We often think of our brain as being different from other organs, but the brain undergoes changes over time, just like the heart. Up until recently, brain aging and everything that goes along with it was associated with neuron failure. Actually, brain neurons do not undergo massive die-off with age. Although some neurons are lost, the brain continues to grow new ones, though at a slower pace. Decreasing cognitive function is now believed to start as early as one's late thirties, which is the result of a lowered vascular function for oxygen and nutrient supply, increased oxidative stress, and decreased production of neurotransmitters. Other issues impact memory too such as normal aging, emotional trauma, alcoholism, depression, seizures, dementias, stroke, neurodegenerative illnesses, and obesity. All of these can lead to devastating changes in mood and memory. Additionally, it is widely known that the use of cholesterol-lowering drugs can severely impact skills that involve brain functions.

Researchers believe that losing one's memory is not a requirement of aging. The human brain is like skeletal muscle: the more you exercise the mind the more efficient it becomes. Additionally, providing the mind with the right nutrients and protective antioxidants is absolutely necessary. For many years, Gingko biloba was the most well known dietary supplement for increasing cognitive function. Although a lot of physiological functions have been suggested, the improved blood microcirculation is the most important benefit of gingko. Gingko contains a number of beneficial plant compounds called flavonoids which support enhanced blood flow to the brain. This increased circulation helps combat a lot of the age-related memory issues that occur.

Gingko extract positively enhances short-term memory, sociability, mood and thinking ability. The herb also offers antioxidant benefits that can protect brain cells from free radical damage. Other compounds that have proved them selves to have benefits include phosphatidylserine. This phospholipid plays a critical role in maintaining optimal mental performance. Acetyl L-carnitine supports the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is a key compound that is needed for brain and nerve function. Acetylcholine facilitates memory function and learning and also influences emotions. It also has been shown to be a highly valuable antioxidant and supports the health of brain cells. Studies have found curcumin to potently protect brain cells from damage. Curcumin is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects and its antioxidant ability. Further antioxidant protection can be found in a diet full of fruits and vegetables.

Few, if any, nutrients have been proven truly effect in fighting Alzheimer's disease. However, phosphatidylserine can help individuals with noticeable memory loss and it is 100 percent safe. Anyone with any degree of memory impairment should take this supplement for at least a few months to see what degree of improvement can be experienced. It has also been found that people with a regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids from seafood do not develop Alzheimer's disease to the same extent as those who do not eat fish. Supplementing with the DHA can help to reduce the risk of and/or improve memory loss.

It's never too late to start thinking about how you can support and maintain healthy cognitive function. Since free radical damage is a major factor in reduced cognitive ability, supporting the health of the neurons and enhancing our antioxidant capacity to fight the effects of free radical damage can have beneficial effects on people of any age. It is crucial for us to focus on nutritional factors that can support our thinking ability over the long-term as we age.