People at any age need to have a sufficient amount of the various vitamins and minerals not just to sustain their physical health but also to keep their memory active and alert. A deficiency in some of the vital micronutrients may lead to a lesser ability of the neurotransmitters to process information and it may also affect memory recall functions. Although the brain cells which consist of axons as well as dendrites actually do not reach other, memory recall happens because the information jumps across each one of them. People are able to recall information through chemical substances that are released by the brain.
Memory problems may occur if the brain cannot produce enough neurotransmitters because of the lack of vitamins as well as minerals in the daily diet of people. It is important that people include foods that can provide their brains with the essential nutrients for it to produce the needed brain chemicals for optimum memory abilities. Vitamins B6 and B12 for example are needed for proper brain functions. Aside from these, people also need to get enough Folic Acid too from their daily food intake. They may include beef, chicken, eggs, yeast as well as oats, peanuts, brown rice, bananas, and other foods that are rich in Vitamin B6.
There have been some studies that were conducted which found out that individuals with more Vitamin B12 intake are better in memory performance tests. Older people may experience a little difficulty in remembering information because their bodies tend to absorb less Vitamin B12. It is then necessary for them to see to it that they are able to get the needed nutrient from foods such as poultry, fish, yogurt, milk, and clams aside from meat. Those who are about 60 years old or more may need to take vitamin supplements but they will have to consult first with their doctors if they really need it. People also need Folate though not as much as B12. Folate also contributes to the production of the right level of brain chemicals for memory recall.
People especially those who are growing old need to have enough supply of Vitamin E too. They may be able to lessen problems such as Alzheimer’s disease as proven in some studies that found out the effects of this vitamin on the memory of elderly people. They can get enough of this nutrient from almonds, blueberries, sunflower seeds, papaya, olives, spinach, and other foods. People may also include foods like certain kinds of fishes that are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids in order to prevent the development of Alzheimer’s as well.