Memory Pro

Description

Cognitive decline is one of the more common concerns discussed in my office. Not often discussed are the root causes of dementia that can be brewing in your system for decades prior to the onset of symptoms. More recently in the news is the awareness of Type-3 Diabetes as a tag for Dementia. This speaks to the prolonged over consumption of sugar and its impact on the nervous system and inevitable damage from elevated sugars levels. Rarely discussed is the model of Toxicity in neurologic decline. Practicing Functional Medicine in Pittsburgh for 28 years, it should be referenced that we breathe the 14th worst air quality in America. There are around 170 non-metallic “Forever Chemicals” that are lipo-phyllic, Meaning that they store in the fatty tissue of your body, such as the brain. As well, toxic metals such as Aluminum, Antimony, Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, Mercury are capable of storing in brain matter. If your system is slow at detoxifying, these chemicals can accumulate over time and begin the process of damaging the nerve cells. Slow detoxification is a genetic predisposition modifying the speed that your body is capable of removing toxic exposures from your system. Functional Medicine Practitioners are well versed at facilitating detoxification of Metals and Non-Metal toxins that can store in the brain, Other predispositions to cognitive decline are genetic in nature though the APOE gene. Many Functional Medicine Doctors are well versed in analysis of the Methylation gene pathway where this APOE predisposition resides. The good news, management of any and all of the above predisposition are available and rather easy to identify, track and manage.

Taking clinically accepted and published nutritional supplementation  to support neurologic brain health is a fantastic step to take along with specific lifestyle changes and Functional Medicine pursuit of preventative root causes.. This Cognitive Support formula combines acetyl-l-carnitine, phospholipids and herbal extracts to promote neural health, cognitive function and memory. Research suggests that acetyl-l-carnitine supports memory in older adults.¹ Phosphatidylserine is an important cell membrane component critical for neuron function and communication. Research suggests that it promotes healthy neurotransmitter levels and spatial memory.² The Ayurvedic herb Bacopa monniera promotes memory as well as mental function and information processing.³ Ginkgo biloba promotes cerebral blood flow, vascular integrity and healthy red blood cell and platelet function in the brain.⁴ Lutein and zeaxanthinare the primary carotenoids in the macula, but also have been identified as the primary carotenoids in the brain. Research studies have found a positive association between lutein and zeaxanthin intake, macular pigment density and cognitive function. This association is believed to be due to antioxidant defense and cytokine balance properties, helping to promote neuronal membrane stability and function.⁵ Curcumin, resveratrol and lemon balm extracts help to protect neurons from oxidative stress. Additionally, curcuminoids and resveratrol support healthy vascular tissue in the brain by promoting phagocytosis and proteosome activity.^6,7 The soothing properties of lemon balm are highlighted in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, indicating that it promoted relaxation and cognitive function in elderly individuals.^8‡