Memory lapses affect everyone at some point in time.  They are frustrating and can become worrisome if one thinks that their memory capacity is decreasing. 

Although the brain and nervous system is somewhat protected from factors which can invade other body cells, its segregation also makes it prone to the build-up of toxins and other harmful agents. 

Because it contains a significant amount of fat, fat-soluble toxins like heavy metals, and environmental chemicals, like DDT, can concentrate in the brain leading to poor memory.  Poor diet hampers memory because the brain is an extremely vital area that has high metabolic requirements. 

The brain uses only the sugar, glucose, for energy.  Fluctuating blood sugar is not conducive to optimal brain functioning and memory.  Fats, amino acids and vitamins must also be in abundant supply for nervous system functioning.  The brain and nerve sheaths are made of fats that are deficient in the standard North American diet.  This results in compromised nerve conduction and brain cell communication, which can compromise memory.  Stress and emotional upset impact on memory by depleting neurotransmitters and leading to a build –up of damaging agents called free radicals.  Free radicals have been associated with the degeneration of the brain.

If memory changes are a concern please see a health professional.  Memory change can be a sign of depression, arteriosclerosis or other degenerative brain conditions.  The side effect of some medications can lead to memory lapses.  Included in this are diuretics and anti-depressants

The brain develops by leaps and bounds during fetal life and childhood as neural patterns are laid and areas of the brain mature.  As we age, declines in brain function are widely accepted as “normal” but there are many preventative and natural therapies one can use to maximize brainpower and memory.

As they say, “if you don’t use it you will lose it.”   Keeping mentally busy and learning new things has been found to sustain brain functioning.  Regular exercise and deep breathing increases circulation to the brain. Make time in your schedule for enjoyable activity and sufficient rest.  Have regular sleep pattern because fatigue greatly contributes to memory lapses

Undergo regular detoxification, under the guidance of a health professional, to rid the body of toxins.  Drink 2L of filtered water daily to help to flush toxins from the system.  Essential fatty acids stabilize the nerve sheath.  Flax, pumpkin and sunflower seed oils should be a daily addition to the diet.  Fish also contain essential fatty acids but are usually contaminated with heavy metals. 

Saturated fats from animal sources, margarine and shortening interfere with the use of essential fatty acids and should be avoided.  Consume foods that are high in lecithin and B vitamins including green, leafy vegetables, nutritional yeast and soy products.  Eat more fibre and protein, as it helps to stabilize blood sugar.

The following list of supplements can be used to enhance memory and improve overall brain health.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS)