TOP dietary supplement to improve memory in adults
Content:
- Introduction to the world of nootropics and cognitive amplifiers
- We understand the types of memory: from short -term to long -term
- Factors affecting memory: lifestyle, food and health
- Overview of key dietary supplements to improve memory:
- Kholin and its derivatives (alpha-gfh, CDP cholin)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
- B vitamins B (B1, B6, B12)
- Ginkgo biloba
- Bakopa Monyeri
- Rodila is pink
- Curcumin
- Phospatidix
- L-carnitin
- Creatine
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (Alcar)
- GUperzin a
- Vitamin D.
- Magnesium (L-Treonate of magnesium)
- Piracetam (requires a doctor’s consultation!)
- Noopept (requires a doctor’s consultation!)
- Phenylpiracetam (requires a doctor’s consultation!)
- Dietary supplies mechanisms: how do they affect the brain
- Scientific research and evidence of effectiveness
- How to choose the right dietary supplement: criteria and recommendations
- Dosage and reception schemes: we observe safety and efficiency
- Side effects and contraindications: what you need to know
- Interaction with drugs: Be careful
- Combination of dietary supplements for synergistic effect: Best combinations
- The role of nutrition in improving memory: products for the brain
- Exercises for the brain: we train memory and attention
- Life and memory: sleep, stress and physical activity
- Questions and answers about dietary supplements for memory
- Myths and misconceptions about nootropics
- The future of nootropics: new developments and prospects
- Legal aspects: what you need to know about the purchase and use of dietary supplements
- Reviews and personal experience: share our impressions
- Useful resources: sites, books and experts
1. Introduction to the world of nootropics and cognitive amplifiers
The term «nootropes» covers a wide range of substances that are believed to improve cognitive functions, especially memory, training and attention. Initially, nootropics were developed for the treatment of cognitive disorders associated with age -related changes or diseases. However, in recent years, they have gained popularity among healthy people seeking to increase their mental performance. It is important to understand that not all substances positioned as nootropics have a sufficient scientific base confirming their effectiveness and safety. In this article, we will focus on those dietary supplements (biologically active additives) that have a certain level of evidence and are widely used to improve memory in adults. Cognitive amplifiers are a broader concept that includes not only nootropics, but also other methods aimed at improving cognitive functions, such as changing lifestyle, brain training and using technologies. Consideration of dietary supplements as tools for improving memory requires a balanced approach that includes risks and advantages assessment, consultation with a specialist and compliance with recommended dosages.
2. We understand the types of memory: from short -term to long -term
Memory is a complex and multifaceted process that includes several different types, each of which plays a role in our ability to perceive, store and reproduce information. Understanding various types of memory is necessary for choosing the most suitable dietary supplements and strategies to improve it.
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Sensory memory: This is the shortest type of memory that holds information from the senses for a split second. It allows us, for example, to see a trace of a rapidly moving object or hear an echo of sound.
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Short -term memory (KVP) or RAM: This type of memory holds the information for a short period of time, usually from a few seconds to a minute. It allows us to temporarily store the information necessary for the performance of current tasks, such as memorizing the phone number or holding a sequence of steps in the head to solve the problem. RAM, in particular, is responsible for manipulating information in KVP.
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Long -term memory (FEP): This type of memory allows you to store information for an indefinite period. DVP is divided into several subtypes:
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Explicit (declarative) memory: This is the memory of the facts and events that we can consciously recall and express in words. It is divided into:
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Episodic memory: The memory of personal experiences and events associated with a certain time and place (for example, memories of the first day at school).
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Semantic memory: The memory of general knowledge and facts (for example, knowledge of the capital of France or historical events).
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Implicit (procedural) memory): This is the memory of the skills and habits that we perform automatically, without conscious recalling (for example, riding a bicycle or playing a musical instrument). It also includes priming (the unconscious influence of previous experience on current perception) and classical determination.
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Improving memory requires an integrated approach aimed at supporting all types of memory. Some dietary supplements can be more effective for improving short -term memory, while others can improve long -term memory.
3. Factors affecting memory: lifestyle, food and health
Memory is not just a function of the brain, but the result of a complex interaction of many factors, including lifestyle, nutrition and general health. Factors such as stress, lack of sleep, malnutrition, chronic diseases and drinking alcohol and drugs can have a negative effect on memory.
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Life:
- Dream: The lack of sleep negatively affects the consolidation of memory (the process of transferring information from short -term memory to long -term). It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
- Stress: Chronic stress can damage the hippocampus, the area of the brain that is responsible for the formation of new memories. It is necessary to learn how to cope with stress using relaxation techniques, meditation or physical exercises.
- Physical activity: Regular physical exercises improve blood circulation in the brain and stimulate the growth of new neurons. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises at least 30 minutes a day, several times a week.
- Social interaction: Active social interaction stimulates the brain and helps maintain cognitive functions.
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Nutrition:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Important to brain and memory health. Contained in fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), linen seed and walnuts.
- Antioxidants: Protect the brain from damage to free radicals. Contained in berries, fruits, vegetables and green tea.
- B vitamins B: Important for the normal operation of the nervous system and cognitive functions. Contained in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products and whole grains.
- Avoid: Excessive sugar consumption, processed foods and trans fats.
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Health:
- Chronic diseases: Diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s disease, can negatively affect memory.
- Medication: Some drugs can cause side effects, such as a deterioration in memory and attention. Consult a doctor if you suspect your medicine affect your memory.
- Deficiency of vitamins and minerals: The deficiency of vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron and other nutrients can negatively affect cognitive functions.
Before proceeding with the receipt of dietary supplements to improve memory, it is necessary to optimize your lifestyle and nutrition. Dietary supplements can be a useful addition, but they will not replace a healthy lifestyle.
4. Overview of key dietary supplements to improve memory:
A detailed review of the most popular and studied dietary supplements used to improve memory and cognitive functions is presented. It is important to remember that the effectiveness and safety of each dietary supplement can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body and dosage.
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Kholin and its derivatives (alpha-gfh, CDP-choline):
- The mechanism of action: Kholin is the predecessor of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, who plays an important role in teaching, memory and attention. Alfa-CFH and CDP choline are choline forms that penetrate the hematoencephalic barrier easier, providing more effective choline delivery to the brain.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for people with an age -related worsening of memory or Alzheimer’s disease.
- Dosage: Alfa-gg: 300-600 mg per day. CDP choline: 250-1000 mg per day.
- Side effects: Rarely, but may include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
- Peculiarities: It is best to take with other nootropes, such as Racetama, to enhance their effect.
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Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA):
- The mechanism of action: EPA and DHA are indispensable fatty acids, which are important components of cell membranes in the brain. They improve the structure and function of the brain, reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy transmission of nerve impulses.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, mood and general cognitive health. It can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
- Dosage: 1000-3000 mg per day containing at least 500 mg EPA and DHA.
- Side effects: Usually it is well tolerated, but in high doses it can cause stomach disorder, fish taste in the mouth and liquefaction of blood.
- Peculiarities: It is important to choose high -quality additives that have undergone cleaning of heavy metals and other pollutants.
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B vitamins B (B1, B6, B12):
- The mechanism of action: B vitamins play an important role in the energy metabolism of the brain, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the protection of nerve cells. B vitamins deficiency can lead to a deterioration in memory, attention and mood.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, mood and reducing the risk of dementia. Vitamin B12 is especially important for the health of the nervous system and cognitive functions.
- Dosage: Depends on the specific vitamin and individual needs. It is recommended to take a complex of B vitamins B.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but in high doses can cause stomach disorder and other side effects.
- Peculiarities: It is important to take group B vitamins in an active form (for example, methylcobalamin for vitamin B12) for better absorption.
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Ginkgo biloba:
- The mechanism of action: Ginkgo biloba improves blood circulation in the brain, has an antioxidant effect and protects the nerve cells from damage.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
- Dosage: 120-240 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause stomach disorder, headache and dizziness. It is not recommended to be taken with anticoagulants.
- Peculiarities: It is important to choose standardized extracts containing at least 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% of terpenic lactons.
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Bakopa Monyeri:
- The mechanism of action: Bakop Monieri is an Ayurvedic plant that improves memory, training and cognitive function as a whole. It increases blood flow to the brain, has an antioxidant effect and protects the nerve cells from damage. It also promotes neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons).
- Advantages: Improving memory, training, attention and cognitive function in general. It can be useful for students engaged in mental work, and people with an age -related worsening memory.
- Dosage: 300-600 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause stomach disorder, dry mouth and fatigue.
- Peculiarities: The effect is manifested gradually, so it is recommended to take Monieri Bakop for several weeks or months to achieve maximum results.
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Rodiola pink:
- The mechanism of action: Rhodiola pink is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress. It improves mental and physical performance, reduces fatigue and increases concentration.
- Advantages: Improving attention, concentration, memory and decreased fatigue. It can be useful for people experiencing stress and mental strain.
- Dosage: 100-400 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause insomnia, irritability and headache.
- Peculiarities: It is recommended to take in the morning or day so as not to break the dream.
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Curcumin:
- The mechanism of action: Kurkumin is an active component of turmeric with powerful antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. It improves the cognitive function, protects the nerve cells from damage and can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
- Dosage: 500-2000 mg per day containing at least 95% of turmeric.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but in high doses can cause stomach disorder.
- Peculiarities: Kurkumin is poorly absorbed, so it is recommended to take it with piperin (black pepper extract) or liposomal forms of turmeric to improve bioavailability.
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Phosphateidixine:
- The mechanism of action: Phosphatidylserin is phospholipid, which is an important component of cell membranes in the brain. It improves the structure and function of the brain, supports a healthy transmission of nervous impulses and reduces stress.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, training and cognitive function in general. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease and ADHD.
- Dosage: 100-300 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: Usually it is well tolerated, but in high doses can cause insomnia and stomach disorder.
- Peculiarities: It is important to choose high -quality additives obtained from soy or sunflower.
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L-Carnitin:
- The mechanism of action: L-carnitine helps to transfer fatty acids to mitochondria, where they are used to produce energy. It improves energy metabolism in the brain, protects nerve cells from damage and can improve cognitive function.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, chronic fatigue and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Dosage: 500-2000 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause a stomach disorder, nausea and vomiting.
- Peculiarities: There are various forms of L-carnitine, such as acetyl-L-carnitine (Alcar), which can be more effective for improving cognitive functions.
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Creatine:
- The mechanism of action: Creatine improves energy metabolism in the brain, increasing the availability of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main source of energy for cells.
- Advantages: Improving short -term memory, attention and cognitive function, especially in conditions of mental strain. It can be useful for vegetarians and vegans, which usually have a lower level of creatine in the body.
- Dosage: 3-5 g per day.
- Side effects: It can cause a delay in water in the body and a stomach disorder.
- Peculiarities: It is important to use a sufficient amount of water when taking creatine.
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Acetyl-L-carnitine (Alcar):
- The mechanism of action: Alcar is a form of L-carnitine, which penetrates more easily through a hematoencephalic barrier. It improves energy metabolism in the brain, protects nerve cells from damage and can improve cognitive function. Also increases the level of acetylcholine.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, training and cognitive function in general. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease, depression and syndrome of attention deficit and hyperactivity (ADHD).
- Dosage: 500-2000 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause insomnia, irritability and disorder of the stomach.
- Peculiarities: It is recommended to take in the morning or day so as not to break the dream.
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GUPERZIN A:
- The mechanism of action: Gepperin A is an inhibitor of acetylcholinerosis, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. Increasing the level of acetylcholine in the brain, Gepernine and can improve memory, training and cognitive function as a whole.
- Advantages: Improving memory, learning and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders.
- Dosage: 50-200 mcg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and increased salivation.
- Peculiarities: It is not recommended to take for a long time, as this can lead to tolerance and a decrease in efficiency. It is recommended to take breaks in the reception.
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Vitamin D:
- The mechanism of action: Vitamin D plays an important role in the development and functioning of the brain. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a deterioration in cognitive function, depression and an increased risk of dementia.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, mood and reducing the risk of dementia.
- Dosage: Depends on the level of vitamin D in the blood. It is recommended to take a blood test and consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage.
- Side effects: In high doses, it can cause nausea, vomiting and an increased level of calcium in the blood.
- Peculiarities: It is best absorbed with fatty foods.
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Magnesium (L-Treonate Magnesium):
- The mechanism of action: Magnesium plays an important role in the functioning of the brain, including synaptic plasticity (the ability of neurons to form new connections). Magnesium L-Treonate is a form of magnesium, which penetrates better through a hematoencephalic barrier.
- Advantages: Improving memory, learning and cognitive function as a whole. It can be useful for people with anxiety, depression and insomnia.
- Dosage: 144 mg per day (magnesium L-Treon, containing 11 mg of elementary magnesium on the capsule; usually take 3 capsules per day).
- Side effects: It can cause a stomach disorder.
- Peculiarities: It is not recommended to be taken simultaneously with calcium.
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Piracetam (requires a doctor’s consultation!):
- The mechanism of action: Piracetam is one of the first nootropics developed in the 1960s. Its exact mechanism of action has not been fully studied, but it is believed that it improves blood circulation in the brain, enhances the transmission of nerve impulses and protects the nerve cells from damage.
- Advantages: Improving memory, training, attention and cognitive function in general. It can be useful for people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease, dyslexia and other cognitive disorders.
- Dosage: 1200-4800 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause irritability, insomnia, headache and stomach disorder.
- Peculiarities: Piracetam is a drug and requires a doctor’s consultation before use. It is not recommended to use without a doctor’s prescription. Efficiency can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body.
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Noopept (requires a doctor’s consultation!):
- The mechanism of action: Noopept is a peptide nootropic that improves memory, training and cognitive function as a whole. It increases the level of the neurotrophic factor of the brain (BDNF) and nerves growth factor (NGF), which play an important role in the growth and survival of nerve cells.
- Advantages: Improving memory, training, attention and cognitive function in general. It can be useful for people with age -related worsening memory, anxiety and depression.
- Dosage: 10-30 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause irritability, insomnia, headache and increased fatigue.
- Peculiarities: Noopept is not registered as a drug in many countries, including the United States and the EU, and its use requires a doctor’s consultation. It is not recommended to use without a doctor’s prescription. Efficiency can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body.
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Phenylpiracetam (requires a doctor’s consultation!):
- The mechanism of action: Phenylpiracetam is a derivative of piracetam, which has a more pronounced stimulating effect. It improves memory, attention, motivation and physical performance.
- Advantages: Improving memory, attention, motivation and physical performance. It can be useful for people experiencing mental and physical strain.
- Dosage: 100-600 mg per day, divided into several tricks.
- Side effects: It can cause irritability, insomnia, headache and anxiety.
- Peculiarities: Phenylpiracetams are not registered as a drug in many countries, including the USA and the EU, and its use requires a doctor’s consultation. It is not recommended to use without a doctor’s prescription. It can cause tolerance and dependence with prolonged use. It is recommended to take breaks in the reception.
Attention! Before taking any dietary supplements, especially piracetam, noopepte and phenylpiracetam, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines or have contraindications.
5. Mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements: how they affect the brain
Bades to improve memory have their own exposure to the brain in various ways. Understanding these mechanisms helps to choose the most suitable dietary supplement for a specific purpose and individual needs. The main action mechanisms include:
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Improving blood circulation in the brain: Some dietary supplements, such as ginkgo bilobe, improve blood circulation in the brain, providing the flow of more oxygen and nutrients to nerve cells. This improves their function and increases cognitive performance.
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Protection of nerve cells from damage: Antioxidants, such as curcumin and vitamin E, protect the nerve cells from damage to free radicals, which can lead to a deterioration in memory and cognitive functions.
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Increasing the level of neurotransmitters: Some dietary supplements, such as choline and its derivatives (alfa-gg, CDP cholin), as well as Gepers, increase the level of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, which plays an important role in learning and memory.
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Improving energy metabolism in the brain: Some dietary supplements, such as L-carnitine and creatine, improve energy metabolism in the brain, providing nerve cells with energy necessary for normal functioning.
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Neurogenesis stimulation: Some dietary supplements, such as Monieri Bakop, stimulate neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) in the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for the formation of new memories.
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Reducing inflammation in the brain: Chronic inflammation in the brain can lead to a deterioration in cognitive function. Some dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin, have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce inflammation in the brain.
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Stress regulation: Adaptogens, such as Rodiola Pink, help the body cope with stress, which can negatively affect memory and cognitive functions.
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Improving synaptic plasticity: Sinaptic plasticity is the ability of neurons to form new connections and adapt to changes. Some dietary supplements, such as magnesium (L-Treonate of magnesium), improve synaptic plasticity, which helps improve training and memory.
6. Scientific research and evidence of effectiveness
The effectiveness of dietary supplement to improve memory is a topic that requires critical analysis and assessment based on scientific research. It is important to distinguish marketing statements from the results of conscientious clinical trials. Many dietary supplements discussed above were the subject of research, but the results are often ambiguous and depend on the methodology of research, dosage, duration of admission and individual characteristics of participants.
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Kholin and its derivatives: Studies show that alpha-gg and CDP choline can improve cognitive functions in people with Alzheimer’s disease and age-related memory deterioration. However, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of healthy people.
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Omega-3 fatty acids: Numerous studies confirm that omega-3 fatty acids are useful for brain health and cognitive functions. They can improve memory, attention and reduce the risk of dementia.
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B vitamins B: The deficiency of group B vitamins is associated with the deterioration of cognitive function. Studies show that taking B vitamins can improve memory and attention in people with a deficiency of these vitamins.
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Ginkgo biloba: Some studies show that ginkgo bilobe can improve memory and cognitive functions in people with age -related memory and Alzheimer’s disease. However, other studies do not confirm these results.
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Bakopa Monyeri: Studies confirm that Monieri Bakop can improve memory, training and cognitive functions in healthy people and people with an age -related worsening memory.
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Rodiola pink: Studies show that Rodiola pink can improve mental and physical performance, reduce fatigue and increase concentration.
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Curcumin: Studies show that curcumin can improve cognitive function, protect nerve cells from damage and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Phosphateidixine: Some studies show that phosphatidylserin can improve memory, attention, training and cognitive functions in people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease and ADHD.
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L-Carnitin: Studies show that L-carnitine can improve memory, attention and cognitive functions in people with age-related memory, chronic fatigue and Alzheimer’s disease.
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Creatine: Studies show that creatine can improve short -term memory, attention and cognitive function, especially in conditions of mental strain.
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Acetyl-L-carnitine (Alcar): Studies show that Alcar can improve memory, attention, training and cognitive functions in people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease, depression and ADHD.
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GUPERZIN A: Studies show that Gepersin and can improve memory, training and cognitive functions in people with age -related memory, Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive impairment.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with the deterioration of cognitive function. Studies show that vitamin D intake can improve memory, attention, mood and reduce the risk of dementia.
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Magnesium (L-Treonate Magnesium): Studies show that Magnesium L-Treonate can improve memory, training and cognitive functions in people with anxiety, depression and insomnia.
When evaluating scientific research, it is important to pay attention to the size of the sample, the design of the study (randomized controlled studies are considered the most reliable), the presence of a control group (placebo), objective assessment methods (for example, cognitive tests), as well as possible conflicts of interests (for example, financing by a dietary supplement by a dietary supplement). The meta-analyzes that combine the results of several studies can provide a more reliable assessment of the effectiveness of the dietary supplement.
7. How to choose the right dietary supplement: criteria and recommendations
The choice of a suitable dietary supplement to improve memory is an individual process that requires the accounting of many factors. There is no universal solution suitable for everyone. The criteria and recommendations presented below will help you make a conscious choice:
- Define your goals: What exactly do you want to improve — memory, attention, concentration, speed of thinking? Different dietary supplements have different effects on cognitive functions.
- Evaluate your lifestyle: The lifestyle plays an important role in brain health. Optimize your sleep, nutrition, physical activity and level of stress before proceeding to receive dietary supplements.
- Learn about possible contraindications and interactions: Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines or have contraindications for certain diseases. Consult a doctor before starting a reception.
- Look for scientific evidence: Choose a ba