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Memory lapses are sometimes nothing more than a nuisance, for instance when you are trying to remember the title of that book, but the name escapes you or when you’ve forgotten where you put your keys again.  However, memory problems can be a result of more serious problems and can cause a great deal of anxiety and confusion for those suffering from recurrent memory problems.  Even when the problem is not a serious one, such as Alzheimer’s or Dementia, difficulty in remembering things can bring on worry and cause feelings of fear.

As we age it is generally expected that our memory’s become less powerful than they used to be.  Our ability to recall information is said to progressively slow down as we age.  However, researchers believe now that this is not necessarily the case.  In fact, aging has little to do with the ability to remember, barring serious illness.  Proper exercise and diet can nourish the brain thereby protecting the body against memory loss.  It is only when the body is malnourished, or thick with cholesterol and triglycerides, that the amount of rich nutrient blood is prohibited from feeding the brain.  This then results in a decrease in brain functioning including memory.

So if you would like to help keep your memory intact, feeding your body and brain are the best defenses.  Preventing exposure to free radicals and fighting them off with antioxidant rich foods is one of the best ways to maintain memory function.  Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption as well will keep your brain functioning at optimal level.  Alcohol and drug abuse frequently lead to blackouts and poor memory ability.

Garlic is one of the best supplements for memory and may improve any age-related memory deficits.  Vitamin B Complex is needed for memory function and helps all essential brain functions.  Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can also improve circulation.  Zinc, likewise, is important in the removal of harmful substances and can bind toxic substances and remove them from the brain.

Ginko Biloba has received a great deal of attention as a memory aid.  It helps to increase blood flow to the brain and central nervous system.  This then helps to improve brain and memory functions.  Make sure also to take a multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure that your body and brain are getting all of the nutrients they need.

Most importantly, keeping yourself mentally agile will help ensure that your brain stays healthy.  Increasingly research has shown that those individuals who continue to learn new things, challenge themselves, and stay engaged both mentally and physically have a lesser chance of suffering from mental deterioration than those who do not.  Picking up a new language, learning a new instrument, or simply reading a new book will help.  The old saying holds true for the memory and brain as much as it does for other things, use it or lose it!