The importance of supplements for brain health cannot be overstated. You should prioritize omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation reduction, B vitamins for cognitive protection, phospholipids for neuronal support, and antioxidants to protect your brain from oxidative stress.
In Indiana, over 120,000 people are currently living with Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Cognitive decline is a common issue associated with aging, but there are ways to slow and even prevent it.
Don't simply surrender to brain decline as you age. Rather, give yourself a fighting chance against dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
For residents of Huntington, IN, getting enough brain-supporting nutrients and living healthily are the best ways to support brain function as you age. Learn what supplements are good for brain health so you can take steps to boost your mind and limit future cognitive decline.
Brain health is crucial for seniors. A healthy brain supports memory, decision-making, and daily functioning, helping seniors maintain:
Keeping your brain at its best can help prevent and delay natural brain decline and conditions like Alzheimer's and dementia. It also boosts mood by enhancing social engagement and allowing you to enjoy more hobbies and activities.
Using the correct supplements complements a healthy diet and physical exercise in supporting cognitive health for seniors. These are some of the best:
Regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids through supplements or diet enhances cognitive well-being and delays decline. Studies show that higher omega-3 levels correlate with:
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, play a vital role in protecting brain health. They support neuronal structure and function by:
According to a study by Sahebi, S., and Rezvani Khakuki, B., DHA is a key component of brain cell membranes, and omega-3 can also help lower the beta-amyloid plaques related to Alzheimer's disease.
Eating salmon and taking fish oil supplements are good ways to include omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.
Vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and B12 lower the homocysteine levels linked to cognitive decline and dementia. They support:
Around 400 mcg/day of vitamin B9 and 2.4 mcg/day of vitamin B12 are recommended for reducing cognitive performance risk. Vitamin B6 at a rate of 1.7 mcg/day has been shown to enhance attention and working memory in older adults.
Other B vitamins can also play a role in brain health, i.e.,
Good sources of vitamin B include eggs and greens or B-complex supplements with folate.
Phospholipids form the core structure of cell membranes, especially neurons. They protect brain health in aging adults by maintaining membrane fluidity, supporting signal transmission, and combating oxidative stress.
Key types of phospholipids include:
These lipids maintain hippocampal volume and synaptic integrity to counter age-related neuron loss and brain atrophy. DHA-rich phospholipids enhance neuroplasticity as age-related decline occurs, helping preserve memory and learning as long as possible.
In this way, phospholipid supplements promote mitochondrial function and repair to help improve:
Apart from store-bought supplements, eggs, soy, and fish are good sources of these important fat-like molecules.
Reactive oxygen species accumulate during aging, accelerating cognitive decline, inflammation, and diseases like Alzheimer's. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that cause oxidative stress and neuronal damage in aging adults.
Compounds like vitamins C and E scavenge harmful radicals, helping preserve DNA integrity in brain tissue and preserve cell membranes. They reduce lipid peroxidation, which is vital for maintaining neuronal function during age-related cognitive decline.
Studies by Claudio Nazzi, Alessio Avenanti, et al., show that higher antioxidant intakes correlate with better memory and executive function while lowering dementia risk.
Consuming fruits, vegetables, nuts, and high-quality over-the-counter supplements helps:
A large study, conducted in 2023 by Maryam Ghahremani, Eric E. Smith, et al., showed that dementia incidence was 40% lower in people who had been exposed to vitamin D. This has prompted further investigation into whether vitamin D supplements might reduce dementia risk.
There isn't any quick fix when it comes to sustained good health, but you can take steps toward maintaining and boosting your brain function. The following healthy aging habits contribute to lasting cognitive health:
Starting the day off right sets the tone for a healthy and engaged day. Try these brain wellness tips first thing every morning to get your mind off to a good start:
These small steps set the tone for a healthy and fulfilling day and can help improve brain function over time.
Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, phospholipids, and antioxidants supply proven assistance for aging brains, helping you stay sharp and avoid memory decline. Now you know what supplements are good for brain health; you can include them in your diet and support them by enjoying the most active and engaging lifestyle possible.
At Tipton Place Assisted Living, you can count on us to provide you with all the nutritional guidance and engaging activities you need to keep your mind healthy. Our chef-prepared dining options are crafted with your mental health in mind, and our activities program offers many ways to keep your mind active every day.
We've created the perfect environment for you to age well while keeping your mind and body at their best. Schedule a tour to learn more about our vibrant and friendly community.