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Boost Your Brainpower: The Top Clinically Studied Memory Supplements to Take Daily
Do you often forget names, appointments, or where you left your keys? If so, do you see this as a sign of trouble or just normal memory loss? Is Memory Loss Normal? A recent report found that 1 in 9 American adults experience cognitive decline, which includes confusion and memory loss. While frequent memory lapses or mental fog may be common in your 40s, 50s, and 60s, too often they’re dismissed by medical practitioners as being a normal part of aging. However, memory problems aren’t normal. They’re a sign of potential trouble and should be taken seriously, regardless of your age. Since memory loss doesn’t have to be your destiny, early intervention is crucial to long-term prevention. What Causes Memory Loss? Long before symptoms develop, your brain may already be deteriorating, years or even decades before you realize it. Memory decline can be related to a variety of issues, such as: Unhealthy lifestyle Stress Poor circulation Lack of exercise Being overweight Insufficient Nutrition Lack of sleep Head injuries Fortunately, it’s possible to avoid or alleviate all these issues. In the presymptomatic stage, when memory problems are less severe, help is likely to be most effective. That means no matter how you’ve treated your brain in the past, you can improve your memory over time by taking the right steps to improve your brain and overall health. If you’re experiencing memory loss, even if it seems minor, now is the best time to get serious about the health of your brain. To help put the brakes on brain decline, here are some practical, natural ways to keep your memory sharp… Tips to Keep Your Memory Sharp at Any Age 1. Get Regular Exercise Physical activity is one of the best things you can do to keep your memory sharp and your brain and body healthy. Exercise can help boost blood flow, deliver oxygen and other nutrients to your brain, and may increase your levels of dopamine. Walking at a brisk pace can help clear your mind, improve your mood, and burn some calories all at the same time. 2. Take a Trip Traveling helps the brain by exposing it to new faces and places. Learning the landmarks and geographical features of a new area exercises the brain’s visual-spatial abilities and helps stimulate your memory pathways. In addition to breaking up the sameness of your normal routine, taking a trip can provide a whole new set of experiences, some of which may become cherished memories. 3. Eat Memory-supporting Foods The Standard American Diet (SAD) is filled with foods that can increase your risk for a variety of medical problems. This Western pattern diet is also associated with a smaller hippocampus, one of the major memory structures in the brain. Instead of eating foods saturated with refined carbohydrates and sugar, choose lean proteins, healthy fats, and lots of organic fruits and vegetables. Aim for a diet that consists of mostly plant-based foods with some high-quality proteins and healthy fats mixed in. 4. Engage In Coordination Activities Doing coordinated physical activities – like dancing, tennis, or table tennis – can boost activity in the cerebellum. Though it only accounts for 10 percent of the brain’s total volume, the cerebellum contains about 50 percent of the brain’s neurons, and is involved with both physical and thought coordination. Try to work a coordination activity into your daily routine. 5. Avoid Toxins Smoking, along with drug and alcohol abuse, can increase your risk for serious memory issues. Even a glass of beer or wine per day can be harmful to the brain. Research demonstrates that marijuana can negatively affect the hippocampus. 6. Adopt New Learning Set aside some time every day for new learning. Some examples are learning a new language or musical instrument, trying a new kind of dance or other complex physical activity, or taking up a new hobby like chess or painting. Many maintain that the “use it or lose it” principle applies to the brain. When the brain stops learning it can start fading, so be intentional about learning new things every day. 7. Forge Strong Connections Social connections can significantly affect your brain, mood, memory, and overall well-being. Building and maintaining healthy relationships may help you feel understood and cared for. When you care for others and feel cared for, your brain releases oxytocin, the “bonding” hormone, which can counteract some of the negative effects of stress. The health habits of the people you spend time with can have a dramatic impact on your own health, so surround yourself with people who are happy, upbeat, kind, and who challenge you to be the best version of yourself. Dr. Amen's Favorite Memory Supplements to Take Daily Our memory supplements are based on the latest science and medical data, and are developed by one of the world’s leading brain-health experts, Dr. Daniel Amen. Here's a look at some of BrainMD's best memory supplements... Brain & Memory Power Boost Six of the most highly researched, brain-boosting herbs and nutraceuticals join forces in this advanced, best-selling formula to sharpen your memory and support your cognition, mental clarity, and concentration.* BRIGHT MINDS Memory Multivitamin BRIGHT MINDS Memory Multivitamin is both a complete multivitamin/multimineral AND a powerful memory supplement powder featuring over 30 vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbal concentrates, and nutraceuticals.* NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin Scientifically formulated with 50+ optimally bioavailable nutrients in their best-utilized and most effective forms, NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin is the only daily multivitamin for men and women that delivers comprehensive brain-boosting benefits.* Omega-3 Power/Omega-3 Power Squeeze Highly concentrated fish oil products, Omega-3 Power and Omega-3 Power Squeeze provide 1,600 mg of EPA, DHA and other omega-3s to power your mood, focus, memory, cognition, and heart.* Neuro-PS This phosphatidylserine supplement features high-potency, soy-free phosphatidylserine (PS) for better memory, concentration, and attention at any age.* Remember This Your behavior and habits can either positively or negatively impact how well your brain functions as you get older. The good news is it’s never too late to take better care of your brain. Being mentally and physically active, taking some of the best memory supplements, and avoiding unhealthy habits, can help support your memory. Keeping your brain fit is a great way to support cognition and memory throughout your life. One of the best ways to keep your memory sharp, reduce brain atrophy, and avoid long-term memory problems is to exercise it every day. There will never be a better time to start improving your memory than now, so make your memory a priority today…and every day. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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Why Experts Are Calling Nitric Oxide One Of The Most Important Molecules For Human Health
To kick off the launch of our new Advanced Blood Flow nitric oxide supplement, our Chief Science Officer Nicole Avena, PhD sat down with internationally recognized scientist and nitric oxide expert Dr. Nathan S. Bryan for an illuminating conversation on how nitric oxide can supercharge our health. They discussed the powerful connection between nitric oxide and our brain, how nitric oxide can help regulate blood flow, why experts are calling nitric oxide “one of the most important molecules for human health,” and more. In case you missed the live conversation (watch the recording here!), we rounded up our top 7 takeaways from the event. 7 Takeaways From Dr. Nicole Avena’s Conversation With Nitric Oxide Expert Dr. Nathan S. Bryan What is Nitric Oxide? Nitric oxide is a gas produced endogenously. Once produced, it only survives for less than a second. During that time, it binds to receptors, modifies proteins and enzymes, dilates blood vessels, kills viruses and bacteria, improves oxygen delivery to every organ and tissue in the body, and initiates a number of cell signaling events. Our body must continuously produce nitric oxide to function at its best. Unfortunately, the amount of nitric oxide we produce declines as we get older. By our 40s, we only make about 50% of the nitric oxide we need daily! There Is No Standard Lab Or Blood Test For Determining Nitric Oxide Levels Unlike cholesterol or vitamin D, there is no standard lab or blood test for determining nitric oxide status – because it’s an unstable gas, it’s gone too quickly to measure! To determine if you’re low in nitric oxide, experts look at the symptomatology. Signs you could be nitric oxide deficient include: Sexual dysfunction and low libido Unsafe elevation in blood pressure Cognitive issues Memory problems Low energy levels Decreased stamina Slow recovery times after exercising Endothelial dysfunction Nitric Oxide Is One Of The Most Important Molecules Produced In The Human Body The 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was jointly awarded to North American scientists, Dr. Robert F. Furchgott, Louis J. Ignarro, and Ferid Murad, for their discoveries in relation to nitric oxide as a signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system. Nitric Oxide Is Critical To Brain Health Nitric oxide is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It’s involved in learning, memory, and adult neurogenesis, and is considered a vital vasoactive molecule needed for cerebral blood flow and brain activity. When our nitric oxide levels are low, our brain function can suffer. While The Science Of Nitric Oxide Is Complex, Improving Your Levels Is Simple To improve your nitric oxide levels, stop doing the things that inhibit nitric oxide production and start doing the things that promote it. Dr. Bryan recommends that you: Stop using mouthwash and fluoride toothpaste Stop using antacids Stop eating high-carbohydrate meals Start exercising for 20-30 minutes a day Start eating more green leafy vegetables like arugula and kale Start supplementing with a high-quality nitric oxide product Start getting at least 30 minutes of direct sunlight per day Start drinking good clean filtered water every day (at least 2 quarts per day) Stop Using Mouthwash And Fluoride Toothpaste! Maintaining good oral hygiene is important to your overall health, but mouthwash use has been shown to kill the good nitric oxide producing bacteria, cause your blood pressure to increase, as well as eradicate the benefits of exercise. Fluoride is an antiseptic, neurotoxin, and may disrupt normal thyroid function. According to Dr. Bryan, if you want healthy nitric oxide levels, stop using mouthwash and fluoride. Not All Nitric Oxide Supplements Are Created Equal While a high-quality nitric oxide supplement can restore nitric oxide production, not all nitric oxide supplements are created equal. If you are considering adding a nitric oxide supplement to your nutritional regimen, make sure it’s based in science and medical data, tested for quality, and formulated to target the root cause of circulatory issues in the body. What were your top takeaways from the live event? Comment below! For more science-driven conversations on brain health and wellness, join us on Instagram @brainmdhealth. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients and standardized herbal ingredients to support your overall well-being. For more information about our new Advanced Blood Flow nitric oxide supplement and full list of products, please visit us at BrainMD. About Dr. Nathan S. Bryan: Dr. Bryan earned his undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of Texas at Austin and his doctoral degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine. He pursued his post-doctoral training as a Kirschstein Fellow at Boston University School of Medicine in the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute. After a two-year, post-doctoral fellowship in 2006, Dr. Bryan was recruited to join faculty at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston by Ferid Murad, M.D., Ph.D., 1998 Nobel Laureate in Medicine or Physiology. During his tenure as faculty and independent investigator at UT, his research focused on drug discovery through screening natural product libraries for active compounds. His nine years at UT led to several discoveries which have resulted in over a dozen issued US and international patents and many more pending worldwide. Dr. Bryan has been involved in nitric oxide research for the past 18 years and has made many seminal discoveries in the field. These discoveries and findings have transformed the development of safe and effective functional bioactive natural products in the treatment and prevention of human disease and may provide the basis for new preventive or therapeutic strategies in many chronic diseases. Dr. Bryan has published a number of highly cited papers and authored or edited 5 books. He is an international leader in molecular medicine and nitric oxide biochemistry.
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What's Inside Vegan Omega-3 Power? Learn From Our Formulators About Pure Algae Omega-3s!
CAS BioSciences – our partner in developing Vegan Omega-3 Power – is the gold-standard manufacturer globally for first-in-class and best-in-class botanically derived and omega-3 lipid-derived ingredients. Their research and product development teams are responsible for the development of close to 1,000 naturally-derived ingredients, as well as countless successful finished product formulations that are utilized by major brands spanning the globe. Today, we’re sitting down with prolific Omega‐3 Fatty Acids and chair of CAS BioSciences’ Omega‐3 Fatty Acids Science Initiatives Committee Feng Zhao, PhD, for a masterclass on EPA, DHA, and the importance of omega-3s, and getting an inside look at the revolutionary technology used to make Vegan Omega-3 Power. An Interview With The Formulators Of The World’s Purest Vegan Omega-3 Supplement BrainMD: How long did it take to develop Vegan Omega-3 Power? Dr. Zhao: The PureAlgaeOmega3™ Oil used in this BrainMD®'s Vegan Omega-3 Power is made using a proprietary, solvent-free, low-temperature, singular closed-loop system, that took multiple years to develop and get to commercial scale. The particular grade of PureAlgaeOmega3™ Oil that is used in BrainMD'®s Vegan Omega-3 Power took ~18 months to develop. The actual vegan (non-animal) PlantGel™ softgel shell also took over ~12 months to develop. The final product under BrainMD® Vegan Omega-3 Power was about ~6-7 months from inception to completion. BrainMD: What makes Vegan Omega-3 Power different from other vegan omega supplements? Dr. Zhao: Almost all vegan Omega supplements are either lower potency DHA only - or a 'precursor' to DHA/EPA - ALA only - or some combination thereof, made using a very antiquated process route called "molecular distillation". Very few products contain vegan EPA and DHA, respectively, as their sole basis for the content of Omega-3s. Additionally, BrainMD® Vegan Omega-3 Power gets all of its Omega-3 content from the preferred Triglyceride (TG) form EPA and Triglyceride (TG) form DHA, respectively. The 1,100mg of vegan Omega-3s, per serving, from Triglyceride form EPA/DHA exclusively, makes BrainMD® Vegan Omega-3 Power the highest commercially available product, on a per serving basis, that we are aware of. BrainMD: Why is a high concentration of EPA important? What does EPA do? What does DHA do? Dr. Zhao: The provided primer from US FDA's Office of Dietary Supplements gives a good basic overview, and there's also a wealth of information on Omega-3 Supplements here. BrainMD: Vegan Omega-3 Power utilizes advanced MSET™-Lipid™ technology and low-temperature processing to prevent decomposition and oxidation. Can you tell us a little more about this revolutionary technology and how it works? Dr. Zhao: As noted above, the process is a proprietary, solvent-free, low-temperature, singular closed-loop system, that is predicated on the principals of speed and pressure, among other factors, to separate the complex composition matrix that is present in deep sea-derived marine lipids and allow for concentration of individual Omega-3 Fatty Acids, such as EPA and DHA, respectively, on a weight-to-weight basis and relationship to one another. BrainMD: From a sustainability standpoint, how is Vegan Omega-3 Power setting and exceeding global quality standards? Dr. Zhao: It has virtually zero carbon impact/footprint. The starting algae strain is cultivated on land, in pharma-grade vessels, from cell stock, and doesn't deplete related resources. Couple this with the no solvent, earth-friendly manufacturing process route, and it's easy to see why the same is Aquaculture Stewardship Council CoC Certified for sustainability and environmental factors. BrainMD: Why is Vegan Omega-3 Power a better choice than flax oil, chia seed, hemp, and other plant sources of omega-3s? Dr. Zhao: I'd refer back to previous questions/answers, as well as the US FDA link. Additionally, the noted terrestrial plant sources all contain forms of "Omega-3s" that do NOT include EPA and DHA, respectively. It's globally recognized that EPA and DHA are the primary and most important Omega-3 Fatty Acids. BrainMD: Is vegan omega-3 better than fish oil? Dr. Zhao: It's not 'better' or 'worse' from a technical perspective; what it is is a way for those that don't want animal/fish product as part of their diet to experience the benefits of EPA and DHA, respectively, which is highly important for overall health and wellness, as demonstrated over many decades of important research work product. Additionally, PureAlgaeOmega3™ provides a source of EPA and DHA that is free of the environmental toxins and pollutants often associated with fish-derived Omega-3s. BrainMD: Why is it smart to take a high-quality omega-3 supplement daily? Dr. Zhao: Again, I'd refer back to previous questions/answers, as well as the provided US FDA link, as to why EPA and DHA, respectively, can be highly contributory to overall health and wellness. Thank you, Dr. Zhao! Is there a question we haven’t answered? Please share it in the comments. About Feng Zhao, PhD: Dr. Zhao is an Associate Professor, Institute of Nutrition and Health, Qingdao University, and prolific Omega‐3 Fatty Acids researcher, globally. In addition, Dr. Zhao is Director of International Society of Omega‐3 Research (ISOR), organizing committee member of International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids (ISSFAL), Director of the Nutrition and Food Branch of the Chinese Society of Gerontology and Geriatrics. Dr. Zhao received his PhD in Bioinformatics at University of Chicago, and received his Postdoctoral in Lipid Research at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Zhao is a protégé of Artemis P. Simopoulos, M.D., Founder and President of the Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health, and former Chair of the Nutrition Coordination Committee at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), among other posts. Dr. Zhao chairs CAS BioSciences’ Omega‐3 Fatty Acids Science Initiatives Committee, and serves as a special advisor directly to the Executive Chairman of CAS BioSciences, among other interests. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients and standardized herbal ingredients to support your overall well-being. For more information about Vegan Omega-3 Power and our full list of supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
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Here Are Some of the Top Reasons to Avoid Forever Chemicals
Whether you realize it or not, you’re constantly being exposed to toxins. Dangers of Toxins Every day, you’re subjected to a host of chemicals, pesticides, fumes, and personal products that can be damaging to the brain and body. Common toxins can be absorbed through the skin (when you rub in a cream, for example), ingested (when you eat or drink), or inhaled (when you breathe). Toxins can have a negative effect on practically every part of the body. Your biological systems eliminate toxins (through enzyme processing mainly by the liver, kidneys, and skin), but when those natural detoxification processes are overwhelmed, major problems can develop. Toxic effects on the brain include: poor memory and concentration erratic behavior word confusion mood issues headaches cravings Where Toxins Hide Out Here are some examples of where you can find toxins in your house. Beauty Products The average American woman uses about 12 personal care and cosmetic products daily. The average man uses about 6. Many of these products contain toxic substances. Cleaning Supplies As with personal care products, many cleaning supplies are filled with toxins. Use an app like Think Dirty to identify toxic products and purge them from your bathroom and kitchen. Mold Mold and fungi thrive on drywall, wood, and other soft materials and flourishes in dark and moist environments. A small drip from a leaky toilet, shower, or sink is all it takes to create a major mold problem. Substances Toxic brain exposure, from smoking or alcohol/drug abuse, is linked to accelerated mental decline and an increased risk for memory problems. While these toxins are well-known, others are less obvious and can come from unexpected places. Among these hidden toxins are “forever chemicals.” What Are Forever Chemicals? The scientific term for forever chemicals is PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These manmade chemicals are common in consumer products that are grease-, stain-, and water-resistant. This includes non-stick cookware¹ and waterproof clothing. So, why are they called forever chemicals? Because they’re practically indestructible. Unfortunately, these toxins are difficult to avoid since they’re in so many products we use every day. And here’s the really bad news…they’re inside us too. A Brief History of PFAS In 1946, the DuPont manufacturing company introduced the non-stick cookware known as Teflon. Numerous fluorinated chemicals were created based on Teflon, and they were used in a variety of products. A short time later, 3M became the main manufacturer of PFAS products. In 1950, 3M studies confirmed that PFAS could pollute the human blood. By the 60s, joint 3M and DuPont animal studies showed that PFAS were harmful to health. Both companies found a link between PFAS and extreme illness in many of their employees in the 80s. The Teflon chemical was discovered in the drinking water in Parkersburg, West Virginia in 2001. This led to a class-action lawsuit against DuPont, which knew PFAS were hazardous to its workers and the local community. The lawsuit initiated several studies, some of which link Teflon to serious medical conditions. The Problem with PFAS According to one health expert, PFAS are harmful for three main reasons: PFAS are extremely hard to break down in the environment and in our bodies. They’re hard to contain because they move through the environment rapidly. Even low levels of exposure to PFAS can be damaging to our health. As if that isn’t bad enough, many manufacturers choose not to disclose the use of PFAS in their products. How Do PFAS Impact Health? Numerous animal or human studies have linked PFAS to: Reproductive problems Endocrine disruption Weakened childhood immunity Increased cholesterol Low birth weight Severe liver and kidney issues Many independent studies have shown the negative impact of PFAS on people of all ages. PFAS were found in the breast milk, umbilical cord blood or bloodstreams of 98% of participants in a NHANES survey.² Common Items with PFAS Keep an eye out for PFAS in these everyday products: Clothes Be sure to look for PFAS when purchasing shoes, raincoats, yoga pants, and other accessories. Check the labels on stain- or water-repellent clothes, such as Gore-Tex jackets. Food Alarmingly, PFAS have found their way into foods. The chemicals used in many non-stick pans can get into cooked foods. Also, PFAS can find their way into foods via air, soil, and water. Paper and Cardboard PFAS are widely used to coat pizza boxes, fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and many other paper goods to make them grease resistant. Water According to data collected by the Environmental Working Group and Northeastern University, PFAS have been found in the water systems of 43 states. Contamination can come from industrial dumping into rivers or lakes, or the seeping of PFAS into groundwater from trash or landfills. It’s believed that over 200 million Americans have PFAS in their drinking water.³ Furniture and Carpets Stain-resistant furniture and carpets treated with Scotchgard, Stainmaster, or other fabric treatments can contain PFAS. Personal Care Products Some scientists from EWG have discovered PFAS in 66 personal care products from 15 brands. These products include shampoo, shaving cream, and sunscreen. Other Home Goods Many home goods contain PFAS. These include a wide range of items from dental floss to mattress pads to umbrellas. Always check labels for PFAS. Reduce Toxic Exposure The more exposure you have to the everyday toxins mentioned above, the more your chances of developing long-term mental or physical health issues. To minimize your exposure to toxins, it’s a good idea to ditch personal care and cleaning products that contain harmful ingredients. Also, keep an eye out for forever chemicals when purchasing clothes, non-stick pans, and other home goods. Remember, what goes on your body goes in your body, so do everything you can to remove toxins from your life. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Sajid, M., & Ilyas, M. (2017). PTFE-coated non-stick cookware and toxicity concerns: A perspective. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 24(30), 23436–23440. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-017-0095-y 2. Calafat, A. M., Wong, L.-Y., Kuklenyik, Z., Reidy, J. A., & Needham, L. L. (2007). Polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in the U.S. population: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2004 and comparisons with NHANES 1999–2000. Environmental Health Perspectives, 115(11), 1596–1602. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.10598 3. Andrews, D. Q., & Naidenko, O. V. (2020). Population‑wide exposure to per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances from drinking water in the United States. Environmental Science & Technology Letters, 7(12), 931–936. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.estlett.0c00713
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What Are the Best High-Quality Omega-3 Sources?
With strong evidence supporting the positive effects of omega-3s EPA and DHA on the brain, heart and entire body, taking a fish oil supplement daily can have a significant impact on individual wellness. EPA and DHA The omega-3 essential fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are called essential for a reason – our brains need these specific omega-3 essential fatty acids to function optimally. They’re practically vitamins because we have to get most of our daily allowance of them from our diet. Both are fundamental to the structure and functioning of all our cells, particularly our 200 billion brain cells. In a 2017 study, the Amen group and other researchers reported that individuals with higher EPA and DHA levels tended to have higher blood flow to the brain, as measured from SPECT scans. The heart and circulation followed a similar scenario: higher levels of EPA and DHA translated to better overall health. Omega-3 Foods Omega-3 EPA and DHA and certain omega-6 fatty acids are essential for our health, but the modern diet gives us too little of the former and too much of the latter. Most Americans eat a diet light on omega-3 rich foods (fatty cold-water fish, grass-fed meats, and to a lesser extent walnuts and oils of canola and soybeans); and heavy on omega-6 foods (feedlot meats, farmed fish, oils of corn, safflower, sunflower, cottonseed, and peanuts). Even with the most carefully selected diet, it’s difficult to have a healthy balance of omega-3s to omega-6s. Numerous scientific surveys have reported that most American adults aren’t getting enough EPA and DHA in their diet. The daily average runs around 100 mg for kids and 140 mg for adults. The minimum intake recommendations are 500 mg per day, and recent research suggests they should be even higher. Many packaged foods that claim to contain omega-3s may only offer a marginal health benefit. In addition to concerns over the quality of their ingredients, many of these processed foods have minimal amounts of omega-3s. Read the label carefully. Unless it specifically states EPA or DHA, you’re unlikely to get any omega-3 benefit from these foods. Omega-3 Fish Sources Commercially available cold-water fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, are sources of actual, preformed EPA and DHA. Avoid farmed salmon (which are much higher in omega-6s and often carry toxins) and try to get cold-water fish from Alaska or close to the Antarctic, where the ocean waters are the least contaminated. Vegans and vegetarians can take algae-sourced supplements that provide EPA and/or DHA, but these can be expensive. Omega-3 Plant Sources Though plant oils are being promoted as omega-3 sources, land plants don’t make EPA or DHA. The only way for us to get enough of them is through foods or supplements. A few plant foods have omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA), but this has practically no function in our cells and is hard for the body to convert into EPA and DHA. Best estimates are that only about 5 mg of DHA can be made from 1000 mg of ALA. Some people have enzyme mutations that make this conversion process complicated, if not impossible. If you need a natural omega-3 supplement from either a fish source or plant source, we've got you covered... 2 Ultra-Pure, High-Quality Omega-3 Supplements We all have nutrition gaps. That’s where dietary supplements come in. They’re called supplements because they supplement our diet with the nutrients we might be deficient in. If getting enough EPA and DHA from foods has become a challenge, consider taking a highly concentrated, thoroughly purified fish oil supplement. Omega-3 Power Omega-3 Power is a potent fish oil concentrate that supplies substantial allowances of EPA and DHA. EPA- Each 2-softgel serving of Omega-3 Power delivers 860 mg of this long-chain omega-3 fatty acid. Clinical trials established EPA’s importance for attention in children and adults. Its necessity for heart and blood vessel health is undisputed. DHA- Each 2-softgel serving of Omega-3 Power delivers 580 mg of this long-chain omega-3. DHA is structurally essential for the nerve cells to make their functional connections and supports healthy memory, mood and overall cognition. EPA and DHA are required for our brain’s nerve cells to make energy and to use that energy for their growth, maintenance, and repair. Since neither of these omega-3s can be efficiently made by the body, optimal intakes must come from foods and supplements. Ultra-pure Fish Oil Sourced from pelagic (not bottom-feeders) fish species with short lifespans (so that they don’t accumulate as many toxins), the fish oil in Omega-3 Power undergoes the most advanced purification process in the supplement industry. Omega-3 Power is tested by independent labs to ensure freshness (lack of rancidity) and for over 250 potential environmental contaminants, including mercury, lead and other heavy metals, PCBs, PBBs, dioxins, furans, and a diverse range of other organic pollutants. The oil in Omega-3 Power is also recognized by several international organizations as a sustainably managed ingredient. Vegan Omega-3 Power Vegan Omega-3 Power is a vegan algal oil capsule, customized for children and adults. It supplies clinically effective doses of omega-3s (700 mg EPA and 300 mg DHA), nutrients that are practically vitamins since the body can’t make them in the sufficient amounts needed to meet its requirements. Algae Omega-3 Many vegetarians supplement with flax seed, chia seed, or hemp seed oils, which contain the omega-3 ALA. But EPA and DHA, typically found in fish, are the only forms of omega-3 the body uses. It’s possible for the body to convert ALA to EPA and DHA, but it's a difficult process. A superior alternative to flax oil, Vegan Omega-3 Power features natural oil from marine algae – a direct source of vegan EPA and DHA. This highly concentrated formula rivals fish oil in its purity and potency. 2 Omega-3s To Meet Your Needs Omega-3 fatty acids are important for health and longevity. While it’s possible to get some omega-3s from your diet, those who don’t regularly consume fish and vegans may benefit from taking a high EPA and DHA omega-3 supplement. Try Omega-3 Power and Vegan Omega-3 Power today! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Omega-3 Power, Vegan Omega-3 Power and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. Further Reading Amen, DG, Harris WS, Kidd PM, others, 2017. Quantitative erythrocyte omega-3 EPA + DHA levels are related to higher regional cerebral blood flow on brain SPECT. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 58, 1189-1199. Harris WS, Mozaffarian D, Lefevre M, others, 2009. Towards establishing dietary reference intakes for eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids. Journal of Nutrition 139, 804S-819S. Tan ZS, Harris WS, Beiser AS, others, 2012. Red blood cell omega-3 fatty acid levels and markers of accelerated brain aging. Neurology 78, 658-664. Messamore E, McNamara RK, 2016. Detection and treatment of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency in psychiatric practice: Rationale and implementation. Lipids in Health and Disease 15:25 (13 pages).
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5 of the Top Benefits of Reading and How to Read More
It’s no coincidence that many of the world’s brightest, most accomplished, and successful people are voracious readers. When considering the benefits of reading, it's clear that reading boosts intelligence, comprehension, imagination, critical thinking, empathy, vocabulary, and more. Reading books does the double duty of enriching an individual with knowledge and/or engrossing stories, while also stimulating the brain in unique ways. It’s more neurobiologically demanding than simply processing images or speech. When you read and work to understand a concept or start to picture a character or story, different parts of your brain – such as vision, language, and associative learning – begin working together. We use both hemispheres of the brain when we read. Also, reading activates the corpus callosum (the tissue that connects the two hemispheres) which allows for a better exchange of information (connectivity) between the hemispheres. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of reading, and how to read more. 5 of the Top Benefits of Reading + Reading Tips 1. Improves Brain Power and Structure Reading increases your brain power and can even improve your brain structure. The mental stimulation it provides stokes the development of new neurons, which boosts brain functioning in numerous ways. One of the top benefits of reading is that it enhances your imagination. We use our imaginative powers to create images of the people, places, and actions described in books. This practice strengthens the mind as it acts like a muscle. This makes it easier for your mind to imagine things in real life as well. Imagination encourages creativity and innovative thinking. Reading has been shown to boost intelligence. In an ongoing longitudinal study involving nearly 2,000 sets of twins, the twin with stronger early reading skills showed higher intellectual aptitude later. Also related to intelligence, reading critically (as one does with literature) appears to boost mental flexibility. Mental flexibility is the ability of a person to shift a course of thought or action according to the changing demands of a situation. Students who read for pleasure have been shown to do better in multiple subjects, including English, Math, Science, and History. That’s because reading helps students to think critically and improves reading comprehension skills. It’s no surprise that reading is also good for your memory and may protect against neurodegenerative brain health issues. Research indicates that more frequent cognitive activity (such as reading) across the lifespan is associated with slower late-life cognitive decline. Reading can literally change the structure of your brain, making it stronger. One study showed that poor readers can be trained to become better readers, and their brains get stronger as a result. A six-month program of daily reading revealed that the volume of white matter in the language area of the brain of poor readers increased. 2. Increases Empathy Reading literary fiction, especially stories that go deep and explore the inner lives of their characters, helps one to develop the ability to empathize with others. Also called the “theory of mind,” it’s an important process in social cognition. Officially, it refers to one’s capacity to understand that other people hold beliefs and desires and that these might differ from one’s own beliefs and desires. Long-term readers of literary fiction (in comparison to nonfiction or popular fiction) showed better-developed theory of mind in tests. 3. Reduces Stress Reading can be immensely relaxing. A research study on stress management techniques for students found that reading for 30 minutes decreased acute stress. Additionally, a University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%, and worked better and faster than other relaxation methods, such as listening to music or drinking a cup of tea. Stress reduction is also beneficial to heart health, and it may account for why reading tends to make people feel good and can help boost mood. 4. Helps You Fall Asleep Reading and bedside tables go together for a reason. A 2019 study involving nearly 1,000 people had roughly half the group read before bed for 7 days, and the control group go to bed without reading. Those who read before bed were up to 22% more likely to report better sleep than the control group. The Sleep Foundation suggests winding down at least 30 minutes before bed with something such as quiet reading (from a book, not a digital device), stating it helps you “get into the right frame of mind for sleep.” 5. Builds Your Vocabulary Research involving adults shows that extensive reading is an excellent way to expand one’s vocabulary. Students who read for pleasure tend to be better readers, better writers, and have more grammatical competence. This can have real-world payoffs. One recent poll found that soft skills are among the most important skills wanted by employers. Among the top soft skills are communication skills, which are honed by a strong vocabulary. It’s Never Too Late No matter your age or reading level, it’s never too late to enjoy reading. Here are a few tips for how to make reading a healthy habit: Make time to read every day. Whether it’s 5 minutes or a half hour, build a regular time/place to read into your day. Take your book with you wherever you go. It will encourage reading whenever you have extra time. Read books you really enjoy. You’ve got to love it to make it a habit. Join a book club. There’s nothing more motivating than having a regular time to discuss books with others. So, pick up a book and start boosting your brain power today! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
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What Are the Best Vitamins & Nutrients for Memory?
Though no one knows exactly how memory works, it is affected by brain health. Sadly, it’s all too obvious when someone’s memory isn’t working well or is failing. Memory decline can be related to a variety of issues, such as: Unhealthy lifestyle Excessive stress Poor circulation Little or no exercise Being overweight Inadequate nutrition Lack of sleep Head injuries The good news is that it’s possible to avoid or alleviate these issues. No matter how you’ve treated your brain in the past, you can rescue your memory over time by following a health plan. It’s recommended that you get consistent physical exercise, eat a healthy diet and take high-quality dietary supplements with ingredients proven to help memory. Best Vitamins & Nutrients for Your Memory An essential way to support your memory is with proper nutrition. Nutraceutical ingredients, verified from clinical research, can help keep your mind sharp and efficient. BrainMD combines these ingredients into powerful supplements aimed at boosting your memory. Daily Vitamin Packs for Your Memory Brain & Body Power MAX is the most powerful dietary supplement system available today.* It contains superior memory nutrients and provides clinically researched levels of vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, concentrated plant extracts, and digestive enzymes.* This all-in-one supplement system makes it easy to stay healthy on the go with easy-to-carry packets for your purse or pocket.* Each daily vitamin packet contains: NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin - Provides over fifty vitamins, essential minerals, and other nutrients your body needs.* It also includes other clinically-researched ingredients, vegetable and fruit concentrates, and digestive enzymes.* All these ingredients combine to give you a solid foundation for brain and body health.* Omega-3 Power - To operate at peak performance, a healthy brain, heart and body require substantial dietary intakes of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.* Each serving of Omega-3 Power provides 1,440 mg of EPA and DHA – 4 to 5 times what you’ll find in conventional brands and big box stores.* To ensure purity, Omega-3 Power is tested by independent labs to ensure lack of rancidity and to exclude 250 potential toxins and environmental or organic contaminants.* Brain & Memory Power Boost - Contains potent ingredients that are clinically-researched to promote the brain’s basic functions, such as its need for blood flow, its high energy demands, and its connectivity through trillions of nerve cells.* Supporting these multiple functions can translate into healthy memory performance.* Powerful Daily Vitamin Powder to Sharpen Your Memory BRIGHT MINDS Memory Multivitamin is scientifically formulated to support memory and other brain functions – such as attention, mood, judgment and behavior – without the hassle of swallowing handfuls of capsules or tablets each day.* We included the most effective ingredients for brain health in this powder, including: plant nutraceuticals, standardized herbal concentrates, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.* Simply add this sugar-free, citrus-flavored powder to water, juice, or a fruit smoothie and mix. Don’t like swallowing capsules? Now there’s an easier way to get all of the nutrients you need…try a memory-boosting vitamin drink!* Omega-3 Supplements for Memory The omega-3 fatty acids in Omega-3 Power are critical to building healthy cell membranes, which are crucial for all our cells to work.* Surveys indicate most Americans are deficient in omega-3s, getting barely a third of the daily amounts they likely need for optimum brain and body health.* Omega-3 Power complements BRIGHT MINDS Memory Multivitamin to ensure your brain cells are adequately supplied with the biochemical fundamentals they need for growth, maintenance, repair, and for creating and accessing memories.* Best Turmeric Supplement: Brain Curcumins for Memory BrainMD’s Brain Curcumins provides all three of the curcuminoid substances found in the turmeric root. These curcuminoids have been concentrated into the highly effective, activated curcumin formula called Longvida® Optimized Curcumin Extract.* In a double-blind clinical trial, subjects who received Longvida curcumin showed better-sustained attention and working memory (such as multitasking) just 1 hour after taking it.* Brain Curcumins supplies 25% more Longvida per capsule (500 mg) than was used in the trial (400 mg), for additional benefit to the mind and body.* Your memory is what allows you to revisit and treasure the most special moments in your life, so be sure to fortify your brain with the nutrients that can strengthen and restore it.* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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Nootropics: One of the Best Ways to Boost Your Brain
Perhaps you’ve heard the term nootropics and have wondered what they are. Originally, nootropics (pronounced: "new tropics") referred to chemicals that met specific criteria. Today, the term is used to describe any natural or synthetic compound that may have a positive effect on cognition and overall brain function. Types of Nootropics There are 3 major categories of nootropics: dietary supplements, prescription drugs, and synthetic substances. Many people use a nootropic every day, even if they aren’t aware of it. As a “natural” stimulant, caffeine is a type of nootropic. Although caffeine can help increase focus and energy, it also can lead to an energy crash (when infused with sugar) and sleep issues (especially if consumed later in the day). Depending on your body chemistry, you may end up feeling fatigued or moody when the caffeine wears off. Cautions of Nootropics Opinions vary concerning the efficacy and safety of nootropics. It’s easy to claim a product can boost energy, focus, or memory (ideal for students cramming for an exam or employees pulling an all-nighter putting together a work presentation), but is there a placebo effect to consuming such products? Or are noticeable increases in cognitive functions due to a product’s sugar or caffeine content, which may be masked by a natural ingredient like l-theanine? As with any medication or holistic treatment, it’s recommended that you consult with a nutritionally informed physician before trying nootropics. Also, the FDA doesn’t closely regulate nootropic supplements like it does for prescription medications. If you notice any side effects, stop using the product and immediately contact a trusted healthcare professional. Benefits of Nootropics Though there may be a gap between what a nootropic claims vs what it actually delivers, some of the purported benefits of nootropics include improved: Attention Concentration Energy Memory Motivation So, what are some of the natural nootropic nutrients that can help improve your brain? 6 of the Best High-Quality Nootropic Nutrients 1. Acetyl-L-Carnitine An amino acid that’s naturally produced in the body (but not used to make proteins), acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is important for energy production. It assists in the proper functioning of genes, enzymes, and neurotransmitters. Among ALC’s many benefits are its promotion of healthy memory, lessening of mental fatigue, balancing of mood, and as a chemical contributor to the production of acetylcholine which is a major memory neurotransmitter. 2. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) Alpha-lipoic acid is called a conditionally essential nutrient because the body can make it but at times needs additional amounts from the diet. It’s an essential cofactor for three major enzymes that all our cells use to generate energy. ALA can help support blood sugar utilization and can enhance nerve cell energy and maintenance. It’s also a powerful antioxidant that protects our brain and other cells against oxygen free radicals. 3. Ginkgo Biloba Extract Ginkgo biloba has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Standardized extracts prepared from the leaf have existed for over 50 years and are used worldwide for a diverse range of health benefits. This effective plant extract promotes healthy blood flow, which is crucial for optimal brain function. Ginkgo’s unique combination of antioxidants and blood vessel protectants helps shield the brain from toxins while supporting overall mental sharpness. 4. Huperzine A Huperzine A is extracted from the Huperzia serrata (club moss) plant, used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It can enhance the acetylcholine neurotransmitter system, which is tied to memory and behavior, and may help support memory and other cognitive functions. 5. N-Acetylcysteine N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an amino acid (also not used to make proteins) that supports the fundamental functioning of our brain cells and regulates a broad array of cell functions. It provides powerful antioxidant defense against free radicals, which are formed as our cells’ mitochondria use oxygen to make the huge amounts of energy needed by the brain. NAC is the ingredient source of l-cysteine, an antioxidant amino acid that cannot be directly used in supplements because it’s chemically unstable. L-cysteine is a building block for glutathione, an extremely important antioxidant, antitoxin, and overall protectant located inside our cells. Via glutathione, NAC contributes to numerous neurotransmitter activities in the healthy brain. 6. PhosphatidylSerine PhosphatidylSerine (PS) is a phospholipid nutrient that’s a universal, essential building block for cell membranes. PS is present in all our cells and is especially concentrated in the synapses and the brain’s nerve cells. Our brain cells need PS to generate and manage the high energy, complex electrical activity, and intense information processing that makes our brains work. PS has been put through more than 30 years of gold standard clinical research involving randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials. PS helps to support attention, learning, memory, the ability to cope with stress, and overall mental sharpness. PS may help improve attention in children and is the best documented nutrient for memory recall of words, numbers, names, faces, and events in people over 50. All 6 of these proven nutrients are included in BrainMD’s top-selling nootropic supplement… Brain & Memory Power Boost Brain & Memory Power Boost promotes the brain’s energy generation and the overall functioning of its 200 billion cells.* Its ingredient profile supports the connectivity functions of the trillions of synapses that these cells make with each other and defend against oxygen free radical and other toxic threats to the brain.* This advanced brain and memory support formula is developed from clinical research to help sustain circulation to your brain, which is crucial for you to maintain your mental edge.* Brain & Memory Power Boost promotes healthy aging and can benefit brains of all ages.* Designed with Your Brain in Mind Though many scientists and medical practitioners are still skeptical about the purported health benefits of nootropics, many brain-boosting nutrients have been tested for purity and efficacy, like those in BrainMD supplements.* In fact, nootropics is just a trendy name for what BrainMD’s been doing for over 12 years. Our supplements are brain directed, which means they’re formulated for optimal brain and body performance.* Get the ultra-pure, nootropic nutrients in Brain & Memory Power Boost today!* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Brain & Memory Power Boost and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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What Are the Best Foods & Supplements for My Brain Type?
The more you know about your brain, the better you can optimize it. Know Your Brain Type Just as identifying your abilities, interests, and skills can help you become a more well-rounded, successful person, knowing your brain type can help you better understand who you are and why you do what you do. These insights can help you know what mental/brain health risks you may face, which can potentially impact your future career and relationships in significant ways. Based on his brain imaging work, Dr. Daniel Amen has identified 16 Brain Types (5 primary types and 11 combination types). These types can help you better understand who you are, how you behave, and how you relate to others. Here’s a closer look at each of the 5 main brain types along with the distinguishing characteristics, diet plan, and supplement recommendations for each type. The 5 Major Brain Types – Character Traits and Lifestyle Recommendations Brain Type 1 – Balanced Individuals with Brain Type 1 typically show full, even, symmetrical activity throughout the brain, with the most activity in the cerebellum – one of the brain’s major processing centers. People with Brain Type 1 tend to live longer because of their high level of conscientiousness. They do what they say they’re going to do. They show up on time and follow through on tasks they’ve promise to complete. In short, they’re the kind of person you can depend on. Those with Brain Type 1 don’t tend to take big risks, nor are they first adopters of new technology. Although it’s possible, they’re not likely to be entrepreneurs or industry innovators. Instead, they like rules and tend to play by them. Although Brain Type 1 is the optimum brain type, if you don’t use it, you might lose it. So do everything you can to keep your brain healthy. Action Plan Improving your brain health is the most important thing you can do for overall health and happiness. Remember, small changes yield big results. You can dive in headfirst or start a little slower with one change per week. Either way, the most important thing is to take the first step. Brain Healthy Nutrition Your brain is the most energy-hungry organ in your body, using 20% or more of the body's energy. One of the quickest ways to achieve better brain function is to identify which foods you should choose and which foods you should lose. Eat right so you can think right! Dietary Recommendations Your Type 1 brain needs a diet that’s well-balanced between high-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This nutritional approach will support balanced blood sugar and mood, help you maintain focus and motivation, and provide the necessary building blocks for optimal brain health. Proteins: wild fish, pasture-raised chicken, turkey, eggs, bison, venison, lamb, and legumes. Healthy Fats: olive oil, MCT oil, avocado oil, ghee, coconut oil, avocado, nuts and seeds. Carbohydrates: focus on low-glycemic, high-fiber, unrefined, and organic sources. Vegetables: 6-10 servings per day by adding them to meals whenever possible. Whole fruits (avoid sweetened dried fruits and condensed fruit juice): 1-2 servings per day. Gluten-free whole grains (wild/brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, gluten-free whole oats, and teff): 1-2x per day. Hydration: the brain is 80% water, and needs to be kept well hydrated. The current recommendations from Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academies are that women consume at least 91 ounces of water and men at least 125 ounces daily, from their foods, beverages, and drinking water. Brain Supporting Supplements Brain-directed supplements can support your physical and mental energy levels. It’s recommended for everyone to take daily essentials plus additional supplements tailored to your specific Brain Type. Recommended Supplements for Brain Type 1 1. Brain & Body Power We’ve combined our daily essentials into easy-to-use, on-the-go packets. Each packet of Brain & Body Power contains the following supplements: NeuroVite Plus – a powerful combination of more than 50 vitamins, minerals and plant extracts in their most efficient and bioavailable forms, NeuroVite Plus nourishes all the body’s cells, tissues, and organs. Brain & Memory Power Boost – this brain-boosting formula delivers your body specialized, brain directed ingredients to support the brain’s energy, connectivity, and overall performance. Omega-3 Power – gel capsules of the purest, most powerful form of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA (without the fishy aftertaste) to promote healthy cognition, including recall and retention, focus and concentration, and mood and behavior. 2. ProBrainBiotics ProBrainBiotics offers advanced support for the gut microbiome, which has an ongoing supportive relationship with the brain, and helps promote healthy digestion, a positive mood, and a healthier response to everyday stress. Brain Type 2 – Spontaneous Individuals with Brain Type 2 typically show lower activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in brain scans. The PFC is the brain’s brake system. It stops us from saying or doing things that aren’t in our best interest, but it can also stop creative, out-of-the-box thinking if it works too hard. Studies show that Brain Type 2 may be associated with lower activities of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved with focus and motivation. People with this Brain Type are likely to need excitement or stimulation in order to stay focused. Smokers and heavy coffee drinkers also tend to fit this type, as they use these substances to turn their brains on. The best strategy to balance Brain Type 2 is to strengthen the PFC by naturally boosting dopamine activity. Higher protein, lower carbohydrate diets tend to help, as do physical exercise and certain stimulating supplements. Any supplement or medicine that calms the brain may make this type worse. Brain Healthy Nutrition Dietary Recommendations Your Type 2 brain needs more high-quality proteins, plenty of healthy fats, and little to no simple carbohydrates. Proteins: wild fish, pasture-raised chicken, turkey, eggs, bison, venison, lamb, and legumes. Aim for about 1g per kg of body weight each day in protein. Healthy Fats: olive oil, MCT oil, avocado oil, ghee, coconut oil, avocado, nuts and seeds. Carbohydrates: focus on getting most of your carbohydrates from vegetables by adding them to meals whenever possible. Other carbohydrates should be low-glycemic, high-fiber, unrefined, and organic whenever possible. Hydration: drink at least half your body weight (lbs.) in ounces of filtered water each day. Brain Supporting Supplements Recommended Supplements for Brain Type 2 1. Brain & Body Power 2. Focus & Energy A natural, non-habit-forming blend of the essential nutrient choline with adaptogenic, energizing herbals (standardized green tea extract, ginseng, rhodiola, and ashwagandha), Focus & Energy supports mental sharpness and productivity. Brain Type 3 – Persistent Individuals with Brain Type 3 are often take-charge people who won’t take no for an answer. They can be strong-willed, tenacious, persistent, and sometimes stubborn. They also tend to struggle with worry, have trouble sleeping, and like things to be done a certain way. Those with Brain Type 3 often have increased activity in the front part of the brain, in an area called the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG). The ACG is the brain’s gear shifter. It helps people go from thought to thought or action to action. The ACG is involved with being mentally flexible and influences your ability to “go with the flow.” When the ACG is overactive, probably due to low activity of serotonin, people can have problems shifting attention, which can make them persist, even when it may not be a good idea for them to do so. People with Brain Type 3 don’t need more stimulation. In fact, caffeine and diet pills tend to make this type worse. The best strategy to balance Brain Type 3 is to find natural ways to boost serotonin activity to calm the brain and body. Brain Healthy Nutrition Dietary Recommendations Your Type 3 Brain needs a higher complex carbohydrate, lower protein diet. This nutritional approach will help boost serotonin levels naturally. Proteins: wild fish, pasture-raised chicken, turkey, eggs, bison, venison, lamb, and legumes. Aim for about 0.5 grams per kg of body weight each day in protein. Healthy Fats: olive oil, MCT oil, avocado oil, ghee, coconut, olive oil, avocado, nuts and seeds. Carbohydrates: focus on low-glycemic, high-fiber, unrefined, and organic sources. Hydration: drink at least half your body weight (lbs.) in ounces of filtered water each day. Brain Supporting Supplements Recommended Supplements for Brain Type 3 1. Brain & Body Power 2. Serotonin Mood Support Serotonin Mood Support contains a patented form of saffron along with other key nutrients that help to promote calmness, positive mood, serotonin balance, and even healthy weight management. Brain Type 4 – Sensitive Brain Type 4 individuals tend to show increased activity in the limbic (or emotional) centers of the brain, making them highly sensitive and empathic, but also subject to mood issues. People with this Brain Type may struggle with constant negative thoughts and pessimistic tendencies. Exercise, omega-3 fatty acids, and certain supplements, such as SAMe and vitamin D, can help individuals with Brain Type 4. Brain Healthy Nutrition Dietary Recommendations Your Type 4 brain needs a diet that’s balanced in high-quality proteins and complex carbohydrates. This type of diet will help balance your blood sugar, help you focus, and provide the necessary building blocks for brain health. Proteins: protein-rich foods provide amino acids the body needs to create neurotransmitters such as serotonin (linked to mood, motivation, and positive thinking) and dopamine (to help maintain focus, increase learning, and manage emotional reactions). Regularity of protein (every few hours) helps with satiety and to balance blood sugar and can help prevent anxiousness. Meals should include chicken, wild fish, pasture raised beef or lamb, hemp, eggs, or a plant-based protein powder Eat protein with every meal or snack. Easy snack options: small apple with almond butter blueberries with walnuts boiled egg with sliced tomato and basil Carbohydrates: focus on getting most of your carbohydrates from vegetables by adding them to meals whenever possible. Other carbohydrates should be low-glycemic, high-fiber, unrefined, and organic whenever possible. Gluten-free whole grains: 1 serving per day (wild/brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, gluten-free whole oats, and teff). Prebiotic fibers (support healthy microbiome balance): leeks, onions, raw garlic, sunchoke, raw chicory root, raw asparagus, raw dandelion greens. Vegetables: 6-8 servings per day Whole fruits: 1-2 servings per day Hydration: drink at least half your body weight (lbs.) in ounces of filtered water each day. Brain Supporting Supplements Recommended Supplements for Brain Type 4 1. Brain & Body Power 2. SAMe Mood & Movement 400 SAMe Mood & Movement 400 provides SAMe (S-AdenosylMethionine), a nutrient with very high energy that also provides key methyl groups to help power numerous enzymes important for the brain, joints, liver, muscles, and other organs. SAMe is fundamental to the body’s renewal, repair, and overall well-being. Brain Type 5 – Cautious Brain scans of individuals with Brain Type 5 often show heightened activity in the anxiety centers of the brain, such as the basal ganglia, insular cortex, and/or amygdala. This is probably linked to lower activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps calm the brain. People with this brain type tend to be motivated toward a goal. They can feel intense pleasure, but also struggle with feeling anxious or nervous, which causes them to be more cautious and reserved, but also more prepared. This brain type can be balanced with meditation and hypnosis, along with supportive nutrients such as B6, magnesium, and GABA, and the herbals lemon balm and theanine. Brain Healthy Nutrition Dietary Recommendations Same as Brain Type 4. Brain Supporting Supplements Recommended Supplements for Brain Type 5 1. Brain & Body Power 2. GABA Calming Support GABA Calming Support contains clinically studied nutrients and herbals that help naturally calm brain waves and allow your brain to slow down anxious or fretful thoughts. We’ve taken a comprehensive look at 5 Brain Types, but there are 11 other types that are combinations of the main types. To learn which of the 16 Brain Types you are, take the Brain Health Assessment. Take the Brain Health Assessment to Know Your Brain Type Maybe you’ve taken an online personality quiz in the past. Though such tests can occasionally offer helpful information, most fail to consider an individual’s health habits and personal history. In many cases, they also neglect to include an improvement plan. Another problem with online tests is that they typically aren’t backed by science. Worse still, they frequently place people into rigid categories that can discourage, confuse, or even stigmatize the test taker. With so many poorly-designed tests flooding cyberspace, we’re proud to present the Brain Health Assessment (BHA), a science-based, paradigm-shattering personality test. This one-of-a-kind online test: Was developed by Dr. Daniel G. Amen, a double board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 40 years. Is powered by the world’s largest database of functional brain scans – 160,000 and growing. Incorporates extensive research – Amen Clinics has published over 70 clinical studies on brain health. Is based on the combined clinical experience of a team of Amen-trained doctors who have worked with patients from 120 countries. Backed by decades of research, the results of the BHA will give you a personalized report that measures your overall health and includes recommended improvement strategies based on your Brain Type. To discover your brain type, take the free online BHA quiz. It only takes about 5 minutes to complete and your answers are strictly confidential. Discover the tool that has helped millions of people increase their energy, sharpen their focus, and optimize their brain. You can know your Brain Type in just a few minutes, so start now. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Brain Health & Reach Your Goals
Even though we usually think of goals in terms of improving diet and exercise, there’s a whole other dimension of wellness to consider. While most goal-setting focuses on improving the body, this year, why not consider how to take care of your brain? Regardless of which goals you made, protecting your brain should be at the top of the list. Optimizing brain function and performance is essential for improving your health…and maintaining those healthy habits throughout the year. To increase the chances of achieving your goals, here are some of the best ways to take care of your brain... How to Improve Your Brain Health 1. Stimulate Your Brain A New Year means new opportunities and adventures. One of the best ways to expand your horizons is to continually engage in new learning. Set aside sometime every day to learn something new. Some examples are: learning a new language or musical instrument, trying a new kind of dance or other complex physical activity, or taking up a new hobby like chess or painting. Brain researchers emphasize that the “use it or lose it” principle applies to the brain. When the brain stops learning it can start fading, so be intentional about learning new things. 2. Nourish Your Brain If one of your healthy resolutions is to jumpstart your mental focus and energy, getting nutritional support is a must. A deficiency in vitamin D or magnesium, for example, may cause excessive fatigue. For starters, take a good multi-vitamin with vitamin D, all the B vitamins, and magnesium. These are the foundational supplements to ensure your cells are getting the basic nutrients they need. Then you can add other supplements to boost mood, focus, or memory. Properly fueling your brain and body with diet and supplements can optimize your mental performance, which can help you accomplish your goals. BrainMD even offers the opportunity to try three of our most popular products with our 7 day Free Trials. 3. Energize Your Brain The most common resolutions involve diet and exercise. Aerobic exercise, sufficient to make you sweat for 30 minutes, increases blood flow to your brain as well as your muscles and other tissues. This helps deliver nutrients and remove waste products, and can even increase the growth factor BDNF which promotes improved brain function. Since it’s recommended that adults get 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily, maintaining a consistent fitness plan can be a challenge in today’s busy world. To help you reach your New Year’s goals, ramp up your workout routines by attending a group hike, bike class, or Pilates sessions 2-3 times a week for one month. Anything, from ice skating to dance lessons to gravity training, can turn a dreaded workout into a fun activity that you’ll actually look forward to doing. Above all, find physical activities that you enjoy…exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. 4. Renew Your Brain If you were one of the many people who sacrificed quality sleep to keep up with the increased demands of the stressful holiday season, now is the time to get back to a healthy sleep schedule. Sleep helps repair and renew all the cells in the body. It gives the brain a chance to wash away toxins that build up during the day. A recent study found that just one night of sleep deprivation can raise blood levels of tau, a protein potentially harmful to the brain. To ensure you have the energy needed to fast-track your New Year’s fitness goals, it’s recommended that you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. 5. Know Your Brain Did you know there are 16 different Brain Types? Which type are you? You can find out by taking the Brain Health Assessment (BHA). Identifying your abilities, interests, and skills can help you become a more well-rounded person. And knowing your Brain Type can help you better understand who you are and why you do what you do. These insights can potentially impact your future career and relationships in significant ways, by: Benefits of Knowing Your Brain Type Reducing Stigma – Our society is inundated with judgments about how people should think, act, behave, and perform. Knowing your specific Brain Type can help reduce stigma by removing the labels others have placed on you. Increasing Knowledge – Knowing your Brain Type can help identify your brain’s potential risk factors. The sooner you’re aware of specific challenges, the sooner you can begin to address them with natural treatments. Setting Goals – Once you know your Brain Type, you’ll also receive a Brain Fit Score. Since even the healthiest brains can be improved with targeted treatments, you’ll receive a comprehensive wellness plan (including diet, exercise, and lifestyle interventions) that will help you set and achieve your goals. Providing Nutritional Support – Cut through the confusing world of supplements to discover what you should be taking for optimal physical and mental wellness. Included with your Brain Fit Score is a recommended supplement regimen customized for your specific Brain Type. Making It Fun – People take personality quizzes all the time, but those tests only provide a partial understanding of your brain. Learn more about how you’re wired and how you can use that knowledge to improve yourself in the future. Since habits, skills, and personality traits originate in the brain, learning your Brain Type can be the key to unlocking your potential. With the BHA, you’ll get an accurate assessment of your brain, a doctor-recommended supplement plan, and a personalized roadmap for healing. The BHA is absolutely FREE and only takes about 5 to 7 minutes to complete. You can take the Brain Health Assessment here. If you’re ready to crush your goals, these 5 brain-boosting activities can help you establish healthy habits with far-reaching benefits. Here’s to a new brain and a new you! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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Essential Oils: A Natural Way to Manage Stress & Brighten Your Mood!
How is stress affecting your life? Ask yourself these questions: Do I often feel overwhelmed? Is it difficult for me to relax? Does my mind race with anxious or stressful thoughts? Do I often get irritated with those around me? Is it hard for me to handle life’s ups and downs? If you answered “yes” to any of these, you aren’t alone! In today’s ever-changing, fast-paced world, many people deal with added stressors every day. Some lifestyle factors – like exercising, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, meditating, and nurturing relationships with positive people – can help you cope with daily stress. Another effective way to promote calm and improve mood is to engage the senses, specifically the sense of smell. The Science of Smell A wealth of scientific research has shown a link between mood and our sense of smell. - When scientists chemically blunted the sense of smell in mice for a 2018 study, it induced depressive behavior in the rodents. - In another study on elderly Koreans, an impaired olfactory function was associated with a significantly higher degree of depressive thoughts in addition to lower cognitive performance and decreased quality of life. - A 2016 review of the existing research on anosmia (loss of the sense of smell) and mood issues showed that the relationship appears to be a two-way street. People with low mood are more likely to have problems with their sense of smell than healthy controls, and people with anosmia are more likely to have mood issues. Olfaction and the Brain The area of your brain involved with smell (olfactory cortex) is located near your limbic system (the brain’s emotion center), including the hippocampus, which is involved with mood and memory. These areas tend to deteriorate during the latter stages of life. Not only is the loss of smell associated with low mood, it also may be linked to serious, perhaps long-term, memory loss. Studies show that olfactory deficits have been noted in Alzheimer’s dementia as well as individuals with mild-cognitive impairment (MCI), and that these deficits precede the onset of illness. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing a diminished sense of smell or the sudden loss of your ability to identify scents, it could be a sign of trouble. Be mindful of any health issues, such as fever, cough, and fatigue, and assess your emotional well-being and memory to see if you notice any changes. If these symptoms worsen, be sure to make an appointment with a healthcare professional. Sharpen Your Sense of Smell Just as you can strengthen your muscles with a physical workout, you may be able to improve your sense of smell by exercising it every day. There’s evidence that repeated exposure to certain scents can improve the ability to smell. In a study from Aristotle University in Greece, 111 patients with anosmia following a respiratory infection repeatedly trained their sense of smell twice a day using four scents (phenyl ethyl alcohol, eucalyptol, citronellal, eugenol). Compared to a control group, participants noticed a significant difference in their sense of smell after 8 weeks, and the improvement lasted up to a year. If you struggle with identifying smells, put your nose to work. This may be a pleasant exercise since certain scents are calming or uplifting. Essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and jasmine, can help support a healthy mood and manage stress. What Are Essential Oils? Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. Since many of these oils require significant amounts of organic plant material to make, some can be more expensive than others. For instance, it takes about 5,000 pounds of lemon balm to make 1 pound of lemon balm essential oil. Benefits of Essential Oils Essential oils are often used in aromatherapy, a practice that uses the sense of smell to help improve mood and overall well-being. The oils can be rubbed into the skin and some ingest small amounts of these oils in their foods or beverages. Caution is recommended since essential oils may cause skin irritation when applied topically. When considering the benefits of essential oils, some people report that they can: Enhance relaxation Increase happiness Revitalize mood Improve sleep quality Manage stress and anxiousness Relieve headaches and nausea In fact, research studies show that essential oils can help reduce anxiousness and also may have a positive impact on depressive behavior in laboratory animal studies. Since essential oils provide so many potential wellness benefits, BrainMD is proud to offer the… Bright Minds Aroma Diffuser The Bright Minds Aroma Diffuser utilizes breakthrough ultrasonic technology to atomize essential oils for scenting your home or office.* Diffuse your essential oils safely and naturally with this compact and convenient Aroma Diffuser.* Just a drop or two will do. What Others Are Saying: “I really like the size of the diffuser. It’s a nice size for my desk. And the deep wood grain is attractive. The selection of oils are fantastic. I’m pleased that I ordered one.” - Walker Bright Minds Diffuser Oils Pack Fill your home or office with natural scents to help brighten your mood, increase mental clarity, and restore inner calm.* The Bright Minds essential oil set contains 6 natural scents to inspire feelings of calm, happiness, and inspiration.* This 100% pure essential oil set includes 10 ml bottles of: Lavender for mood, anxiousness, grief, memory support, and pain relief* Ylang-ylang for mood, memory support, emotional trauma, and libido* Peppermint for energy, focus, and stress reduction* Eucalyptus for energy and breathing* Jasmine for mood and relaxation* Chamomile for anxiousness and quality sleep* What Others Are Saying: “I like the diffuser size and shape and the generous amount and kind of oils in the nice box with descriptions. I need to enjoy it more often and do some breathing, prayer and reading with it. Thank you for this fine product.” – Lisa B. To help promote better mood, relaxation, and happiness, order the Bright Minds Aroma Diffuser and Bright Minds Diffuser Oils Pack today!* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about the Bright Minds Aroma Diffuser and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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Power Nap 101: Some of the Best Ways to Avoid an Afternoon Slump
It’s no secret that Americans have trouble getting enough sleep. About 35% of U.S. adults fail to get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and experts estimate about 50-70 million Americans have a sleep disorder. That’s a lot of sleepy people. Due to our internal body clocks, we’re generally at our sleepiest in the early morning hours between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., and again in the early afternoon hours between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. That’s when most people feel an afternoon dip in energy. One solution for the afternoon slump, and for general lack of sleep, is the “power nap.” Benefits of Napping One study compared taking a nap to using caffeine. Naps were found to be more effective in minimizing afternoon sleepiness. Numerous studies indicate that a brief afternoon nap can reduce fatigue, restore alertness, improve cognitive function and memory, and boost mood – without grogginess or disorientation. In fact, the research showing these benefits is so compelling, top American companies (Google, Facebook, Uber, Ben & Jerrys, Cisco, etc.) now allow, and even encourage, short power naps during the workday with designated sleeping “pods” or nap areas. Here’s what you need to know about napping so that you can fully enjoy its brain and body benefits if you choose to make it part of your wellness routine. 3 Types of Power Nap and Which One is Best for You The benefits that come from napping largely depend on the duration of your nap, research shows. Short Naps A brief power nap of 10 to 20 minutes delivers immediate benefits (without grogginess) such as enhanced alertness and concentration, elevated mood, and improved motor skills (like typing at your computer or strumming a guitar). These benefits are experienced immediately upon waking and can last up to three hours. Virtually any nap under 30 minutes falls into the “light sleep” part of the sleep cycle and is great for a quick mental refresh. A NASA study found that a snooze of 26 minutes showed alertness improvements in pilots of up to 54 percent, and improved job performance by 34 percent, compared to pilots who didn’t nap. If you’re under a lot of pressure, experts believe a quick 30-minute nap can release stress and improve your immune health. Medium Naps If you nap for 45 to 90 minutes, you will fall into the “slow-wave sleep” part of the sleep cycle, which improves cognitive performance up to several hours but can also cause sleep inertia (grogginess or disorientation) for a short period after waking. Naps of this length also help boost decision-making skills, and tasks like memorizing vocabulary and recalling directions. This length of nap may have heart health benefits as well. A study found that people who napped for 45 to 60 minutes had lower blood pressure after going through mental stress. Hence, a little shut-eye may help your body recover from pressure-filled situations. Long Naps Long naps lasting 90 minutes to two hours will put you into a dreaming state or REM sleep. This type of longer nap allows you to go through every stage of the sleep cycle. A longer nap can help clear your mind, improve memory, and play a key role in making new connections in the brain. It helps to boost creativity and problem-solving. This is the best nap duration if you’re catching up on lost sleep. Catnap Caveats While there are many health benefits to be had from a catnap, there are a few drawbacks. As mentioned above, if you nap for more than 30 minutes and less than 90, it’s possible you could get sleep inertia, and it may take a while to feel fully alert again. If you snooze for too long or too late in the day, it can disrupt your nighttime sleep, especially if you suffer from sleeplessness or have any serious sleep issues. Napping Tips Perfecting the power nap is an art. Here are some tips to maximize the benefits of getting midday shut-eye! Nap regularly. Some research indicates that the benefits are greater for habitual nappers. Try to nap during the ideal time, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., as it’s less likely to disturb your nighttime sleep. Keep it short to start. Set a time for 20 minutes or less. Choose a quiet, dark place where you won’t be interrupted. Blocking out light will help you fall asleep faster. Wear an eye mask and/or ear plugs if you need to. Your body temperature may drop when you fall asleep. Make sure you’re warm enough, but not too warm! Be consistent. Nap around the same time each day. If your mind is busy ruminating, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. Don’t worry if you can’t fall asleep; research shows there are even benefits to resting with your eyes closed. Of course, if you find yourself napping too long or too often, it could be an indication of a health issue. Be sure to consult your healthcare physician. While napping is a great solution for many people, it isn’t for everyone. Some people just can’t sleep during the day, and that’s okay! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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