Last updated on April 17th, 2024 at 09:58 am
Do you remember your wedding, first kiss, the birth of a child or an amazing afternoon spent with loved ones? Our brains help us remember where we’ve been, who we are, and what we’ve done. Those priceless memories are at risk with so many cognitive diseases in our world such as dementia and alzheimers. Whether you’re young or old taking action against cognitive decline before it starts is crucial and memory support supplements are here to help.
Every June we recognize Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. To support this cause, we have put together a list of our favorite brain and memory support supplements. These products are designed to help you and your loved ones maintain healthy brain function and hold on to precious memories and moments for a lifetime. Keep reading to learn more.
Memory Support Supplements
Omega 3 & Fish Oil Supplements
Research suggests that omega 3 fatty acids are vital for the maintenance of normal brain function throughout life. They are abundant in the cell membranes of brain cells, preserving cell membrane health and facilitating communication between brain cells.1,2,3 Many memory support supplements also contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, which are also found in cold water fish, plant and nut oils, and walnuts.
DHA is a particularly beneficial omega-3 fatty acid with a wealth of benefits. Research suggests it may reduce the risk of heart disease, reduce the risk of pre-term births, help with ADHD, lower blood pressure and support circulation amongst other things.4 Nordic Naturals ProDHA Memory contains pharmaceutical-grade omega-3 fish oil rich in DHA, as well as optimized curcumin, phosphatidylcholine, and huperzine A. Nordic Naturals Omega Focus Junior is a great formula for the brain health of kids.
Huperzine A
Huperzine A is a dietary supplement made from the Chinese club moss Huperzia Serrata, which shows promise in the treatment of memory decline. As a natural cholinesterase inhibitor, Huperzine A is may help increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Early research shows that it may slow the progression of memory decline and support cognitive function in patients. 5
Ceriva from Metganics is a synergistic combination of nutrients specially designed to help produce the acetylcholine needed to support healthy memory recall. Rich in huperzine A and a protein-rich polypeptide complex made from colostrum, this product may help support normal brain function. Memories with Seanol-P by Progressive Labs is also an excellent product that contains Huperzine.
Ginkgo Biloba
Harvested from the ginkgo biloba linne tree, ginkgo biloba is an ancient remedy that has been widely researched and used in memory support supplements. Medical research suggests that ginkgo biloba extract may assist in stabilizing and improving cognitive and social functioning.
Memory Pro from Pure Encapsulations is a comprehensive memory support formula. It promotes neuron health, cognitive function, and memory. It contains ginkgo biloba, acetyl-l-carnitine, curcumin, lemon balm and other ingredients designed to support memory and cognition.
Asian Ginseng (Panax)
Ginseng root has been used for thousands of years as a natural medicine. Korean red ginseng, or panax, shows promise when used to support healthy cognition and memory function. Ginsenosides are the active compounds in panax, which provide the herb’s main benefit for brain health. Ginseng and ginsenosides have also been studied and shown promising for their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits.6
Vitamin E
Studies show that increasing vitamin E intake can slow the progression of memory loss. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant, which may help slow the oxidative stress in the brain that leads to cognitive impairment and memory loss.
Curcumin
Curcumin is found in turmeric and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in the brain and throughout the body. In the past scientists believed neurons could not multiply after early childhood. Thankfully now they know that isn’t the case. Neurons are capable of forming new connections, and in certain areas of the brain they can multiply and increase in number which is great news.
One of the main drivers of this process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This is a gene that’s involved in making a protein responsible for promoting the life of neurons. Many common brain disorders have been linked to decreased levels of BDNF protein, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease. A few studies have found that curcumin may increase brain levels of BDNF. 7
Curcumin 400x by Nutridyn has 800mg of BioCurc which is a patented extract that is better absorbed by the body as most regular curcumin is not easily absorbed.
Memory Supplements Reviews
It can be hard to find real memory supplement reviews. The reviews you see on Simply Nutrients are from real customers that purchased the product. You view them by clicking on the stars shown beneath each product listing.
NOTHING IN THIS WEBSITE IS INTENDED AS, OR SHOULD BE CONSTRUED AS, MEDICAL ADVICE. ANY HEALTHCARE AND/OR NUTRITIONAL MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS WEBSITE IS FOR CONSUMER INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. SUCH MATERIAL IS NOT INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE FOR CONDITIONS OR TREATMENT, NOR IS IT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR A MEDICAL EXAMINATION BY A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. CONSUMERS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS FOR INDIVIDUAL MEDICAL RECOMMENDATIONS.
References
- Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and the brain: a review of the independent and shared effects of EPA, DPA and DHA
- Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Memory Functions in Healthy Older Adults
- Kidd, P. M. (2007). Omega-3 DHA and EPA for cognition, behavior, and mood: clinical findings and structural-functional synergies with cell membrane phospholipids. Alternative medicine review, 12(3), 207.
- 12 Health Benefits of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
- Huperzine A: Can it treat Alzheimer’s?
- Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial
- 10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
- 4 Best Supplements For Bloating And a Healthy Gut - June 7, 2024
- 4 Best Green Powders for Bloating From Our Experts - May 31, 2024
- Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements for True Health Enthusiasts - May 9, 2024