You’ll hear a lot about keeping your body fit and healthy. The media and modern science are constantly advising on what’s good to eat and how much exercise people should be doing.
What isn’t discussed as much, though, is one of the most important topics of all: brain health. Just like the body, the brain is subject to life’s stressors, and that can take its toll over time.
While what’s good for the body is generally good for the brain, there has been plenty of research on substances that affect or may affect brain health more directly, and in this article, you’ll learn about four particularly interesting ones.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids
One of the most widely researched supplements so far as brain health goes are omega-3 fatty acids. There are several different types of fatty acids the body utilizes, but omega-3s (namely eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) have been found to improve general mood and help stave off age-related cognitive decline.
The natural way to consume them is through fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, or certain plant-based foods like flaxseed and avocado. They can also be had as fish oil liquids or tablets, and there are vegan alternatives available made from algae.
Creatine
Creatine is a naturally occurring substance found in small amounts in meats. It is most commonly consumed as a sports supplement because of its properties for rapidly replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the body’s primary energy source for maximally intense exercise.
At the same time, creatine has been shown to improve short-term memory function. Just like the muscles, the brain needs ATP to function, and given the fact that creatine provides an immediate reserve of ATP replenishment, it’s thought that supplementation may improve cognitive function.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in nearly all areas of the body. In the brain, it functions to strengthen neuroplasticity and balance the stress response system, with studies linking lower levels to increased rates of anxiety.
It’s found in a wide variety of foods from whole grains to legumes, and if directed by a qualified doctor, can be taken in supplement form.
Dihexa
Dihexa is an interesting substance. It’s a type of oligopeptide drug that has shown promise in clinical trials in combating brain diseases like Alzheimer’s. It may have the potential to create new synaptic pathways, strengthening overall memory and learning capabilities and promoting regeneration.
Dihexa solutions are currently only sold for research purposes, and significantly more research will need to be done before they’re approved for medical use.
Wrapping Up
The brain is the most complex organ in the body, and even with decades of research at their fingertips, scientists still know very little about how it works. That said, hopefully, the above article has provided a little insight into what’s available today for helping keep the brain healthy, and what potential treatments may be available down the road.
Science is constantly evolving, so do your best to keep up with the latest research to see if there are any new strategies you can implement.
