ALL NATURAL ADVANTAGE
Natural Healthcare and Education
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ALL NATURAL ADVANTAGE Natural Healthcare and Education |
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Memory and Cognition Why
Do We Forget? Memory loss
has long been associated with ageing. It doesn’t need to be. The efficient
function of the memory depends on blood circulating to the cells, in this case
brain cells, and providing them with adequate nutrients. The brain is surrounded
by a protective barrier called the blood-brain barrier. As blood thickens (due
to poor diet) less is able to pass through this barrier, in turn reducing the
nutrients available for proper functioning of the brain. Damage often
occurs in areas of the brain that are important in memory. The protein beta-amyloid,
is naturally deposited during local injury and is used as a seal during a inflammatory
attack preventing haemorrhagic stroke. However
over production of this protein can induce neuronal cell death, particularly in
areas of the brain involved in memory and concentration. What
are some of the Contributing Factors?
Hormonal
Imbalances Strong links
exist between hormone levels and their effects on cognitive function. Hormonal
imbalances need to be considered when treating and preventing age related
deficits in memory and cognition, especially in relation to adrenal stress.
Stress
increases the stress hormone cortisol,
which is associated with ageing and neurological conditions. Memory impairments
thought of as part of normal ageing may be caused by the poor responses to
stress as we age. Oestrogen,
in its natural form, appears to prevent cognitive decline and promote the growth
and survival of certain neurones. This indicates an association between
menopausal decreases in oestrogen and memory loss. Cardiovascular
Risks Many of the
risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including
high
cholesterol, hypertension and atherosclerosis,
are also risk factors for age related neurodegenerative conditions such as
Alzheimer’s disease. Addressing these risk factors early is essential for
minimising future problems with neurological decline. Drug
Side Effects Prescription
drugs can interact and deplete certain nutrients that are crucial to memory and
cognition. Therefore it is essential to assess and correct possible deficiencies
in patients on relevant long-term medications. What
Are Neurotransmitters? Neurotransmitters
are vital for good brain function. They can be compared to the electrical wiring
and switches in your home, ensuring that messages are properly transmitted to,
from and around the brain. Neurotransmitters
are naturally occurring chemicals that relay messages between nerve cells
throughout the body. This process, which affects everything from muscle
contractions and blood flow to mental acuity, is dependent on an adequate supply
of the neurotransmitter precursors and cofactors in order to function properly.
Normal ageing is associated with a loss of neurotransmitters, their receptors
and general receptor responsiveness to neurotransmitters. A variety of
neurotransmitter dysfunctions are implicated in memory and cognitive deficits.
An easy way to assess neurotransmitter levels is via a Neurotransmitter
Evaluation Questionnaire,
which is available at this practice. It is quick and easy to complete. Call
today for your Neurotransmitter Evaluation Questionnaire. Herbal
Medicine Support There
are some well known herbs that have been found to protect and enhance brain
function to maintain memory function and support mental productivity. Ginkgo
(Ginkgo biloba) has an affinity for supporting the circulation of blood
flow to the brain, allowing adequate blood flow and nutrient supply. Bacopa
(Bacopa monniera), sometimes called Brahmi, is considered a brain tonic
to assist memory, concentration and learning. Being particularly useful when
stress is contributing to poor memory function. Kotu
Kola (Centella
asiatica) has traditionally been used for fatigue and assisting memory.
Traditionally Ayervedic medicine considers it to be a “brain stimulant”. Nutrient
Deficiencies All people
with memory loss will be deficient in particular nutrients and must be supported
with high levels of appropriate nutritional supplementation. Contributing
factors such as depression, drug addiction, poor digestion, thyroid and
metabolic problems must also be addressed accordingly. Nutrients
of particular importance: Ř
Vitamin
B12, B6 and folate:
low levels are associated with diminished memory and
increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease Ř
Omega-3
fatty acids (EPA / DHA):
involved
in down-regulating inflammation, maintenance of structure and fluidity of
neurones. Ř
Specific amino acids essential
for neuro-protection:
serine, proline, cysteine, leucine and threonine. Ř
Specific
nutrients that help with inflammation
(vitamins,
B, A, C, E and quercetin) and support fatty acids in cell membranes (cold
pressed oils – olive, palm, almond, avocado, fish and macadamia) For a full
assessment using a Comprehensive Health Questionnaire and a
Neurotransmitter
Evaluation Questionnaire, and
confirmation by salivary hormone
testing, contact me today so that a treatment plan can be
tailored to suit your needs and help you maintain your memory and cognition. For advice or to book a consultation call (03) 8802 7687 or email me.
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Disclaimer This website has no financial connection to the supplement or health products industry. The information on this website is provided as a guide to your healthcare options only. The All Natural Advantage website makes no statements, representations or warranties about the accuracy or completeness of, and should not be relied on as a sole source of information. We take no responsibility or liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for any expenses, losses, damages or costs you might incur as a result of the information being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason including but not limited to, you deciding whether or not to choose specific treatment based on the information. Please contact me or another qualified health professional before embarking on any health treatment program
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