 Nature's
Way
with Alan Hayes
Food for the Brain
Have you ever walked into a room and stood wondering why you went in there? When you meet someone for the first time, how well do you remember that person's name?
If you are like a lot of people, you have forgotten it within minutes of meeting the person. Forgetfulness can affect all age groups. Lapses of concentration can account for much of this. Unfortunately there is no magic cure for memory loss.
Fortifying the brain with vitamins, minerals and herbs may help any deterioration and enable those individuals experiencing the beginning of a decline in their cognitive functions to maintain a normal life. Certain vitamins, minerals and micro-nutrients do seem to have a significant effect on the function of the brain: in particular vitamins C and E, thiamine, vitamin B12, pyridoxine, potassium, selenium and zinc. These vitamins and minerals can easily be obtained as supplements, and if taken daily may be beneficial. Vitamin B12, in particular, helps significantly to reduce confusion. It is an important factor in brain function and very important for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet.
The amino acids glutamine and tyrosine will improve concentration, retention and a sense of alertness. Glutamine also helps to reduce a craving for sugar. Lecithin is also an important dietary addition because of its phosphatidyl choline content. This is an essential ingredient of the brain chemical Acetyl Choline, necessary for nerve transmission in your brain. Recent research has confirmed the vital importance of this substance, which is found in granular lecithin, a readily available supplement from health food shops.
To make sure your brain gets enough of the right nutrients, eat foods rich in choline. The main dietary source of choline has been eggs, in particular the yolks, and red meat. However, many people tend to avoid eggs and red meat these days because of the high cholesterol content. If eggs and red meat are a problem for you, include soy products, brewers' yeast. wheat germ and peanuts in your diet. In addition, take a daily dose of one to two tablespoons of granular lecithin.
Herbs such as rosemary and sage are steeped in tradition for improving memory, and both herbs do seem to have the ability to promote the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), an ancient Chinese herb which enjoys a similar reputation, has been credited with helping both short-term memory and slowing of the aging process. Ginkgo supplies the brain with glucose, its principal source of energy. All three herbs can be taken as a herbal tea three to four times daily, or as needed.
Brahmi, a creeping succulent found in India, has now become one of the most sought-after herbs in Australia today because of its reputation as a brain tonic. It is reputed to be especially suitable for students, as it enhances the mind's ability to learn and to focus. Brahmi may also be useful for people who want to improve mental function and concentration particularly under pressure or in stressful conditions.
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