Let’s face it, in this day and age, every one of us could benefit with some extra brain power. The world moves fast and we need to be able to keep up, information is all around us and we are bombarded by new information every single day. Sometimes, you might find yourself lacking clarity, losing focus, having brain fog or maybe even some memory loss. Lets explore some of the available supplementation habits to improve brain function.
Well, first of all, if you think it could be something bigger, get yourself checked by a doctor, but if not, here’s a list of supplements that you can help improve your brain function.
Creatine
Surprised? We all know how amazing creatine when it comes to building muscle and improving recovery but you’ll be glad to know that it’s not just the muscles that benefit from creatine. Since creatine helps to supply more energy to our cells in the body, the brain cells also get affected. Scientists have found that taking just 5grams a day (creatine monohydrate) helps to significantly improve brain power, memory and attention span. Talk about two birds with one stone!
Vitamin D
I recently had my blood test and it showed that I was lacking in vitamin D. My doctor wasn’t so surprised, he told me that just about every one of us these days is deficient in this sunshine vitamin. Why? Well, because barely any of us spends enough time in the sun! That explains my recent lack of mental clarity!
Vitamin D has the ability to improve memory and fight depression. It is an essential vitamin that plays a great role in hormonal output and it is crucial that we get enough of it. Aim for at least 1,000IUs a day from the Cholecalciferol variety.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s can be found in supplements such as flax seed oil and fish oil as well as in fatty foods such as, walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds and grass-fed beef. Some of us might already be taking these for our muscle building and recovery goals but they are also a great asset when it comes to improving brain function. Various studies have shown that Omega-3s can reduce cognitive decline, fight Alzheimer’s, increase brain output and improve memory recall. Aim for at least 2-3grams of combined EPA and DHA per day.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
This is one of the few supplements that has a direct impact on brain cells and also has the rare ability to penetrate and protect the blood-brain barrier from foreign substances. ALCAR also helps to normalize energy production within the brain cells as well as helps them regenerate. Various studies have shown that it improves cognitive function and improves memory function. It has also shown many anti-ageing and anti-oxidative benefits.