Brain health supplements are most often orally ingested with the aim of providing some form of health benefit to the body. Some of the most common ingredients found in these supplements include amino acids, vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and botanicals. Should you feel the need to incorporate brain health supplements into your diet, you will have different options including tablets, pills, capsules, food bars, liquids, and powders to choose from.
Different surveys have shown that supplements have been used widely for brain health, to improve mental clarity, thinking skills, memory, as well as helping with dementia. Many ingredients used in these supplements function differently as they come with unique benefits to the brain.
In fact, the number of bioactive substances found in food go up to 25,000 and all of these work collectively to protect not just your brain but also your whole body.
If you don’t understand the correlation between brain booster ingredients and brain health then read on to find out.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is commonly known for protecting the body from cell damage. In addition, people with dementia also take vitamin E supplements to help reduce its decline. In fact, it has been proven that individuals with diets rich in vitamin E are less vulnerable to having dementia. It is however not very clear if supplementation has the same exact benefits.
Also, while vitamin E supplements are beneficial to the body, it is important to take them moderately. Some of the foods packed with vitamin E are dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, vegetable oils, and seeds, etc.
Vitamin B
There have been different studies to try to understand how vitamins B6, B9, and B12 help with cognitive health. However, there has been little to no evidence of how these vitamins entirely help to prevent dementia or improve cognition, but a lot of people ingest most vitamin B from their diet.
While these are widely available in most foods, some elderly individuals are B12 deficient. The upside is that supplementing this could help not only improve their overall body health but also their brain health. For instance, taking a multivitamin every day could help increase B-12 in the body.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been hyped for years for their massive health benefits. They help with different body functions and are commonly found in fatty fish, flaxseed, walnuts and shellfish, etc. For a long time, omega-3 fatty acids have also been known to be beneficial for heart health. They are a known building block for the brain and have had benefits such as boosting against cognitive decline. Enough levels of omega 3s have also shown to help improve and support blood flow in the brain. Supplementing these might not entirely have the same benefits, but it will have its advantages to the brain.
Other vitamins and minerals
For a lot of products marketed to improve brain health, some of the most common vitamins include A, C, and D. Usually, vitamin D is referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ but a lot of people are not getting enough of it. While there is not enough proof of their link between cognition, memory, and brain health, they have massive benefits for your overall health.
Studies have indicated that many people are prone to becoming deficient in most vitamins with age because of dental issues and absorption. All these are often linked to negative effects to the brain which affect its health. Also, dietary restrictions such as vegan diets can cause vitamin deficiency such as vitamin B12 which affects thinking skills and memory. As such, individuals at risk of nutrient deficiencies could benefit from supplementation.
Takeaway
Brain health supplements, just like any other, have their cons and pros. With a flooded market of dietary supplements purported to improve brain health, you will find a lot of poor quality and ineffective products that also don’t contain the stated ingredients in the packaging. On the good side, there is a selection of legit supplements that will significantly improve your brain health in different ways.
For the best results, it’s important to seek professional help especially if you already have a health condition such as dementia and you are already on other prescribed drugs. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and ginkgo biloba have been proven to have beneficial effects. But also, it is important to pair whatever brain health supplements you are taking with a healthy diet and lifestyle. This way, you will be able to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health and well-being.
