The Causes and Treatment of Memory Loss
Memory Doesn't have to Decline with Age if You Know What Causes It
Nov 28, 2008
To understand what makes a sharp memory, you must first understand what causes memory to decline, then you can take steps to improve it through simple techniques.
Some factors that lead to memory loss and dementia. They are:
A POOR DIET: The brain needs the same nutrients as does the body to stay sharp. Considering that most diets consist of highly refined foods from which essential nutrients have been stripped away, the brain simply cannot function properly. Children who miss breakfast have less ability to pay attention and can't concentrate as well.
DIABETES: High levels of glucose in the blood affects brain functioning as well as damage the heart and kidneys.
HYPERTENSION: In a study conducted in 1998 it was found that high blood pressure leads to mental deterioration.
ENVIRONMENT: The toxins in our food, water supply and the air we breathe lead to decline in memory function. Smoking, drinking habits, stress and the chemicals in some drugs interfere with the normal functioning of the brain that can lead to cognitive decline. Considering the additives in our food, the pollutants we breathe, including the chemicals from smoking, our drinking habits and even the drugs we take, it's no surprise that mental disease affects so many people.
LOW SERUM FOLATE LEVELS: It has been shown that loss of memory in the cerebral cortex is due to low levels of folate..
NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES: A lack of vitamin B-12, omega-3 fatty acids, thiamine and nicotinic acid has been linked to dementia and associated brain impairment.
HYPOTHYROIDISM: The thyroid gland has much to do with memory and an underactive thyroid can lead to memory loss and impairment.
MENOPAUSE: This stage in life is particularly difficult for women as the natural process of ovulation affords protection against some diseases. After menopause women experience some ability to concentrate and memory loss.
LACK OF EXERCISE: The brain needs oxygen as does the rest of the body. Without proper circulation, fatigue and irritability cancels out the ability to remember or solve problems.
So what should you do to keep memory sharp and balanced?
EXERCISE: There's no need to sweat it out at the gym, but any kind of aerobics will get the heart pumping oxygen to the remote regions of the body and the brain. A brisk walk helps improve blood flow. Any activity that gets you moving joints and muscle is good exercise. Gardening, house cleaning and mowing the lawn may not be glamorous activity, but they help feed the brain.
DIET: You've heard it said hundreds of times, but a diet of hamburger, fries and cola simply won't get the brain the nutrients it needs. Eat lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and high fiber breads and cereals. When it comes to fat, olive oil and other mono-unsaturated fats help against age related decline. Antioxidant foods such as is found in spinach and other dark leafy green vegetables and fruits such as berries and tomatoes help to improve memory.
SUPPLEMENTS: Considering that vegetables come from farms whose soil is depleted of vital minerals, taking in vitamins such as C, E, B-6 and B-12 and Beta Caroteen are necessary for brain functioning. Beta Caroteen, for example, is particularly useful for those over 65. Acetyl-l-carnitine delays memory decline and protects against brain deterioration. Nicotinic acid helps both short-term and long term memory. Melatonin and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) helps maintain normal brain functioning.
HERBS: Ginkgo Biloba helps circulation and speeds along oxygen to the brain. Huperzine A is a Chinese medicinal herb used to help against cognitive decline in elderly people who have memory disorders. Other herbs include bacopa monnieri and vinpocetine.
REDUCE YOUR STRESS LEVEL: Stress creates free radicals that damage brain cells. Breathing exercises, prayer and meditation are all ways to help calm those nerves and restore tha natural balance of brain chemicals. Having a positive outlook helps you to better cope with your day and handle those repetitive and nagging problems better.
GET ENOUGH SLEEP: It's a crucial element for health maintenance, but many people simply do not get enough or don't get quality sleep. Waking up tired is guaranteed to keep mental ability below normal levels.
EAT BREAKFAST: Like getting enough sleep, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. The body has fasted during the night and needs the energy from the right foods to start the day in a healthy mode.
KEEP YOUR BRAIN ACTIVE: Driving to work, watching TV and mundane chores do not exercise the brain. Like muscles, the brain needs exercise if it is to stay sharp. Any problem solving activity, whether it's doing crossword puzzles, Sudoku or planning for a wedding or retirement will keep your concentration and reasoning ability sharp and focused.
These are just some of the many ways to improve memory. The mind needs to be fed with the proper nutrition and actively used. There's no need to join the ranks of the poor languishing in nursery and group homes who have lost hope and their memory.
