Top Supplements for the Brain

As one of the most complex body tissues, the human brain is very high maintenance.

Some Natural supplements claim to boost memory, motivation, creativity alertness and cognitive function

Dietary supplements such as vitamins do nothing to boost brain health and are a waste of money, experts have said: “At present there is little evidence that these supplements help healthy people, and that they could even pose a risk to health”

“There is no convincing evidence to recommend dietary supplements for brain health in adults,” they write. “Supplements have not been demonstrated to delay the onset of dementia, nor can they prevent, treat or reverse Alzheimer’s disease or other neurological diseases that cause dementia.”

However, the experts also note a lack of certain nutrients, such as vitamins B9 and B12, are linked to problems with cognitive function or brain health, and that supplements might prove useful. 20% of the population is thought to be lacking in vitamin B12.

Supplement #1: B-Complex.

The B vitamins, especially B12 and folate, are very important for brain health and mood, and lower levels are linked to depression.
Folate, along with B12 and B6, helps lower homocysteine. In high levels, homocysteine can damage the brain, and taking a good B-complex has now been shown to slow brain degeneration in Alzheimer’s dementia. If someone suffers from depression or anxiety, optimizing B-vitamin levels can be a great first step.

Supplement #2: Nitric Balance:

A combination product, Nitric Balance is a liquid supplement combining herbals that increase blood flow and mitochondrial energy in the body, as well as the brain. Just a few teaspoons can stimulate nitric oxide production, the molecule involved in blood vessel dilation. Expect a boost in your cognitive and exercise performance after taking this one.

Supplement #3: Vitamin D.

If someone suffers from a poor mood, getting the blood level of vitamin D up can help a lot. Vitamin D is really a hormone and can have a powerful effect on brain neurotransmitters and inflammation.

Supplement #4: Fish oil (i.e omega-3s EPA and DHA).

Don’t let doctors lead you to believe it doesn’t work. For those with adequate blood levels of omega-3s, fish oil likely won’t improve mood. But for those who are deficient in omega-3s, taking a fish oil supplement can be very helpful. Note that DHA is the preferred omega-3 for the brain.

Supplement #5: Magnesium.

It is known for its soothing properties such as helping to relieve anxiety, migraines, and supporting good sleep. Like the B vitamins, it is also involved in some neurotransmitter production and can help counter the effects of toxic high levels of excitatory substances like glutamate. Note that in the hospital, intravenous magnesium is often given to relieve an intractable migraine. Magnesium is a mineral that many people are deficient in.

Supplement #6: Zinc.

Being involved in over 300 different enzymatic reactions in the body, zinc is important for a healthy immune system, wound healing, and taste and smell. Large quantities can be found in the brain where it is involved in proper neurotransmitter regulation. Studies show that women suffering from depression tend to be low in this mineral. A simple taste test or a blood test can pick up a deficiency.