Bades rating for the brain: choose the best
Section 1: Understanding the work of the brain and the need for nutritional support
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Anatomy and physiology of the brain: the basis of cognitive functions.
- 1.1. A brief overview of the structure of the brain: bark of large hemispheres, subcortical structures (hippocampus, tonsil, thalamus), cerebellum, brain stem. Description of the main departments and their functions.
- 1.2. Neurons and synapses: building blocks of the nervous system. Mechanisms for the transmission of nerve impulses. The role of neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, game, glutamate).
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- Gliya: supporting brain cells. Gliya functions (nutrition, protection, insulation of neurons, regulation of synaptic transmission).
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- 1.4. Blood supply to the brain: the importance of a constant flow of oxygen and nutrients. Hematoencephalic barrier (GEB) and its role in the protection of the brain.
- 1.5. Brain metabolism: a high need for the brain for energy. The main sources of energy for the brain (glucose, ketones). The role of mitochondria in energy exchange.
- 1.6. Cognitive functions: memory (short -term, long -term, working), attention, concentration, thinking (logical, abstract), speech, executive functions. Neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions.
- 1.7. Age -related brain changes: a natural decrease in cognitive functions with age. A change in the structure and function of the brain (reduction of volume, decrease in synapses density, deterioration of blood supply).
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Factors affecting cognitive functions.
- 2.1. Genetics: a hereditary predisposition to certain cognitive abilities and neurodegenerative diseases.
- 2.2. Age: age -related decrease in cognitive functions. Changing the structure and function of the brain.
- 2.3. Life: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, social activity, cognitive stimulation.
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- Stress: the effect of chronic stress on the structure and function of the brain. Increasing the level of cortisol.
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- 2.5. Diseases: neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease), vascular diseases, metabolic disorders (diabetes), depression, anxiety disorders.
- 2.6. Harmful habits: smoking, alcohol abuse, drug use.
- 2.7. Environmental factors: air pollution, heavy metals.
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The role of nutrients in maintaining brain health.
- 3.1. Ezmega-3, omega-6): structural components of cell membranes of the brain. The role in neurotransmission, inflammation and neuroprotection.
- 3.2. B vitamins B: participation in energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis and protecting nerve cells.
- 3.3. Vitamin D: the role in neuroprotection, regulation of the immune system and cognitive functions.
- 3.4. Vitamin E: antioxidant brain protection.
- 3.5. Vitamin C: antioxidant brain protection. The role in the synthesis of collagen.
- 3.6. Minerals (magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium, iodine): participation in neurotransmission, energy exchange and antioxidant protection.
- 3.7. Amino acids (Triptofan, Tyrosin, phenylalanine): neurotransmitter precursors.
- 3.8. Antioxidants (polyphenols, carotenoids): protecting the brain from oxidative stress.
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Nutrient deficiency and its effect on cognitive functions.
- 4.1. Omega-3 fat deficiency: connection with memory deterioration, attention and mood.
- 4.2. B vitamins deficiency: connection with fatigue, irritability, worsening memory and cognitive functions.
- 4.3. Vitamin D deficiency: connection with depression, cognitive disorders and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
- 4.4. Iron deficiency: connection with fatigue, a decrease in concentration of attention and a deterioration in cognitive functions.
- 4.5. Iodine deficiency: connection with impaired cognitive functions, especially in children and pregnant women.
- 4.6. Subclinical deficit: implicit signs of deficiency that can affect cognitive functions.
Section 2: Review of the main ingredients in dietary supplements for the brain
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Nootropics:
- 1.1. Piracetam: The mechanism of action, effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 1.2. Phenotropil (phonsteratsettes): The mechanism of action, the effectiveness in increasing the concentration of attention, improve memory and increase stress resistance, possible side effects.
- 1.3. Cerebrolysin: A peptide preparation, mechanism of action, effectiveness in recovery after stroke and brain injuries, possible side effects.
- 1.4. Noopept: The mechanism of action, effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 1.5. Ginkgo biloba: The mechanism of action (improvement of blood supply to the brain, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects and interaction with drugs.
- 1.6. Gotha Kola (Asian Centella): The mechanism of action (improvement of blood supply to the brain, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 1.7. Bacopa Monnieri (Bakop Monieri): The mechanism of action (improvement of synaptic transmission, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 1.8. GUPERZIN A: The mechanism of action (acetylcholinerase inhibitor), effectiveness in improving memory and cognitive functions, possible side effects.
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Adaptogens:
- 2.1. Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): The mechanism of action (improvement of energy metabolism, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in increasing energy and concentration, possible side effects and interactions with drugs.
- 2.2. Rhodiola pink (Rhodiola rosea): The mechanism of action (improving stress resistance, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in reducing fatigue and improving cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 2.3. Eleutherococcus (Eleutherococcus Senticosus): The mechanism of action (improving stress resistance, immunomodulating properties), efficiency in increasing energy and improving cognitive functions, possible side effects.
- 2.4. Ashwaganda (withania somnifera): The mechanism of action (reduction of the level of cortisol, antioxidant properties), effectiveness in reducing stress and improving cognitive functions, possible side effects.
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Fatty acids (omega-3):
- 3.1. DHA (Docosaexaenoic acid): The role in the structure of the cell membranes of the brain, neurotransmission and neuroprotection. Sources DHA (fish oil, algae).
- 3.2. EPA (eicopascentenoic acid): The role in reducing inflammation and improving mood. EPA sources (fish oil).
- 3.3. The effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids in improving memory, attention, mood and reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
- 3.4. Dosage and form of release (capsules, liquid fish oil).
- 3.5. Criteria for choosing high -quality fish oil (content DHA and EPA, degree of purification, lack of heavy metals).
- 3.6. Possible side effects (fish belching, blood thinning).
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Vitamins and minerals:
- 4.1. B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12): The role in the metabolism of energy, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the protection of nerve cells. Efficiency in improving memory, attention and mood. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.2. Vitamin D: The role in neuroprotection, regulation of the immune system and cognitive functions. Efficiency in improving mood and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.3. Vitamin E: Antioxidant brain protection. The effectiveness in protection against oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.4. Vitamin C: Antioxidant brain protection. The role in the synthesis of collagen. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.5. Magnesium: The role in neurotransmission, energy metabolism and protection of nerve cells. Efficiency in reducing stress and improving sleep. Dosage and form of release (magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium tronate).
- 4.6. Zinc: The role in neurotransmission, the immune system and the protection of nerve cells. Efficiency in improving cognitive functions and moods. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.7. Iron: The role in the transport of oxygen to the brain and energy metabolism. Efficiency in improving the concentration of attention and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.8. Selenium: Antioxidant brain protection. The effectiveness in protection against oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases. Dosage and form of release.
- 4.9. Iodine: The role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are necessary for the normal development and functioning of the brain. Efficiency in improving cognitive functions, especially in children and pregnant women. Dosage and form of release.
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Amino acids:
- 5.1. L-tyrosin: Dopamine and norepinephrine precursor. Efficiency in increasing concentration and motivation. Dosage and form of release.
- 5.2. L-theanine: The amino acid contained in green tea. The mechanism of action (an increase in alpha waves in the brain, relaxation). Efficiency in reducing stress and improving concentration. Dosage and form of release.
- 5.3. 5-HTP (5-hydroxyryptophan): Precursor Serotonin. Efficiency in improving mood and sleep. Dosage and form of release. Cautions with simultaneous admission with antidepressants.
- 5.4. Acetyl-L-carnitine: Participation in the energy metabolism of the brain. Efficiency in improving memory and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
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Other ingredients:
- 6.1. Caffeine: Stimulating effect, increased concentration of attention and energy. Dosage and form of release. Possible side effects (anxiety, insomnia, addiction).
- 6.2. Kholin (Citicoline, Alfa-GFH): Acetylcholine precursor. The role in improving memory and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 6.3. Creatine: The role in the energy metabolism of the brain. Efficiency in improving cognitive functions, especially with intensive mental work. Dosage and form of release.
- 6.4. Phosphateidixine: The component of the cell membranes of the brain. The role in improving memory and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 6.5. PQq (pyrrolochinolinlinhinone): The role in mitochondrial function and neuroprotection. Efficiency in improving memory and cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 6.6. Resveratrol: Antioxidant contained in red wine and grapes. The role in neuroprotection and improvement of cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release.
- 6.7. Curcumin: Antioxidant and anti -inflammatory agent contained in turmeric. The role in neuroprotection and improvement of cognitive functions. Dosage and form of release. The importance of taking piperin to improve bioavailability.
Section 3: Criteria for choosing high -quality dietary supplement for the brain
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Reputation manufacturer:
- 1.1. Study of the history of the company: market time, consumer reviews, quality certificates (GMP, NSF).
- 1.2. The presence of scientific research confirming the effectiveness and safety of products.
- 1.3. Transparency in relation to ingredients and production processes.
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Composition and dosage:
- 2.1. A careful study of the list of ingredients: compliance with the declared components, lack of harmful additives (artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives).
- 2.2. Optimal dosage: compliance with the recommended doses, taking into account individual needs and health status.
- 2.3. Synergetic effect: a combination of ingredients that enhance the action of each other.
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Output form:
- 3.1. Capsules: ease of reception, protection against environmental exposure.
- 3.2. Tablets: accessibility, variety of dosages.
- 3.3. Powders: the possibility of mixing with drinks, flexibility in dosage.
- 3.4. Liquid forms: fast absorption, ease of reception for people with difficulty swallowing.
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Bioavailability:
- 4.1. The form of ingredients: some forms are better absorbed by the body (for example, magnesium citrate or glycinate instead of oxide).
- 4.2. Liposomal technology: Improving the absorption of fat -soluble substances (e.g., curcumin).
- 4.3. A combination with other ingredients: for example, taking curcumin with piperin to increase bioavailability.
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Certification:
- 5.1. GMP (good manufactoring practice): Guarantee of compliance with production and quality control standards.
- 5.2. NSF International: Independent Certification confirming the safety and product quality.
- 5.3. USP (United States Pharmacopeia): compliance with quality requirements, cleanliness and dosage.
- 5.4. Organic Certification: Guarantee of the use of organic ingredients.
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Consumer reviews:
- 6.1. Studying reviews on independent platforms: analysis of positive and negative reviews, identification of general trends.
- 6.2. Accounting for the subjectivity of reviews: individual reactions to additives may vary.
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Price:
- 7.1. The ratio of price and quality: not always the most expensive supplement is the best.
- 7.2. Comparison of prices for similar products of different manufacturers.
- 7.3. Accounting for the cost of admission: some additives require a long time to achieve the effect.
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Consultation with a doctor:
- 8.1. Mandatory consultation with a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially in the presence of chronic diseases or medication.
- 8.2. Determination of individual needs and contraindications.
- 8.3. Monitoring of health status during the use of dietary supplements.
Section 4: Review of specific dietary supplements for the brain (with rating and detailed analysis)
- Important: This section will contain examples of specific dietary supplements available in the market. The rating will be formed on the basis of the above criteria (the manufacturer’s reputation, composition, dosage, form of release, bioavailability, certification, consumer reviews, price).
- Warning: This information is provided exclusively for information purposes and is not a recommendation for use. Before using any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.
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Bad №1: “Brain elevate” from Now Foods.
- 1.1. Composition: Contains a complex of nootropics (Gotu Kola, Ginkgo Biloba), B vitamins, phosphatidylserin.
- 1.2. Dosage: Corresponds to the recommended doses.
- 1.3. Output form: Capsules.
- 1.4. Reputation manufacturer: Now Foods is a well -known manufacturer of dietary supplements with a good reputation.
- 1.5. Certification: GMP.
- 1.6. Consumer reviews: In general, positive reviews note an improvement in memory and concentration.
- 1.7. Price: Average.
- 1.8. Rating: 4.5/5.
- 1.9. Analysis: Good complex dietary supplement to maintain cognitive functions. Contains proven ingredients in adequate dosages.
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Bad №2: “Focus Factor” from Factor Nutrition Labs.
- 2.1. Composition: Contains vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, phosphatidylserin, DMAI, plant extracts.
- 2.2. Dosage: The dosage of some ingredients may be insufficient to achieve a pronounced effect.
- 2.3. Output form: Tablets.
- 2.4. Reputation manufacturer: Factor Nutrition Labs is a manufacturer of dietary supplements, but the reputation requires additional verification.
- 2.5. Certification: Certification information is limited.
- 2.6. Consumer reviews: The reviews are contradictory, some note an improvement in concentration, others are the lack of effect.
- 2.7. Price: High.
- 2.8. Rating: 3/5.
- 2.9. Analysis: A complex dietary supplement with a large number of ingredients, but the dosage of some components may be insufficient. The reputation of the manufacturer requires additional verification.
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BAD # 3: “Alpha Brain” by Onnit.
- 3.1. Composition: Contains L-dean, l-tyrosin, alpha-gfh, Bakop Monieri, Gepperin A.
- 3.2. Dosage: Corresponds to the recommended doses.
- 3.3. Output form: Capsules.
- 3.4. Reputation manufacturer: Onnit is a manufacturer of dietary supplements, popular in certain circles, but the reputation requires additional verification.
- 3.5. Certification: Certification information is limited.
- 3.6. Consumer reviews: The reviews are mostly positive, note an improvement in concentration of attention, memory and clarity of thinking.
- 3.7. Price: High.
- 3.8. Rating: 4/5.
- 3.9. Analysis: It contains interesting nootropic ingredients, but the reputation of the manufacturer and the lack of information about certification require additional verification.
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Bad No. 4: “Neuro Optimizer” by Jarrow Formulas.
- 4.1. Composition: Contains citicolin, phosphatidylserin, acetyl-l-carnitine, l-lutamine, taurin, phosphatidylcholin, alpha-lipoic acid.
- 4.2. Dosage: Corresponds to the recommended doses.
- 4.3. Output form: Capsules.
- 4.4. Reputation manufacturer: Jarrow Formulas is a well -known manufacturer of dietary supplements with a good reputation.
- 4.5. Certification: GMP.
- 4.6. Consumer reviews: In general, positive reviews note an improvement in memory and cognitive functions.
- 4.7. Price: Average.
- 4.8. Rating: 4.5/5.
- 4.9. Analysis: Good complex dietary supplement to maintain cognitive functions. Contains proven ingredients in adequate dosages.
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Bad No. 5: omega-3 fatty acids from Nordic Naturals.
- 5.1. Composition: DHIS niding EPA.
- 5.2. Dosage: It varies depending on the product, it is important to choose a product with sufficient DHA and EPA.
- 5.3. Output form: Capsules, liquid fish oil.
- 5.4. Reputation manufacturer: Nordic Naturals is a well-known manufacturer of omega-3 fatty acids with an excellent reputation.
- 5.5. Certification: Third-party tested for purity and potency.
- 5.6. Consumer reviews: In general, very positive reviews, note the improvement of mood, memory and cognitive functions.
- 5.7. Price: Above average.
- 5.8. Rating: 5/5.
- 5.9. Analysis: High-quality source of omega-3 fatty acids. An important component for maintaining brain health.
Section 5: Practical recommendations for improving cognitive functions without dietary supplements
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Proper nutrition:
- 1.1. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats.
- 1.2. Limiting the consumption of processed products, sugar and saturated fats.
- 1.3. The inclusion in the diet of products useful for the brain: fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), berries (blueberries, strawberries), nuts and seeds, avocados, green tea, dark chocolate.
- 1.4. Maintaining the optimal level of hydration: drink enough water during the day.
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Physical activity:
- 2.1. Regular physical exercises: aerobic loads (running, swimming, walking) and strength training.
- 2.2. Physical activity improves blood supply to the brain, promotes the growth of new neurons and improves cognitive functions.
- 2.3. Recommendations: at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of high intensity of physical activity per week.
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Dream:
- 3.1. Sufficient sleep: 7-9 hours a day.
- 3.2. Compliance with sleep mode: to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- 3.3. Creating favorable conditions for sleeping: a dark, quiet and cool room.
- 3.4. Avoid the use of caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.
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Stress management:
- 4.1. Determination of stress sources and the development of strategies for their management.
- 4.2. Relaxation techniques: meditation, yoga, breathing exercises.
- 4.3. Conducting time in nature.
- 4.4. Hobbies and classes bringing pleasure.
- 4.5. Social activity and communication with loved ones.
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Cognitive stimulation:
- 5.1. Constant training and acquisition of new knowledge.
- 5.2. Reading books, solving puzzles, playing chess, studying foreign languages.
- 5.3. A variety of activities requiring mental stress.
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Social activity:
- 6.1. Maintaining social ties and communication with friends and family.
- 6.2. Participation in social events and volunteers.
- 6.3. Social activity stimulates the brain and reduces the risk of cognitive impairment.
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Refusal of bad habits:
- 7.1. Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol.
- 7.2. These habits negatively affect the function of the brain and increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
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Regular medical examinations:
- 8.1. Control of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
- 8.2. Timely treatment of diseases that can negatively affect the function of the brain (diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease).
Section 6: possible risks and side effects of dietary supplements for the brain
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Interaction with drugs:
- 1.1. Bades can interact with medicines by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
- 1.2. It is especially important to consider interaction with anticoagulants, antidepressants and drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
- 1.3. Be sure to inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements.
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Side effects:
- 2.1. Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, stomach disorder, insomnia, anxiety.
- 2.2. Individual intolerance to individual dietary supplements.
- 2.3. When side effects appear, it is necessary to stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
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Poor product:
- 3.1. In the market of dietary supplements, there is a risk of acquiring low -quality products containing inappropriate ingredients, pollutants or inaccurate dosages.
- 3.2. Therefore, it is important to choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation and quality certificates.
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Excessed expectations:
- 4.1. Bades are not a miraculous tool for improving cognitive functions.
- 4.2. They can be useful as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, but do not replace proper nutrition, physical activity and full sleep.
- 4.3. It is important to have realistic expectations from the reception of dietary supplements.
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The risk of an overdose:
- 5.1. It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage of dietary supplements.
- 5.2. An overdose of some vitamins and minerals can be dangerous to health.
Section 7: Dietary dietary supplements for different age groups and conditions
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Bad for children and adolescents:
- 1.1. Omega-3 fatty acids: important for the development of the brain and improve cognitive functions.
- 1.2. B vitamins B: necessary for energy exchange and normal operation of the nervous system.
- 1.3. Multivitamins: to maintain overall health and provide the body with the necessary nutrients.
- 1.4. Important: before using dietary supplements in children and adolescents, you need to consult a pediatrician.
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Adult dietary supplements (25-50 years old):
- 2.1. Nootropics: to increase the concentration of attention, improve memory and cognitive functions.
- 2.2. Adaptogens: to reduce stress and increase resistance to mental stress.
- 2.3. Antioxidants: to protect the brain from oxidative stress.
- 2.4. Vitamins and minerals: to maintain general health and provide the body with the necessary nutrients.
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Bad for the elderly (over 50):
- 3.1. Omega-3 fatty acids: to maintain brain health and reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
- 3.2. B vitamins B: To maintain energy exchange and normal operation of the nervous system.
- 3.3. Antioxidants: to protect the brain from oxidative stress.
- 3.4. Ginkgo biloba: to improve blood supply to the brain and cognitive functions.
- 3.5. Important: before using dietary supplements, older people need to consult a doctor.
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Bades with increased mental stress:
- 4.1. Nootropics: to increase the concentration of attention, improve memory and cognitive functions.
- 4.2. Adaptogens: to reduce stress and increase resistance to mental stress.
- 4.3. Caffeine: to stimulate mental activity.
- 4.4. L-theanine: To reduce stress and improve concentration.
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Bades when reducing memory and concentration:
- 5.1. Omega-3 fatty acids: to maintain brain health and improve cognitive functions.
- 5.2. Ginkgo biloba: to improve blood supply to the brain and cognitive functions.
- 5.3. Kholin: To maintain the function of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter for memory and learning.
- 5.4. Bakop Monieri: To improve memory and cognitive functions.