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Health March 2016

Dear Pharmacist

5 Ways to Save Your Brain, Learn Faster and Calm Down

By Suzy Cohen

Acetyl L carnitine. It’s capable of repairing brain cells (neurons) and it is known to prevent age-related memory decline. It turns into acetylcholine in the brain which can help you with learning. Doctors often suggest it for stroke victims.

I lost my car at the mall and had to ask the security guy to drive me around and find it. I was practically in tears after roaming around the parking lot for 20 minutes. At the time, I just thought, “I’m losing my mind, how do I not remember this?!”

Then I thought about it; I have a hundred million thoughts in my head, and I parked at a location I never usually park in near a store I never go to. And I had been wrapped up in an important and intense conversation on the phone (while I was driving and parking) and… are you assuming these are excuses? Maybe so. But it made me think that memory loss, and other injuries of the brain could impact your quality of life. It’s scary. 

Your brain should be properly “fed” and “exercised”’ and in good shape. I can teach you how to save your brain, and support yourself if you’re dealing with memory issues, brain fog, or mild issues related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) or toxic encephalopathy.

I’m only offering suggestions to save your brain today, I’m not sure what’s safe for you or effective for your individual condition so please speak to your neurologist before trying any of these supplements.

  • Fatty Acids. Why not? Your brain is made of fat. Fat is an integral part of your brain, so it’s first up for that reason. One of the most important types of supplements you can take would be something high in DHA, docosahexaenoic acid. You’ll find DHA in supplements labeled “DHA” as well as in salmon oil, fish oils, chia seed oil and krill.

  • Mullein Root. A little harder to find, it has mild anti-spasmodic effect. Since it has an affinity for facial nerves, some holistic doctors suggest mullein for Bell’s palsy, trigeminal neuralgia or other facial nerve pain syndromes associated with brain-injury.

  • Acetyl L carnitine. It’s capable of repairing brain cells (neurons) and it is known to prevent age-related memory decline. It turns into acetylcholine in the brain which can help you with learning. Doctors often suggest it for stroke victims.

  • Ginkgo biloba. A well-known herb that sends blood up to your brain and it could help with both short and long-term memory. It seems to help balance the various catecholamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, adrenalin) as well as serotonin and cortisol levels! Taken together this can help revitalize a fading memory, reduce anxiety and improve your mood.

  • Ashwagandha. This is known to help with thyroid function over time by raising thyroid hormone levels but it can make you sleepy. Studies suggest that it’s a good choice if you have insomnia related to any brain injury, including TBI.

For a more comprehensive list of brain-saving supplements, please sign up for my newsletter at suzycohen.com and I’ll send you the extended version of this in a newsletter.

 

A licensed pharmacist for over 22 years Suzy Cohen shares the pros and cons of medication use as well as natural substitutions for most any of your health concerns. Send questions to her at www.dearpharmacist.com.

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