As we age, it’s not uncommon for our memory to start to decline. While this is a natural part of the aging process, there are things we can do to help improve our memory and keep our mind sharp.

One way to do this is by taking memory supplements.

There are a variety of different memory supplements on the market – not all of them are created equal.

In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best memory supplements available and see what makes them effective.

We’ll also give you some tips on how to choose a supplement that’s right for you.

What is the Best Supplement For Your Memory?

There are lots of brain health supplements on the market. Many of these are marketed specifically toward older adults, claiming to sharpen your focus, improve your mental alertness, protect brain cells, boost memory, and more.

But do they actually work?

Brain health supplements – like all other dietary supplements – are not regulated by the FDA^[1]. Therefore, it’s hard to evaluate dietary supplements in a non-biased way.

That said, although dietary supplements that are packaged and sold as such aren’t necessarily regulated by the FDA, there is some science and anecdotal evidence (just look at traditional Chinese medicine to get an idea!) that there are nutrients that do serve as potent brain booster vitamins.

So how do you boost your cognitive function? Consider taking some of these brain supplements to support brain health and improve your mental alertness.

Caffeine

We’ll start with the supplement that everybody loves to hear about – caffeine! That’s right, you’re not imagining it. Your morning cup of Joe doesn’t just make you feel more alert – it also helps ward off cognitive decline.^[2]

As long as coffee doesn’t worsen your sleep or make you jittery, it’s totally fine to indulge in a cup (or three). It’s a stimulant that can provide a burst of energy. Not only that, but it blocks brain receptors for the adenosine chemical, helping to promote energy throughout the day.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is a natural amino acid that can improve your mental performance and boost the health of your brain cells.^[3]

B Vitamins

B vitamins are an essential component in any healthy diet.^[4] They play a strong role in brain health, particularly in developing babies. In fact, this is one of the most important reasons why pregnant women should take a prenatal vitamin – B vitamins, particularly folic acid, can prevent serious neurocognitive birth defects.

Foods like leafy greens and animal protein are high in B vitamins. However, you can also take a supplement to get what your body needs.

There’s not much conclusive research saying that B vitamins can help prevent or treat Alzheimer’s disease – but there’s no harm in taking a supplement to address the symptoms anyway.

Omega-3s

Omega-3s are found in fatty fish like mackerel and salmon along with leafy greens, vegetable oils, and nuts and seeds. The best way to get more omega-3s is to eat more fish, since this is how your body best metabolizes this nutrient.

These nutrients help to build cell membranes in the brain. Not only that, but they have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects as well.^[5]

There are some studies that suggest that people who have the APOE4 gene mutation, which is connected to Alzheimer’s disease, might benefit if they start taking omega-3s early in life.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can combat free radicals.^[6] It is easiest obtained through food sources like seeds, nuts, and vegetable oils, but you can also take a supplement.

Ginseng

Often used with Ginkgo Biloba – an herb we’ll talk about in more detail below – ginseng is a popular supplement that is a powerful brain booster.^[7]

Ginseng is believed to improve brain functions like behavior, mood, and memory. It protects the brain from damage against free radicals.

Ginkgo Biloba

Traditional Chinese medicine has relied on Ginkgo Biloba to support cognitive function for years.

A 2019 study showed that there were positive effects in dementia symptoms when patients took the extract.^[8] However, it’s hard for scientists to draw firm conclusions since other studies have been limited.

In any event, taking Ginkgo Biloba might be a smart way to boost your brain health in general, even if it doesn’t go so far as to “cure” dementia. It improves blood circulation and offers neuroprotective benefits.

Curcumin

The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin is well-known for its powerful antioxidant capabilities.^[9] One study showed that people who took curcumin performed better on memory tasks and had better overall brain health. More studies are needed, though, since this original UCLA study was a bit limited in its scope and extent.

CDP-Choline

This powerful supplement isn’t recognized as a supplement in Europe – it’s actually sold as a prescription drug here.^[10]

There are studies showing that this supplement can improve memory in elderly adults. That includes those who already are suffering from memory problems. Check with your doctor to see if it might be a good choice for you.

What is the Best Over the Counter Medicine for Memory Loss?

In addition to the individual brain supplements listed above, you can also take a multivitamin to enhance memory. Most memory and brain supplements aren’t even sold together as single ingredients (or at least, they’re not marketed specifically for memory and brain health in that way – it’s easy enough to find the individual elements for sale in health stores).

If you plan on taking more than one of the dietary supplements described above, it’s a good idea to check with a doctor to see what the effects of combined supplements are. There can be side effects that are amplified, especially if you’re taking higher doses or if you’re also taking prescription drugs.

Some people assume that these brain health supplements will help ward off diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. While they might be able to help prevent symptoms, you shouldn’t rely on supplementation alone to stay healthy.

Taking a combination supplement is sometimes a good idea, though, as it makes it easier to remember to take all the dietary supplements you need.

Ultimately, it’s best to get the nutrients you need for optimal brain health through a healthy diet. Most people don’t need supplements in order to stay healthy – as long as they eat a healthy diet.

Focus on including whole grains, berries, vegetables, and fish in your diet to support your brain health. Of course, getting regular exercise and sleep (and staying on top of any other medical conditions you might have) is sound advice, too.

Try Memory Supplements to Boost Overall Cognitive Function

Memory supplements are a popular way to try and improve memory, especially as people age. For the most part, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of certain memory supplements, particularly in the treatment of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Nevertheless, many people swear by their memory supplement’s ability to improve recall and protect against cognitive decline.

If you are considering taking a memory supplement, it is important to do your research first and talk to your doctor about any potential interactions or side effects.

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Memory Supplements