Improving focus and memory
With the high cognitive load of the modern life we tend to lose focus and all too often feel that our memory is not as sharp as it should be. This is due to multiple factors in the brain that can become depleted and cannot be replenished as required. Our brains needs to be taken care of in the same way we need to take care of our gut, metabolic machinery and immune system. We cannot expect our brains to perform at maximum capacity without giving it sufficient breaks, fuel, servicing and maintenance.
We need to first understand what the requirements of our brains are before we can take care of them.
Energy demand
Our brains are very energy dependent and its main energy source is glucose. However, the conversion of glucose to the energy form it requires, oxidant byproducts are formed. Damaging oxidant byproducts can be neutralized with antioxidants, which needs to be at sufficient levels to perform the task. Insulin is required by the brain cells to allow glucose to be used as an energy source, but also limit too much glucose to enter and with excessive glucose in the blood for long periods the brain cells become insulin resistant. This cause the brain to become energy deprived which can affect its performance. The alternative energy source is ketones which is a “cleaner” form of energy and is not regulated by insulin. It is generated by the break down of fatty acids (fat) and its metabolism does not produce damaging oxidants. A healthy source of ketones are MCT oil that is isolated from coconut oil.
Hormones
Various hormones play a role in brain function including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin which are involved in mood, memory and cognitive function. Keeping your hormones balanced naturally throughout your lifetime appears most beneficial for brain health. Getting enough quality sleep is the number one factor to ensure prober hormone balances. A healthy diet which include healthy fats, fibers and protein as well as the wide spectrum of vitamins and nutrients is essential.
Nootripics
Improving Mood and a Healthy state of mind
Our mood can be affected by various external events and situations and state of our brain can determine how we cope and deal with situations. Serotonin is a major determinant factor of our mood. Too little serotonin cause us to be depressed and not capable of performing and initiating tasks, however, too much serotonin cause us to be anxious and fearful. Various supplements can be taken to assist us to restore hormonal balance and also provide the elements required by the brain such as magnesium.