Important Nutrients For The Brain

The human brain, a true miracle of evolution, is a delicate, sensitive instrument. Its chemical balance plays a major part in how it functions. Many of the substances found within the brain that are so important to its optimum performance are directly related to the nutrients that we consume. In fact, research has shown that certain vitamins are very important to brain function and even to the protection of that functioning.

Free radicals can cause serious damage in the brain, and because of the brain's specialized functions that require the some of highest levels of oxygen in the body, the brain is the place in the body that free radicals are most able to do their damage. Free radical damage in the brain includes memory loss and the decrease of cognitive ability. Some studies indicate that unchecked free radical damage may play a great role in Alzheimer's disease.

That makes such anti-oxidant vitamins as C and E very important to the health and functioning of the brain. These two vitamins in conjunction have been found to slow memory loss and recent studies have shown that they can even offer significant protection against Alzheimer's disease, as well as against certain types of age-related dementia. Sufficient folic acid, part of the Vitamin B Complex, intake has also been associated with a decrease in the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

The Vitamin B complex is known to be essential to the proper functioning of the brain. Those lacking in these vitamins can suffer from various types of dementia, confusion, short-term memory loss, and certain types of mental illness. Maintaining proper levels of Vitamin B complex nutrients can improve verbal memory.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for memory, as well as is Phosphatidylserine or PS. PS has been found to play a role in the production of the chemicals that act as neurotransmitters, which is part of the way the brain communicates and affects, among many things, memory. Ginko bilboa is a supplement that has been found in some studies to offer protection against age-related memory loss. A recent study in Britain found that depriving the body of iron can actually reduce the IQ level. It is truly amazing the power that nutrition hold over the brain.

In today's fast food culture, a result of society moving at a more rapid pace than ever before, nutrition all too often suffers. This is especially the case for children, and is very unfortunate, as proper nutrition is an essential part brain development and function. In order to fully meet their intellectual potentials, children must meet the suggested daily intake levels of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Drive through cuisine and prepackaged, over processed so-called convenience foods simply cannot provide what the brain really needs.

For the best brain development and performance, as well as for potential protection against some of the most devastating brain diseases, proper nutrition is essential. If you find that you or your family does not regularly consume the recommended daily requirements of the several vitamins and minerals that are known to support brain development and function, you may want to consider making nutritional supplements a part of the daily routine.