Take This to Improve Your Memory

Like the rest of the body, the brain changes as we begin to get older. Cognitive function, or the brain’s capacity for reasoning and memory amongst other things begins to change, resulting in more frequent instances of forgetfulness and the ability to make connections between different parts of information stored in your brain. While there are several reasons for that to happen, part of it is due to physiological changes that happen in the brain, such as the shrinkage of the hippocampus, the area that plays a major role in learning and memory.

While some experts believe it starts to decline from around 60, other research published in the British Medical Journal suggests it can happen from the age of 45. It is worth noting though that serious changes to cognitive function that are common with different forms of dementia are not considered normal and should always be investigated by a healthcare professional.

Folic acid is important for functioning of the nervous system at all ages thanks to the part it plays in red blood cell formation and healthy cell function and growth. It also aids in the production of DNA and RNA, the body's genetic material. Although research is ongoing, studies suggest that cognitive diseases such as dementia might be linked to low folate levels and high homocysteine levels. Along with vitamins B6 and B12, Vitamin B9 works to control blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, ensuring they don’t rise dangerously high.

Research carried out at the Wageningen University in the Netherlands showed a correlation between high doses of folic acid in healthy participants aged between 50 and 75 and improved memory.

To ensure you get enough folate in your diet, make sure you eat plenty of dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and peas, as well as oranges, bananas and strawberries. If you struggle to get enough via your diet alone then consider a good quality supplement; the NHS recommendation is to have around 200mcg of folate a day.