to you. People with dementia often forget things. A lot of times they don't know where they are. When you say the words, it will also help them with their speech. If they are at the beginning stages of dementia, saying things may prevent a speech delay.
Walking will also prevent your loved one from napping all day. One nap a day will be good enough for them. If they are sleeping all day, they will be awake all night. Ensure they are on a schedule, so their days and nights are not getting mixed up. If they are up all night, you won't get any sleep either because you'll have to watch them all night.
If your routine involves watching television with dinner, you'll need to change that. Turn the TV off and have conversations with them. Dementia patients will have trouble focusing if they are paying more attention to what's on TV. Talk to them about anything to keep their attention on you. Ask them if they remember a memory from when you were a kid. If you have children, have them tell their grandparents a story. It could be about anything, such as what they did at school that day, or an activity you planned together.
People with dementia can't drive because they will forget where they are or where they're going. You will have to take them where they need to go, including their doctor's appointments. The doctors will subscribe medication for your loved one to take at home. Make sure to familiarize yourself with their medication schedule because you have to remind them to take their pills and help them. It's also good to monitor them after they're on their medication for a while. Make sure to keep a journal of any changes and report those to their doctor.
When they take a bath or shower, make sure it's at the same time every day. Most dementia patients will be afraid to ask for help because they're uncomfortable undressing in front of you. You can purchase a handle to put in your shower to make it easy for them to get in and get out by themselves. Their privacy will be respected, and you can be outside the door so you can hear them yell for help. You can also remind them to go to the bathroom and brush their teeth. Never tell them how often they should perform a self-care routine. That can end in an argument. Take the time to encourage them to take a bath or shower, brush their teeth, and go to the bathroom.
You should always make sure the doors are always locked. Check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working. Keep everything that has to do with fire away from them. Always keep everything out of their path, so they don't fall. If you have stairs, ensure that you are with them at all times to help them up and down the stairs. You could also create a safe living environment for them downstairs, so they don't have an excuse to go to your second floor. They will still try to go up the stairs because people with dementia do a lot of wandering without having a plan for where they're going.
Caring for your family member with dementia may sound like a lot, but it is a full-time job. Most people commit to quitting their job and taking care of their loved ones in their homes while other people decide to move them into a care facility. That way some people can look after them all day and all night. It's also good to have patience when caring for your loved one. Don't let your frustrations get the best of you. Always remember that their doctor is there for you for support and if you have any questions.
References Used:
Mayo Clinic staff (2021). Alzheimer's and dementia care: Tips for daily tasks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers-caregiver/art-20047577.
Joseph V. Campellone, MD, Department of Neurology (2021). Dementia - Home care: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007428.htm
Department of Health (2014). Dementia - hygiene. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-hygiene.
The flow of blood through the brain, also known as cerebral circulation, is critical for normal brain function. As blood flows through the brain, it supplies the brain cells with oxygen and essential nutrients while at the same time taking with it toxins and other forms of waste.
Despite being only 2% of the human body's weight, the brain uses up more oxygen than any other part of the body, as 20% of the oxygen we breathe goes to the brain. Studies also show that the brain requires 15% of the total cardiac output to function.
Human brain mapping research has brought forth exciting news that brain cells don't age as fast as it was believed before. According to these findings, it is the blood vessels supplying the brain and neurons that age faster.
For this reason, if you wish to lead a long, mentally healthy life, you need to take care of your blood vessels. By maintaining healthy blood vessels, you can overcome certain mental illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease and memory loss. Moreover, you reduce the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cardiovascular disease, among others. In conclusion, sufficient blood supply to the brain improves cognitive abilities and mental performance.
The brain obtains blood from two main arteries: the left and right vertebral arteries and the right and left carotid arteries. The four arteries connect at the base of the brain, forming a circle known as the circle of Willis. From this circle, smaller blood vessels branch out to other parts of the brain.
Carotid arteries are found in the front of the neck, just under the jaw. The carotid arteries branch near the top of the neck into internal arteries going into the skull and external arteries that supply the face. Vertebral arteries form alongside the vertebral column. As they near the brain stem, these arteries join to form a single basilar artery.
The brain also has different veins called venous sinuses, which carry blood containing waste from the brain. The interchange of nutrients and waste products occurs across the brain-blood barrier, which protects the brain.
Whenever the brain doesn't receive the needed oxygen, it suffers from low oxygen and glucose levels, which can result in:
Cerebral edema; the condition can occur from restriction in blood flow to the brain. With this condition, fluid accumulates within the cranial cavity, applying pressure on the brain. If this condition is not addressed in time, it can cause severe damages to the brain.
Cerebral hypoxia; occurs when the brain doesn't receive sufficient oxygen. It can result from choking, drowning, anemia, pulmonary disease, high altitude, and suffocation.
Cerebral hemorrhage; results from bleeding within the cranial cavity. This bleeding occurs when blood vessels in the brain weaken or burst from a health condition or head injury. The blood in the cranial cavity applies pressure to the brain and can be fatal if not addressed immediately.
Stroke; occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked due to a blood clot. The tissues in that area of the brain die due to the lack of oxygen and essential nutrients. As a result, specific mental abilities are impaired.
Regardless of age, everyone is at risk of suffering from poor cerebral circulation. However, certain conditions and lifestyles affect brain health. These include excessive drinking of alcohol, smoking, being overweight or obese, diabetes, heart disease or family history of heart disease, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, traumatic stress, brain injury, depression, and hypothyroidism.
As we saw earlier, the brain requires more oxygen than any other body organ. Blood is essential to the brain in the following ways:
If the brain doesn't receive sufficient blood, its cells die, and eventually, the individual parts. However, the damage to the brain depends on the duration and the amount of blood supply and oxygen.
Restricted blood flow to the brain can cause the following symptoms: headaches, memory loss, lightheadedness, dizziness, mental fatigue, and brain fog. Severe cases can result in vertebrobasilar circulatory disorders. It can result from head injuries, stroke, or hardening of blood vessels. The symptoms include:
As provided by Harvard research, other symptoms include cramping in feet and hands, cold nose, feet, and hands, nail infections, and the need for caffeine to maintain brain focus.
Studies show that modern lifestyle factors can affect brain circulation. A sedentary lifestyle that involves sitting in the same position for prolonged periods affects blood circulation and causes health conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure. Studies also show that wearing a tight necktie can reduce cerebral blood flow affecting brain performance.
Substances such as caffeine, smoking also cause plaque to accumulate within blood vessels reducing the blood flow. Being overweight also causes thinning of blood vessels from cholesterol accumulation. Finally, the body's reaction to stress reduces blood flow has adverse effects on your brain health.
There are various ways through which you can improve cerebral blood flow. Assuming a healthy lifestyle by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and doing regular exercise can improve blood flow and boost brain performance. You can also enhance cerebral circulation through diet in the following ways:
If you are looking to boost your brain performance, you can do so using supplements. Supplements known to increase blood flow to the brain include Cistanche Tubulosa, omega-3 EPA/DHA, magnesium, vitamin D, multivitamin, and mineral. Morilite, for instance, is a healthy herbal supplement that helps improve brain health.
Morilite contains 100% Tianlife patented Cistanche Tubulosa extract. It is a healthy herbal supplement that helps improve memory function. It helps in learning by stimulating nerve growth and the production of nitric oxide that works as a retrograde neurotransmitter. It also helps promote blood circulation and the provision of antioxidant support.
Cistanche Tubulosa is a well-known traditional medicine used as a natural supplement that has helped many people boost their brain health. Additionally, it helps reduce cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, and improve reproductive health in men.
To find out more on how you can improve your brain health, visit our website beehive2u.com
Are you a male past middle age? Have you been feeling weak, tired, and experiencing mood swings lately? Do you have little or no interest in sex? Well, these are probably the signs of the onset of andropause or what is commonly known as male menopause. We have compiled this article to share with you more information on this condition. Read on.
According to William Kormos, an Editor in Chief at the Harvard Men’s Health Watch, by age 80, 40 to 50 percent of men have their testosterone levels in the “low” range. This decline in testosterone is what is referred to as andropause or male menopause. You are probably curious to know what causes male menopause, when it starts, how long it lasts, and most importantly, how it can be treated. We will be answering all these questions here.
Male menopause is often triggered by low testosterone. Testosterone is a male hormone or androgen that is produced in the testicles and the adrenal glands. The high concentrations of this hormone are responsible for male characteristics such as body and facial hair, deep voice, muscle strength, strong sexual drive, fat metabolism, production of red blood cells and sperms, and competitive behavior. For an aging male, less testosterone is produced. It is important to note that women also require and produce low levels of testosterone.
A man’s testosterone levels typically peak somewhere between the age of 20 to 30 years. After this time, they will gradually decrease for the rest of his life at a rate of 1-2 percent per year. By age 70 or 80, men’s testosterone levels would have decreased by half. Factors like obesity, poor diet, stress, lack of exercise often result in faster testosterone loss and aggravate andropause symptoms. Menopause for women happens to be a rapid process. However, for andropause, the process is slower and may go unnoticed in some men.
To make the diagnosis of male menopause, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing. To be sure, the doctor may order a series of blood tests that may include checking testosterone levels. To rule out any other medical problems the doctor can perform other diagnostic tests.
The symptoms of andropause may vary from one male to the next, all in all, common symptoms of men going through andropause are:
Men may shy away from speaking about the symptoms of male menopause. This is very risky and could result in low quality of life and other health problems like heart disease or diabetes. Always consult with a specialist in this area to diagnose and get the best treatment for this condition.
Andropause or late-onset hypogonadism is a common disorder that increases in prevalence with advancing age. As men age, they experience declining testosterone levels. Blood tests done in different academic research institutions indicate that men begin to experience low testosterone levels between the ages of 40 and 60. Sometimes, younger men in their late 30s may also experience andropause due to certain health issues.
Male menopause isn’t as clearly defined as female menopause. It, therefore, becomes a challenge to tell how long it lasts. According to an article written by the Centre for Men’s Health, male menopause has no set duration and may come gradually over a period of months or years. If not treated appropriately, male menopause may become long-lasting, damaging a man’s health and well-being.
Other sources indicate that the uncomfortable effects of male menopause can last for 15 to 20 years as the body systematically adjusts to lower testosterone production. Some men may fail to notice this hormonal change completely while others who experience a rapid decline in testosterone levels would feel the discomforts more.
The good news is that the answer to this question is, yes. In the past, people had no choice but to endure many uncomfortable health conditions. Currently, advancements in the medical field have brought forward solutions and treatments that have greatly improved the quality of life.
Here are some of the treatment options and solutions available for andropause:
Testosterone replacement therapy: The same way women choose to undergo hormone replacement therapy to ease the discomforts of menopause, men can also benefit from this. Testosterone replacement therapy may help relieve symptoms such as decreased sex drive, depression, mood swings, and fatigue. However, testosterone therapy comes with a lot of risks and side effects. Your doctor will provide medical advice on everything you need to know about replacing testosterone in your body.
Health supplements: The negative effects of andropause can be so bad affecting one’s quality of life. Luckily, a solution like the all-natural supplement known as Morilite is available for you. Morilite is a supplement that will help you increase your vitality and brain function. It is made from a magical ingredient called “Cistanche Tubulosa” which has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. This natural extract has been proven to provide a remedy for sexual dysfunction, memory loss, aging, fatigue, etc. What’re more Morilite supplements have absolutely no side effects. Find out more about Morilite and Cistanche Tubulosa here.
Lifestyle changes: Changing your lifestyle through regular exercise, reducing stress, and having a balanced diet can offer a lot of relief for the symptoms of andropause. Regular exercises are good at balancing testosterone hormone production. A nutritious diet will help you improve your hormonal health and allow you to feel and perform your best.
We trust that you have been adequately educated on the matters that surround male menopause. You now know what causes it, its symptoms, when it starts, and how long it can last. We are especially glad that you know how to treat it after reading this. It’s always been our wish that you remain healthy, happy, and productive.
Foods That Fight Memory Lost
Do you know that your brain is the command center of your body? Apart from maintaining your lungs' breathing and your heartbeat, it's also in charge of enabling you to move, feel, and think.
As an intensive energy organ, the brain consumes almost 20% of the body's total calories. Therefore, it needs foods rich in energy and nutrients to fuel and maintain its functions.
Nutrients like Omega 3 fatty acids help in building and repairing brain cells. Individuals with a high Omega 3 intake exhibit increased blood supply to the brain and have great thinking and cognitive capacities.
Also, certain foods high in antioxidants such as leafy green vegetables, spinach, and blueberries help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Note that prolonged inflammation and cellular stress are often associated with neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's.
You are what you consume! What you eat daily may impact the health and functioning of your brain, including memory and concentration. Eating a brain-healthy diet helps boost your memory, reduces the chances of neurological diseases, and reduces high blood pressure.
If you have been forgetful lately, it may be due to lack of enough sleep, environmental factors, genetics, or other physical activities. However, there are chances that your memory loss could result from your diet.
Foods rich in whole grains, legumes, fruits, fatty fish, herbs, seeds, vegetables are some foods you can eat to boost your memory and overall health. Recent research suggests that the Mediterranean Diet keeps your brain sharp, helps you have a great cognitive function, and enhances memory.
Did you know that some of your favorite foods may have great negative impacts on your brain and memory and increase your risk of having dementia? Studies and estimates have predicted that approximately 65 million people globally will have dementia by 2030.
Fortunately for you, you can reduce your risk of dementia by cutting off certain foods from your diet. Some of the foods associated with memory loss include sugary foods, refined carbs, red meat, highly processed foods, refined sugars, cheese, vegetable oils, and excessive alcohol.
Before you grab your favorite alcoholic drink or french fries loaded with saturated fats, think about the risk factors they can have in the future.
From time to time, everyone has memory lapses in their lifetime due to distractions, multitasking, stress, or even old age, especially when you get so preoccupied. While it can be a normal occurrence, dealing with poor memory can be disheartening.
If you're wondering how to improve your memory and keep your brain alert, ensure you eat less processed meals and replace them with raw veggies, fruits, fatty fish, and butter. Also, switch sodas, alcohol, and carbonated beverages for freshly made juices, mineral water, and tea.
Focussing on boiled and baked foods other than fried will boost your memory and increase your cognitive health. Also, eliminate refined carbs from your diet and instead incorporate natural sugars found in fresh fruits, honey, and fresh fruit juices. Lastly, ensure that you eat more whole grains, walnuts, avocados, and whole fruits.
When memory lapses begin to disrupt your normal life, it could signify an overlooked disease developing, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Fortunately, certain foods you can include in your daily diet can help you fight memory loss.
In a research published in the Alzheimer's & Dementia journal, specialists and researchers found that the diet to fight memory loss is Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, commonly referred to as Mind diet. The research found that approximately 53% of the individuals who strictly followed it lowered memory loss.
The three most important foods to eat to keep a youthful memory and reduce forgetfulness include; green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate, and whole green grains. However, note that the list of foods that can help fight memory loss is endless. You can always include the different foods in the Mediterranean diet or Mind diet to support your brain health.
These grains are among the most effective foods that help fight dementia and improve brain health. They are rich sources of vitamin E, vitamin B, and healthy fats.
Other brain health foods, nuts, are anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory. They also reduce cardiovascular risks, are good for gut health, and have high flavonoid content that helps promote brain health.
Fish is rich in Vitamin B12, whose absence or low intake may risk mild cognitive impairment.
Includes foods such as Brussels and broccoli full of fiber and vitamin K, besides having anti-inflammatory effects.
Just like olive oil, avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats that help protect your brain.
It's not only energizing but it's also filled with antioxidants and helps boost your brain connectivity.
Eating balanced diets that include brain and memory-boosting foods is good for optimizing cognitive performance and protecting your brain cells. There are many brain-healthy foods you can incorporate into your daily diet to help restore your memory and boost concentration.
Here are some foods to consider:
Whether you want to boost your memory, fight memory loss, restore your memory, or sharpen your concentration and cognitive performance, many healthy brain foods can help keep your brain and memory in check. These foods are essential for keeping you alert and reducing the risk of brain damage.
A good memory depends on a healthy brain and vitality. Apart from incorporating brain health foods in your diet, consider exercising your brain through brain workouts and checking your stress levels.
Finally, reduce or eliminate some brain-damaging foods discussed above for a healthy brain and overall body wellness. You can also visit Beehive2u.com for more on brain supplement products for healthy living.
References Used
Approximately 65 million people globally will have dementia by 2030 (1), Research published in the Alzheimer's & Dementia journal, specialists and researchers found that the diet to fight memory loss is Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (2), Brain health foods (3), Foods that fight memory loss (4).
Memory refers to the process of capturing information from what’s happening in our surroundings, storing that information, and remembering it later.
The human memory can be compared to that of a computer system or a filing cabinet. There are three main types of memory, they include working memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. In this article, we will be looking at the following aspects of human memory in detail:
Have you ever had the experience where you could remember something that happened 20 years ago and totally forgot where you placed something a minute ago?
It may be frustrating to only remember insignificant details and be unable to remember what’s relevant in the present. This situation is what is referred to as memory loss. Memory loss can take the form of short-term or long-term memory loss.
Our short-term memory refers to the ability of our brain to hold small amounts of information, usually what is happening now.
Long-term memory on the other hand refers to the brain’s ability to hold information from the past. Short-term and long-term memory is highly significant to us. The ability to remember things affects how we deal with situations and the people around us.
Several factors can contribute to memory loss. For instance, with advancement in age individuals tend to suffer from short-term memory loss.
They may forget things like where they placed their phone. Moreover, long-term memory loss can be caused by issues like injuries, diseases, or trauma. Individuals suffering from long-term memory loss may forget their past such as wedding anniversaries or people they met long ago.
Here are some of the causes of memory loss:
i. Lack of a good night’s rest: Sleep deprivation hinders the capacity of our brains to think and remember information. It is hard for a sleep-deprived brain to focus, and this affects the ability to remember new things.
Sleep deprivation also makes it difficult for someone to form and remember long-term memories. To boost good memory, it is recommended that you have at least seven hours of good sleep every day. Always take a rest before your brain reaches its capacity limits.
ii. Side effects of medication: Several prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause memory loss. Possible medications that can lead to memory loss are antihistamines, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, sleeping pills, painkillers issued after surgery, or anti-anxiety medications.
Always consult with your doctor or physician to check on the possibility of adjustments that can be made to your medication to protect all the memories you have.
iii. Stress and anxiety: These two have been proven to have adverse effects on human functions. The stress hormone cortisol impairs the brain’s ability to form and recall memories. When stressed, people experience difficulty in creating short-term memories and turning them into long-term memories.
We must formulate ways of reducing our stress and anxiety levels. This will improve our memory storage greatly. Our health and quality of life will benefit too.
iv. Drug abuse, alcohol, and tobacco consumption: Drug abuse is a serious contributor to memory loss and concentration. Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco can also result in loss of short-term memory.
To improve memory storage, doctors advise that we minimize alcohol consumption and avoid high drug dosages.
v. Diseases like Diabetic Neuropathy: Uncontrolled diabetes may increase the risk of experiencing cognitive problems such as memory loss. Diabetic neuropathy is a kind of nerve damage that happens to over 50% of patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Its symptoms are numbness, pain, and a tingling sensation.
Additional symptoms are urinary problems, wasting of muscles in feet and hands, weakness of limbs indigestion, constipation, dizziness, and sexual challenges like impotence. Over time, high blood glucose levels and high levels of fats such as triglycerides resulting from diabetes can damage the nerves. This causes diabetic neuropathy.
The conversion of short-term (primary) memory to long-term (secondary) memory requires the passage of time.
Short-term memory is very brief. Suggestions indicate that short-term memory can hold only seven items at once and last up to a minute.
Short-term memory is highly affected by interference and interruptions. New information or distractions will quickly displace it.
The human memory works like a computer. Information first enters the short-term memory and is held temporarily. Some of this information is then selected by the brain and transferred to long-term memory. This is the science behind primary and secondary memory.
The research argues that working memory and short-term memory may be the same thing. However, differences exist. Working memory refers to the ability to use, manipulate and apply a memory for a period of time.
For instance, the ability to remember the instructions for fixing a puncture is working memory. However, short-term memory only refers to the temporary storage of information or immediate memory like where you’ve placed your car keys.
According to the Baddeley-Hitch model, working memory has two components: the phonological loop where you record auditory information and the place where visual and spatial information is stored.
Dementia is a term used to refer to the condition of progressive memory loss and other aspects of the brain’s capacity to think. In severe cases, dementia can affect a person’s ability to do their normal daily tasks and interact with other people.
It, therefore, becomes imperative for us to find ways to reduce the risks of dementia.
We can significantly reduce our risks of dementia by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, minimizing alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
For residents of Malaysia and Singapore, we have another effective way of reducing the risk of dementia, it’s called Morilite. This is an all-natural supplement that can be taken daily. Morilite not only improves kidney health but also goes a step further to increase memory function and improve cognitive abilities. With Morilite, we can all avert the risk of getting dementia.
Our memories are an important aspect of who we are, yet they deteriorate as we get older. One of the major fears individuals have as they get older is that their decline would be so severe that they will no longer be able to live alone.
The good news is that scientists are learning more and more about our brain's incredible ability to alter and establish new synaptic connections every day, even as we become older. Neuroplasticity is the term for this notion. Scientists have revealed that our memory capacity is not permanent, but rather changeable like plastic, thanks to neuroplasticity research.
You must exercise your brain and take care of your body to fully benefit from neuroplasticity. Some of the most effective strategies for boosting memory are included in this list of 19 tips and tricks.
Muscle strength is similar to memory strength. It gets stronger the more you use it. But you can't expect to develop stronger by lifting the same weight every day. You'll need to keep your mind stimulated at all times. Learning a new skill is a fantastic method to improve your memory capacity.
There are numerous things to select from, but the most important thing is to find something that pushes you out of your comfort zone and requires your complete concentration.
Some instances are as follows:
When you discover a new piece of knowledge, you're more likely to remember it if it's repeated.
The connections we make between neurons are strengthened by repetition. Out loud, repeat what you've heard. Put it in a sentence and see what happens. Make a note of it and read it out loud.
The task, however, does not end there. Simple repetition, according to research, is an inefficient learning method when employed alone. You'll have to sit down again later and deliberately try to recall the material without looking at your notes. It's better to put yourself to the test to see if you can remember the information than to study again and again. Retrieval practice leads to more lasting and meaningful learning experiences.
A well-organized person has an easier time recalling things. Checklists are a useful tool for keeping track of things. Manually writing down your checklist (rather than doing so online) improves your chances of remembering what you've written down.
Inadequate sleep in middle age, according to Harvard Medical School, increases the risk of dementia. Shift work, insomnia, caregiving obligations, worry, and urgent deadlines are just a few of the causes for poor sleep in middle age. Although not all of them are under your control, some of them are. For example, if you only get four to five hours of sleep every night because you work late, you should change your behaviors; otherwise, you risk acquiring dementia by the time you retire!
Blue light from cell phones, televisions, and computers suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). Sleep cycle that isn't well-regulated can have a significant impact on sleep quality.
The neurons in our brain become overworked if we don't get enough sleep and relax. They can no longer coordinate information, making memory retrieval more challenging. Turn off your devices about an hour before night to allow your brain to relax.
Water accounts for the majority of your brain's composition. For the brain and spinal cord, water serves as a shock absorber. It aids in the use of nutrients by the brain cells. As a result, even minor dehydration can be fatal. Mild dehydration has been linked to brain shrinkage and memory problems, according to reliable sources.
Aim for eight to ten glasses of water per day, or more if you're an active person.
Caffeine has been demonstrated to improve memory as well as lower the risk of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
But there's a catch to this one. In excess or late in the day, caffeine consumption can have the opposite effect, impairing sleep in sensitive individuals.
Meditation's health advantages are becoming more widely recognized. Meditation has been shown in studies to increase a variety of cognitive functions, including focus, concentration, memory, and learning. Meditation has been shown to remodel the brain and promote the formation of new connections between brain cells. You can meditate in a variety of methods; figure out which one is best for you.
Getting out into nature is extremely beneficial to our mental and physical well-being. Nature appreciation can even be thought of as a sort of meditation. According to a 2006 study, gardening regularly reduces your risk of dementia by 36%.
Exercising has been demonstrated to help with cognition. It increases the transport of oxygen and nutrients to the body and aids in the formation of new cells in the brain, which are necessary for memory storage. Exercise boosts the number of cells in the hippocampus in particular.
There's no need for the workout to be difficult. Walking, for instance, is a fantastic option.
A 2012 study indicated that just 20 minutes of yoga increased participants' recall speed and accuracy significantly. When compared to aerobic activity, participants fared much better on the tests after yoga. However, the study's small sample size of only 30 young female students hampered its findings.
Diets like the Mediterranean diet, DASH (dietary methods to control hypertension), and MIND (Mediterranean-DASH intervention for the neurodegenerative delay) all have a few things in common. The common benefits are their capacity to increase memory while also lowering the danger of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, “healthy” fats (olive oil, nuts, fish), and lean proteins.
Dark chocolate may sound like a treat, but it may also help a person's memory. According to the findings of a 2011 study, cocoa flavonoids, which are the active components in chocolate, aid brain function.
Dark chocolate eaters outperformed non-chocolate eaters on spatial memory tests. The researchers discovered that cocoa flavonoids enhanced cerebral blood flow.
You've probably heard that laughter is the best medicine, and this is true for the brain, memory, and body. Unlike emotional responses, which are restricted to certain sections of the brain, laughter involves several brain regions.
Listening to jokes and figuring out punch lines also activates brain areas that are important for learning and creativity. “Laughter seems to help people think more broadly and associate more freely,” writes psychologist Daniel Goleman in his book Emotional Intelligence.
Memory loss has been linked to sugar and fat consumption. A recent human study discovered that a diet high in fats and carbohydrates/sugars, which is typical of the Western diet, decreases hippocampus memory.
The study, however, depended on questionnaires and surveys, which may not have been as accurate as they could have been.
A balanced diet has been found in studies to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Other lifestyle modifications to consider include pushing your brain to learn new things and getting regular exercise.
According to studies, keeping strong relationships can assist strengthen memory and prevent memory loss caused by dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Engaging your brain in hard tasks, including physical exercise, stimulates the brain, preventing the development of the protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. Try learning a new language, studying a new subject, or learning to play an instrument.
Chess is a very common example used to demonstrate this method of improving memory. Choose games that promote thought-provoking strategies.
When you're stressed, your body produces cortisol and other stress hormones. Cortisol has been proven to significantly disrupt the memory process in the brain, particularly our ability to retrieve long-term memories. In animal experiments, stress and depression have been proven to shrink the brain.
People who have more fatty tissue have less water than those who have less fatty tissue. People that are overweight have less brain tissue. The more overweight you are, the more your brain shrinks and your memory suffers.
This is a unique approach to keep track of lists. Mnemonic devices can be acronyms (like RICE for remembering first-aid advice for wounded limbs: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) or words (like RICE for remembering first-aid advice for injured limbs: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) (such as the classic "Every good boy does fine" to remember the musical notes E, G, B, D, and F on the lines of the treble clef).
Morilite is a herbal supplement that can be taken regularly. It contains Cistanche tubulosa extracts used to treat “kidney-yang” insufficiency in traditional Chinese medicine. This natural medication not only improves kidney function but has also been shown to boost memory and cognitive performance.
Menopause is typically considered to be a problem reserved solely for the female gender, however, a condition faced by some men challenges this notion. In the medical community, there is some controversy over whether this condition can be called male menopause, due to how it differs from female menopause. let's look at some of the male menopause symptoms also in this article.
Female menopause, as we know it, is an abrupt drop in the estrogen levels of females that usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55 that most women experience. This causes the regular menstrual cycle to become irregular and then stop, and ends the reproductive window of a woman’s life.
Male menopause or late-onset hypogonadism, on the other hand, refers to a condition where a decline in the male hormone testosterone affects men’s sexual and reproductive health.
Unlike female menopause, male menopause does not affect every man beyond a certain age. Furthermore, the drop in testosterone is gradual in male menopause, at a rate of less than two percent a year, whereas estrogen hormone production stops completely when female menopause occurs.
However, testosterone production may be further decreased in some middle-aged men, which greatly affects their quality of life.
Loss of sex drive/decreased motivation in sexual activities, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, and increased body fat are some of the symptoms that affect aging males. Some may also experience loss of body hair, hot flashes, mood swings, irritability, poor concentration, short-term memory, etc.
Decreased testosterone levels affect men’s health on several different levels.
Sexual dysfunction can become a source of frustration and affect self-esteem. Many consider this to be a shameful and embarrassing problem, due to which they hesitate to seek help and the potential risks of the problem are made worse.
The symptoms of male menopause do not necessarily occur due to the lower production of testosterone. High and chronic stress, as well as lifestyle factors such as a poor diet, high alcohol consumption, lack of quantity, and quality of sleep, are causes in some cases. If the symptoms are caused by lifestyle instead of biological factors, then cognitive behavioral therapy or other interventions may help relieve symptoms.
After a blood test is taken to determine testosterone level and declining testosterone levels are found to be the culprit, the patient and doctor may discuss the possibility of undertaking hormone replacement therapy to overcome the problem.
Replacing testosterone can effectively relieve symptoms for some patients. However, this form of therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Replacing testosterone may increase the risk of heart disease or worsen prostate cancer since it can increase the size of cancer cells if they were already present.
Cistanche tubulosa is an ingredient that may be of use for men who are going through symptoms such as lapses in short-term and long-term memory and problems associated with declining testosterone levels in middle and old age.
This ingredient has been found to increase the testosterone levels in the body, which may return sexual vitality and sperm quality to a healthy level. This is imperative to the maintenance of sexual health as well as emotional and behavioral functioning.
Cistanche Tubulosa is found in a parasitic plant in the Xinjian province of China. This plant is grown in a certified pollution-free environment without pesticides and extensive quality control is carried out at every step of the way. Comprehensive trials have isolated the respective ingredient to make it fit for human consumption and animal and human testing has not shown any adverse effects. It can be safely prescribed to patients in the form of MORILITE Capsules.
Morilite encourages hormone regulation, which can relieve symptoms such as erectile dysfunction and infertility, slowing the gradual decline of testosterone.
Low sexual vitality adversely affects the self-esteem and mental health of adult males. When men are incapable of maintaining sexual relations with their wives, this can result in tensions and family problems.
The upkeep of sexual health also ensures a happier and more fulfilled married life. Women who are looking into seeking help for the health of their husbands and their marriage may ask their family physician if these supplements may be a good fit for their husbands.
On top of improving short-term memory and long-term memory function as well as hormone regulation, Morilite has been shown to stimulate nitric oxide production, which helps relieve high blood pressure , improved blood circulation and can help maintain the health of the heart.
The antioxidant ability of this ingredient stimulates anti-aging properties in the skin and prevents damage caused by oxidation in the body. This multifaceted symptom relief improves the overall quality of life, making these supplements a safe and healthy addition to men's lives in their 40s and 50s or beyond.
Parkinson's and Alzheimer's are neurological diseases that result from damage and death of brain cells. They are also irreversible conditions with some common symptoms whereby both conditions involve dementia, hallucinations, delusions, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Despite their similarities, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's affect the brain differently. This article will look at both conditions, symptoms, symptoms, risk factors, and ways to lower these risks.
Alzheimer's disease is among the leading causes of death among the elderly in the United States and other parts of the world. The condition involves an irreversible degeneration of brain cells. It affects the functionality of the individual and eventually death from brain failure. Moreover, the disease interferes with the individual's memory, personality, and cognition ability. The cause of the disease is still unknown. However, some risk factors are associated with the illness, including diabetes, traumatic brain injury, smoking, diet, and other environmental factors. The disease progresses over time as beta-amyloid plaque accumulates between neurons or nerve cells and neurofibrillary tangles.
The condition lowers the levels of vitamins in the brain resulting in memory loss, cognitive challenges, confusion, difficulties in communication, and self-care. Due to the state of the victims with the illness, families have hard time caregiving. Studies are still ongoing to establish the causes and possible cures. The cases are still rising, with 5M Americans currently living with the condition. If no treatment is found, the numbers are expected to triple in the next three decades.
Parkinson's disease, termed as "shaking palsy" by Dr. Parkinson, is a condition that occurs when dopamine-producing nerve cells within the brain starts to malfunction and die. Dopamine is a chemical substance that is involved in the communication between nerve cells. The effects of this are more physical problems than cognitive, and they develop in five stages over a long duration.
The individual shows symptoms of tremor at rest, muscle rigidity, and slow movements(bradykinesia). The individual may also exhibit other signs such as difficulty swallowing, shuffling gait, cramped handwriting, trouble getting out of a chair, quiet speech, and expressionless face. In most cases, the cause of the illness is unknown. However, it is related to poisoning from carbon monoxide, manganese, and some pesticides in other cases. Other causes of Parkinson's disease include complex PD-like neurological disorders, head trauma, and reversible toxic medication effects.
Despite being incurable, with early diagnosis and treatment, patients live productively for many years.
Both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases lead to a decline in cognitive abilities, also called dementia. However, the mental symptoms are less pronounced in persons with Parkinson's disease, and only half of these patients show cognitive decline.
Parkinson's affects a brain area called the subcortical, while in Alzheimer's, the cortical part of the brain is affected. This results in the difference in the patients' symptoms. Persons with Parkinson's experience slow thinking alongside difficulty in physical activity. Also, learning is possible for persons with Parkinson's, which is not the case with Alzheimer's.
Here are some common behavioral symptoms for persons with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases:
Depression: Both cases suffer from depression. However, depression for persons with Parkinson's is more pronounced and also responsive to treatment.
Anxiety: it is also common for patients with both illnesses to suffer from anxiety. The anxiety for both cases is also manageable with medication. However, these medications are also likely to cause side effects.
Psychotic Symptoms: Persons with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's show psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. The cause of this behavior could be delirium resulting from other conditions, medications or infections.
Sleep Disturbances: both illnesses result in sleep problems. Alzheimer's disease causes patients to have interrupted sleep patterns. This is different from Parkinson's, whereby the person has a behavior disorder called rapid eye movement (REM). The behavior is hard to manage since medications can also lead to problems with alertness and memory.
Studies show that Parkinson's disease leads to impairment in physical ability and motor skills. The condition occurs when certain neurotransmitters: dopamine and serotonin, are damaged. The same affects the person's memory and thought process, which becomes more pronounced at the late stages of the disease.
As for Alzheimer's, certain proteins: tangles (tau) and plaques (beta-amyloid), accumulate in the brain cells causing damage and killing the cells. This form of dementia affects memory, thinking, judgment, comprehension, learning capacity, orientation, and language skills. In conclusion, comparing the two conditions, Alzheimer's progresses faster and affects cognitive ability more than motor skills. Important to note also is that not everyone with Parkinson's will develop dementia.
There is no cure for either of the illnesses. However, they are managed with medication, with the management of Parkison's disease being more effective. Nonetheless, research has found some practical ways of reducing the risk through lifestyle.
1. Healthy diet; taking healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, olive oil, fish, and poultry help in maintaining brain health. It also prevents cardiovascular diseases and diabetes that cause brain problems.
2. Physical activity; taking regular exercise helps in improving mental wellbeing and physical health. It also helps maintain healthy levels of cholesterol and reduce the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure. To keep you body healthy, you should at least involve yourself in 30-minute aerobic exercise four days a week.
3. Goodnight sleep; studies show a strong connection between Alzheimer's and insomnia. You should sleep for at least eight hours every night.
4. Controlling stress and hypertension; stress causes hypertension which is a risk factor for these conditions. You should learn ways to manage stress and strictly follow the doctor's prescriptions if you have hypertension.
5. Social interaction; people with healthy relationships with others are less likely to suffer from mental health.
6. Music therapy; listening to music and dancing can help you relax while providing the necessary physical exercise.
7. Mental stimulation; different mental stimulation activities can help exercise the brain, keeping it active. You can try taking up some hobbies such as reading and playing games.
Cistanche Tubulosa & Morilite, are food and dietary supplements that boost brain health by preventing degeneration of brain cells. Cistanche Tubulosa, promotes memory, learning heart health, and blood circulation. It also prevents diabetes by controlling the levels of blood sugar. The properties of Morilite also help protect brain degeneration and improve memory function by increasing nerve growth. It is also an antioxidant stimulating Nitric Oxide production that helps in skin anti-aging and regulation of hormones. Visit www.beehive2u.com and place your order today. These supplements could make a big difference in your old age.