Natural Factors PS-IQ Memory - 60 Softgels

Natural Factors PS-IQ - Nutritional Support for Aging Minds

Phosphatidylserine or PS is a nutrient that shows much promise in improving cognitive function in most people, but especially as we age. PS belongs to a unique class of fat-soluble nutrients called phospholipids. PS is a building block for nerve cell membranes and through that revitalizes all nerve cell functions. Although it is contained in each cell membrane, PS is most highly concentrated in brain cells. PS can also cross the blood-brain barrier to produce brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that aid in memory - in particular acetylcholine.

Natural health practitioners recommend PS for Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss and depression. PS will benefit most persons because we are all subject to free radicals formed from breathing in cigarette smoke, alcohol consumption, environmental pollution, and/or chronic emotional stress-factors that have a cumulative negative effect on the brain.

Food for your Brain!

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.

Poor diet hampers the functioning of the central nervous system because it is an extremely vital area that has high metabolic requirements. The brain uses only the sugar, glucose, for energy. Unlike other body cells, it cannot use protein or fat if sugar is unavailable. Everyone has felt the foggy feeling in your head when your brain is lacking sugar. And then, after consuming a sugary snack or drink, the temporary increase in alertness you feel.

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. amino acids are obtained in the diet from protein and make up neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are nervous system hormones that coordinate brain cell functions. Several vitamins, especially B vitamins, are important for the production of neurotransmitters and the efficiency of nerve transmissions.

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.