How to improve brain function and memory

The modern world places high demands on people living in it in relation to psychological activities. Sometimes it is necessary to perform multiple tasks in different areas of knowledge at the same time.

Without additional "feeding" brain cells, a correct lifestyle, and maintaining a normal body shape and good nutrition, this is impossible. Therefore, suggestions on how to improve brain function and memory in various ways will interest all readers.

Brain cells and memory

Over the years, with the increase of age, not only the human body gets older, but the brain, its thinking ability and the neural connections in the cells are deteriorating, the volume of gray matter gradually decreases, and its cognitive ability (thinking, understanding, accepting)Ability) learning, reasoning and logical reasoning). Concentration and memory loss are the primary signs of a person's decline in thinking ability, which usually decreases with age.

Causes of memory and brain damage

  • Injuries and injuries after surgery, previous diseases (stroke, concussion, etc. );
  • Some internal diseases: infectious, kidney disease, etc. ;
  • Age-related physical changes;
  • Using alcohol, drugs, antidepressants, smoking;
  • Wrong lifestyle: stress, lack of sleep, work overload.

To slow down these negative processes, scientists recommend trying the following rules to keep your body and brain healthy:

  • Maintain good physical activity and exercise regularly;
  • Adhere to diet and normal weight, eat foods that can improve brain function;
  • Control cholesterol and blood sugar levels;
  • Quit smoking and other bad habits;
  • Maintain normal blood pressure levels;
  • If necessary, you can consult an expert who prescribes the necessary drugs to learn how to improve brain function.

Nootropic substances:

Nootropics are substances and preparations that stimulate positive effects on human brain tissue, increase its efficiency, improve memory, help and promote the process of memory and learning, and stimulate cognitive function. They can also improve the "clarity" of the mind under any even extreme conditions. They are based on organic ingredients. The modern pharmaceutical industry produces drugs and pills that can improve brain function.

10 substances that improve memory and intellectual performance:

  • Flavonols-activate the production of the hormone endorphins in the body, adding joy and happiness. They stimulate the transmission of nerve impulses in brain cells, increasing vitality and mobility. These substances include dark chocolate.
  • Lecithin-a component of human cells, a phospholipid involved in the production of enzymes and hormones; it is converted into acetylcholine together with vitamin B5, thereby accelerating the process of neural processes and reactions (neurotransmitters); common in eggs, Beef and chicken liver, fatty fish, beans, nuts and seeds.
  • Caffeine-found in coffee and green tea, its intake helps focus, increase productivity and stimulate the brain, but after a while, brain activity will decrease.
  • L-Theanine-an amino acid (found in green tea) that helps prolong brain activity and improve performance without further degradation.
  • Creatine-an organic nitrous acid naturally produced in active sports activities, helps increase muscle growth and cell response, saves the brain's energy reserves, and improves analytical thinking.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (found in marine fish, nuts, seeds)-improve memory, relieve depression and stress, and prevent aging.
  • L-tyrosine is an amino acid that can help produce adrenaline and the neurotransmitter dopamine, increase fatigue threshold, concentrate attention, and have a positive effect on the endocrine system.
  • B vitamins-help restore nerve cells and improve brain function.
  • Acetyl L-carnitine is an amino acid that can relieve chronic fatigue, improve memory and brain cell function, maintain balance and carbohydrate metabolism, and affect sexual performance.
  • Ginkgo biloba dry extract is the strongest nootropic drug named by the tree of the same name; its leaves contain glycosides, flavonoids and terpenes, which together stimulate brain activity, improve memory and emotional stability.

Products that regulate brain cell activity:

Lifestyle and nutrition are the main factors affecting human intellectual activity. Scientific research shows that there are many foods that can improve memory and brain function.

Including:

Fatty fish (sardines, salmon, trout, etc. ) have a positive effect on mental abilities due to the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids; by eating fatty acids, one can provide them for the reproduction of nerve cells in the brain (itself is 60% fat)It can also delay the aging process, and even prevent the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease.
  • Black coffee adds essential substances to the human body: caffeine and antioxidants block the work of adenosine (prevent sleepiness and improve the positive perception of reality), stimulate the production of serotonin, thereby improving mood, and helpTo improve the concentration of mental work.
  • Dark chocolate (contains at least 80% cocoa) contains beneficial substances that are beneficial to improve brain function: flavonoids, caffeine and antioxidants, which can improve memory and help slow age-related brain cell changes and improve mood.
  • Nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds)-contain useful vitamins B and E, trace elements (magnesium) and antioxidants, and the daily intake is up to 100 grams.
  • Blueberries are berries. Due to the content of anthocyanins, berries not only have a positive effect on visual acuity, but also have a relieving effect on the brain and can also relieve depression.
  • Oranges and lemons are sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the brain from free radicals.
  • Broccoli-contains fat-soluble vitamin K (essential for brain cell fat formation and improving memory) and antioxidants, which help overcome diseases related to brain damage. ​​
  • Pumpkin seeds are a source of magnesium, zinc, iron and copper, which affect the human nervous system, learning and memory.
  • Eggs are the source of many nutrients (folate, choline, vitamin B6 and B12).
  • The effect of physical activity on the brain

    Even a simple night walk in the fresh air has a beneficial effect on brain health. Maintain high-intensity exercise and exercise with a certain load. Participating in sports is one of the ways to improve brain function. It helps to improve the intelligence of any age group and the elderly to deal with minor cognitive impairments.

    Scientists recommend aerobic exercise, short-term training, yoga and meditation to improve blood flow to the brain and maintain good physical condition.

    Mediterranean diet

    Many scientists believe that the Mediterranean diet contains the best diet rich in healthy vegetables and fruits, legumes and whole grains, as well as nuts and olive oil. They have positive effects and provide long-term protection for the brain.

    The diet also includes a small amount of dairy products, sea fish and various wines. The restriction is the use of red meat, poultry and processed finished products.

    Thinking training

    One of the most effective ways to improve memory and brain function is to train your thinking skills every day. These methods include: solving crossword puzzles and Sudoku, learning new foreign languages. According to the conclusions of Finnish scientists from the University of Helsinki, the latter helps to improve the cognitive abilities of the elderly and even the elderly, make the mind "sharp" and help its flexibility.

    The more people understand foreign languages, the faster the brain's neural network will respond to the accumulation of new information. Therefore, both children and adults are encouraged to practice new languages ​​to prevent cognitive decline with age.

    Regardless of the age of students, learning to play musical instruments has a positive effect on memory and brain cells. Sound reproduction has a protective effect, can change brain waves and improve hearing.

    Cognitive training

    Nootropic drugs:

    The work of the human brain and memory is usually affected by the external environment, so many people believe that they need treatment and turn to experts to advise which drugs can improve memory and brain function. All such drugs and tablets can only be taken under the guidance of a doctor.

    However, in emergencies (diploma defense, courses, exams, etc. ), self-administering such drugs can help focus and improve brain activity in a short time.

    Which drugs can improve brain function and can be sold without a prescription

    • Glycine is a popular and cheap "head vitamin" that can regulate sleep, mental activity and improve mood. It must be taken for at least 30 days.
    • Gamma-aminobutyric acid-a prescription drug used to treat head injuries, helps eliminate toxins and normalize nerve processes.
    • Ginkgo biloba dry extract-a preparation made from leaf extract, can be used for sleep disorders, dizziness, memory and attention impairment, can normalize brain cell and tissue metabolism (not prescribed until 18 years old).

    Prescription drugs to improve memory and brain function:

    • Piracetam and similar drugs-drugs that help students pass the course smoothly, prescribed for memory and attention disorders in elderly patients-used to treat Alzheimer's disease.
    • Vinpocetine-prescribed to improve brain metabolism and treat the cephalic vascular circulation resulting from stroke.
    • Catechol dihydrochloride monohydrate-used to reduce mental performance, help normalize the metabolic process of nerve tissue, and treat atherosclerosis and childhood encephalopathy.
    • Porcine Brain Peptide Complex-sold in ampoules for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, stroke, etc.

    You should carefully read the instructions for all drugs, because most drugs have adverse side effects and contraindications.

    Rules for taking nootropic drugs:

    Before starting to take medications that improve memory and brain function, you must consult a specialist and consider the following important rules:

    • The dosage and course of treatment should be selected according to the patient’s age, his health and physical characteristics, and whether there are any accompanying diseases;
    • Herbal preparations or supplements are not always harmless and harmless to the human body. Allergic reactions, contraindications and unexpected side effects may occur;
    • To find positive or negative changes in the work of the brain and memory, it is necessary to test regularly, write down your observations and perform a series of special exercises;
    • In order to choose the best pills that can improve brain function, it is best to alternate their intake and observe the effects on the body, which will help determine the most suitable medicine.

    The development of children's thinking and memory

    Medications and drugs are not always suitable for children. On the contrary, due to the possible undesirable consequences, it is recommended not to use many of them for under 18 years of age. Before deciding on a drug prescription, it is best to consult a pediatrician and neurologist.

    This is due to the fact that children’s decreased concentration and memory are the result of any disease, and only a doctor can decide how to improve the function of the children’s brain after examination: with the help of drugs, vitamins or changes in lifestyle and habits, prescription dietAnd use foods that help stimulate brain cells to work.

    Folk recipes to improve memory

    Over the years, traditional medicine has collected many recipes, these recipes have a positive effect on a person's memory and improve concentration:

    • Infuse clover flowers-prepared from 2 tablespoons. l. 2 tablespoons of dried plants. Hot water, pour all food into a thermos for 2 hours, then filter and drink 100 grams half an hour before meals, duration-3 months;
    • Chopped red rowan peel soup: 1 tablespoon. l. The mass is 250 grams of water, boiled and left for 6 hours, drink 1 tablespoon 3 times a day. l. Course-30 days a year, and then rest every year-at least 3 cycles;
    • Eat 2-3 young pine buds. Twice a day before meals.

    Conclusion

    If you have memory problems, dizziness, insomnia, depression or other symptoms, you first need to see a doctor and conduct a thorough examination to find out the source and cause of these negative processes. After receiving the expert's results and suggestions, it is possible to start treatment and take drugs that can improve brain function and memory.