As we age, it’s bound to happen: our memory gets worse. It can seem inevitable that at one point or another, we just can’t remember things like we used to.
Memories are precious to us for a number of reasons. They remind us of happy times, heartwarming times. Some memories are painful but necessary.
That’s what memories are. The good and the bad. Our best days and our worst. They keep us going when the going gets tough.
That’s why so many of us want to keep our memory functioning well. But how can we do that naturally at home?
Research shows that there are a few natural remedies that help with memory loss. Here’s how to keep your memory healthy.
Supplements
One easy and effective way to improve and maintain a good memory is through the use of supplements. There are many of these available, each with its own concoction of brain-healthy ingredients.
Here are some vitamins to be on the lookout for when you’re on the search for a memory pill.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
This is an amino acid that studies suggest can help with Alzheimer’s patient’s memory problems. This is especially helpful to people with early-onset forms of the disease.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are found naturally in many fish, nuts, and oils. They have a strong connection to the lowered likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease.
Fish oil supplements rich in Omega 3 fatty acids can provide an easy way to get this mineral into your body.
Herbs and Spices
Some of the best natural remedies come straight from nature itself. Different herbs and spices are extremely effective at boosting memory in a natural way.
Ginkgo Biloba
The Ginkgo biloba tree’s leaves have been used in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s an antioxidant that may help slow the progression of dementia.
Ginkgo biloba increases the blood flow to the brain.
Some also believe it improves overall cognitive abilities in otherwise healthy individuals.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It clears the brain of a protein fragment that can build up over time. This buildup is known to cause worsening of Alzheimer’s.
Sage
Sage is an herb we frequently use in cooking, but it also has positive effects on brain health. It improves cognitive and neurological function in people.
Ashwagandha
Similar to turmeric, ashwagandha prevents the buildup of harmful proteins in the brain. It also has shown to decrease oxidative stress, which slows the progress of dementia.
Lifestyle Changes
Aside from these products, there are a few basic lifestyle changes you can make to better protect your memory health.
Here are a few of the biggest healthy habits to build.
Drink Less Alcohol
Alcohol is proven to have a long-term negative effect on overall brain function. If you’ve ever drunk a bit too much, you probably know this already.
Limiting your alcohol consumption is a great way to protect your memory long-term.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep can make every health condition better. Seriously. Your body cannot function well if you aren’t getting the sleep that you need, and your brain is no exception to this rule.
When you don’t sleep for long enough, your body and brain don’t get the rest time that they need. This leads to an overall decline in health, including brain function.
Try a Few Out
The great thing about natural remedies is that you can try multiple out at a time. Start small with something like adding a couple of hours to your sleep schedule. Add in some of the herbs and spices mentioned to your diet.
Top it all off with a supplement to improve your memory and you can be sure you’re doing the most you can to keep your brain functioning well.
