Top 10 Natural Ways to Boost Your Memory

Do you take your memory for granted? As we age, it is one of the first things to diminish, but there are alternatives to conventional medication with these natural tips from Veria. Whether we forget something small yet annoying, or have a much more serious memory loss from dementia or Alzheimer's, these 10 natural memory boosters are sure to help.

1) Exercise Your Way to Good Memory - Exercise is in fact proven to increase levels of brain chemicals that encourage the growth of nerve cells and improve memory. Regular exercise helps your brain by promoting the production of new nerve cells, strengthening neural synapses and increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Walking increases blood circulation, so that as you walk, you effectively oxygenate your brain. Maybe this is why walking is said to clear one’s head in times of duress.

2) Get in your vitamins - Substances that are rich in antioxidants, B-complex vitamins, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids are shown to improve and enhance memory. You can increase your intake of antioxidants like carotenoids, vitamin E and vitamin C by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.

3) Engage in fun brain activities - Use your non-dominant hand in everyday activities - to control the computer mouse, brush your teeth, dial the phone, operate the remote, eat and even write. Another great activity is to try is to dress yourself with your eyes closed.

4) Eat Your Way to Good Memory - Eating brain-healthy foods may help to prevent age-related memory loss. Foods like legumes, grains, leafy vegetables, blueberries and cranberries are among those suspected to enhance memory and may even play a role in the development of new brain cells.

5) Make sure you get enough Zinc - Zinc deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the elderly and has been suggested to be a major factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

6) Try these herbs  – Brahmi, Ashwagandha and Shankha pushpin (Convolvulus pluricaulis) are three natural herbs that have been demonstrated to improve memory:

7) Stretch your mind - Play games like chess, Sudoku, and crossword puzzles. Learn a new language – it’s never too late to start picking up something new!

8) Try Ginkgo - Widely used in naturopathy for treating Alzheimer's disease. It improves blood flow in the brain and contains flavonoids that act as antioxidants. Ginkgo may improve thinking, learning, and memory in those with Alzheimer's disease.

9) Drink some wine – Resveratrol is flavonoid found in red wine and grape juice. It is an antioxidant that may benefit people with Alzheimer's disease.

10) Practice yoga - The regular practice of yoga asanas—particularly inverted postures like Sirasasana and Sarvangasana—has been proven to improve blood flow in the brain, and in turn improve thinking, learning, and memory.