A Guide to the Top 10 Vitamins for Memory Improvement

by Tawni Dansie June 22, 2022

Do you often forget things? Are you struggling to focus at work or in school? It may be time to start taking some vitamins for memory improvement!

In fact, it is known that taking vitamins can have a tremendous impact on your well-being, both physiological and psychological. However, the right supplements have to be taken at the right time and at the right dose.

In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 vitamins that can help improve your memory. We will also provide information on how each vitamin can help and what dosage is recommended.

So don't wait any longer - read on for information about the best vitamins for memory improvement!

The Suggested Science Behind Memory Operation

There are a few different ways that scientists believe memory works. One is the encoding, storage, and retrieval model.

This model suggests that memories are first encoded into the brain. Once they are stored, they can then be retrieved when needed.

Another model is the working memory model. This model suggests that there is a limited amount of information that can be held in the mind at any given time.

This information is then processed and stored in long-term memory. Regardless of which model is correct, it is clear that vitamins play an important role in memory function.

How Is Memory Capability Measured?

There are a few different ways to measure memory. One common way is to use the digit span test. This test measures how many digits a person can remember after hearing them once.

Another way to measure memory is through the use of word lists. In this type of test, a person is presented with a list of words and then asked to recall as many as possible.

Other means to measure memory are through the use of story recall tasks or picture recognition tasks. In a story recall task, a person is presented with a short story and then asked to recall as much detail as possible.

In a picture recognition task, a person is shown a series of pictures and then asked to identify which ones they have seen before.

Journaling is also a great way to measure memory. By keeping a journal, you can track your daily thoughts and activities. This can be a useful tool for identifying patterns in your memory.

Do Minerals and Vitamins Impact Our Memory?

Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that the body needs to function properly.

They can be obtained through diet or supplementation. Minerals are inorganic, meaning they cannot be made by the body. Vitamins are organic and can be either water-soluble or fat-soluble.

Water-soluble vitamins do not retain in the physical body. Hence, they must be consumed on an everyday basis.

Fat-soluble vitamins retain within the liver. They can be consumed less frequently because of this.

Both minerals and vitamins can impact memory function. For example, iron is a mineral that is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood.

Oxygen is important for brain function. Therefore, iron deficiency has an effect linked to cognitive impairment and memory problems.

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for the nervous system. A lack of vitamin B12 has an effect on cognitive decline and memory problems.

The Physiological Benefits of Memory Improvement

Regardless of the means of memory improvement, be it vitamins or cognitive exercises, the benefits are the same. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

improved mental clarity
better focus and concentration
increased ability to remember information
improved cognitive function
reduced risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease

When your memory improves, you can expect to see a number of benefits in your daily life. You will be able to remember information more easily and have better mental clarity.

Your focus and concentration will also improve. Additionally, you may see a reduction in your risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Is There a Plateau/Risk to Improved Memory?

There is no evidence to suggest that there is a plateau or risk associated with memory improvement. In fact, the opposite may be true. As you age, your risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease increases.

Therefore, it is important to take steps to improve your memory function. This can be done through diet, supplementation, cognitive exercises, or a combination of all three.

However, the chemical means to achieve greater memory can have an effect on other brain processes. For instance, acetylcholine-boosting nootropics may have an effect on other neurotransmitters.

This can lead to a number of side effects, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Therefore, it is important to speak with a doctor before starting any memory improvement regimen.

Albeit, this isn't always the case because the quantities are so low that they may have little to no effect.

In short, the jury is still out on whether or not exogenous vitamins and minerals can impact our memory. However, there are many other ways to improve memory function.

How Do Cognitive Exercises Improve Memory?

Cognitive exercises are activities that help to improve brain function. They can help to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. There are many different types of cognitive exercises, but some examples include:

memory games
puzzles
brain teasers
crosswords
Sudoku games

Cognitive exercises work by providing the brain with stimulation. This stimulation helps to form new connections between neurons.

These connections allow for better communication between different areas of the brain. This improved communication can lead to better memory function.

How Do Vitamins Improve Memory?

Vitamins improve memory by supporting the brain and nervous system. They do this in a few different ways. First, vitamins provide the brain with the nutrients it needs to function properly.

Second, vitamins help protect the brain from damage. Third, vitamins can help improve blood flow to the brain. Fourth, some vitamins can directly impact memory function.

The actual science behind vitamin relation and brain health is complex and ever-changing. What we do know is that vitamins play an important role in brain function. This includes a memory function.

Vitamins can help to improve memory by providing the brain with nutrients, protecting the brain from damage, and improving blood flow to the brain.

Are Memory Changes From Vitamins Permanent or Temporary?

The effects of vitamins on memory are usually temporary. This means that if you stop taking the vitamin, your memory will likely return to its previous state.

However, some vitamins may have long-term effects on memory. For example, vitamin B12 can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

To better illustrate the effect of vitamins over time, we can look at a study that was conducted on rats.

In this study, rats were given either a vitamin C supplement or a placebo. The rats were then tested on their memory and learning abilities.

The results showed that the rats who received the vitamin C supplement had improved memory and learning abilities compared to the rats who received the placebo.

However, these effects were only seen during the time that the rats were taking the supplement. Once they stopped taking the supplement, their memory and learning abilities returned to their baseline levels.

This suggests that vitamins can have short-term effects on memory function. However, these effects are usually not permanent. If you are looking for long-term improvements in your memory function, you may want to consider other methods, such as cognitive exercises.

Nevertheless, the studies were done on rats so further research is needed to see if these results can be replicated in humans.

How Do Vitamins Differ From Nootropics?

Nootropics are drugs or supplements that can improve cognitive function. Unlike vitamins, nootropics directly impact memory and other cognitive functions. Nootropics work by altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.

This can lead to improved communication between different areas of the brain. Nootropics can also help to protect the brain from damage and improve blood flow to the brain.

There are many different types of nootropics, but some examples include:

caffeine
omega-three fatty acids
huperzine A
modafinil

While nootropics can be effective, they also come with some risks. For example, some nootropics can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and irritability.

Nootropics can also interact with other drugs or supplements. Therefore, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any nootropics.

The Ultimate Vitamins/Supplements for Memory & Nervous System Enhancement

There are many different vitamins and minerals that have been linked to memory function.

However, not all of these nutrients have been studied extensively. Additionally, the research that has been conducted is often conflicting.

This makes it difficult to make specific recommendations about which vitamins or minerals are best for memory improvement. However, there are a few nutrients that have shown promise in this area.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the nervous system. It can be found in foods such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Vitamin B12 deficiency can have effects like cognitive decline and memory problems.

Research has found that older adults with vitamin B12 deficiency were more likely to experience cognitive decline. The participants who took vitamin B12 supplements experienced less cognitive decline than those who did not take supplements.

Vitamin B12 is not produced in the body. It can only be obtained through diet or supplements.

Mechanism of Action for B12

Vitamin B12 is involved in the metabolism of every cell in the body. It plays a role in DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation. Vitamin B12 is also required for the proper function of the nervous system.

Vitamin B12 works by helping to produce myelin. Myelin is a type of insulation that surrounds nerve cells. In addition, vitamin B12 helps to produce neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry messages between nerve cells.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a number of neurological problems. These include memory problems, cognitive decline, depression, and dementia.

Dosage for B12

The RDA for vitamin B12 is measured in micrograms (mcg). Most people can get enough vitamin B12 from diet alone. However, some people may need to take supplements. This is especially true for older adults and vegans.

Vitamin B12 supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and injections. The best way to take vitamin B12 is through diet or sublingual supplements.

Sublingual supplements are designed to be absorbed under the tongue. This allows them to bypass the digestive system and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

Vitamin B12 is generally considered safe. However, taking large doses of vitamin B12 can cause side effects, such as dizziness, headache, and nausea.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for the proper development of the nervous system.

It can be found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fortified foods. Folic acid deficiency can have an effect on cognitive impairment and memory problems.

The research found that older adults with folic acid deficiency were more likely to experience cognitive decline. The participants who took folic acid supplements experienced less cognitive decline than those who did not take supplements.

Mechanism of Action for Folic Acid

Folic acid works by helping to produce DNA and RNA. DNA is the genetic material that makes up our cells.

RNA is a type of molecule that helps to carry out the instructions in DNA. Folic acid is also involved in the production of neurotransmitters.

Also, folic acid helps to form red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues.

Dosage for Folic Acid

Most people can get enough folic acid from diet alone. However, some people may need to take supplements. This is especially true for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Folic acid supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and injections. The best way to take folic acid is through diet or fortified foods. Fortified foods are foods that have been subject to treatment with vitamins and minerals.

Folic acid is generally considered safe. However, taking large doses of folic acid can cause side effects, such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and headache.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is quite important in sustaining bone health and other major health processes.

It can be found in fortified milk, fatty fish, and eggs. Vitamin D deficiency has an effect on cognitive decline and memory problems.

The research found that older adults with vitamin D deficiency were more likely to experience cognitive decline. The participants who took vitamin D supplements experienced less cognitive decline than those who did not take supplements.

Mechanism of Action for Vitamin D

Vitamin D works by helping the body absorb calcium. Calcium is a mineral that is important for bone health. Vitamin D also helps to regulate the immune system and cell growth.

Furthermore, vitamin D is involved in the production of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that help to transmit signals between nerve cells.

This means that vitamin D is important for both physical and mental health.

Dosage for Vitamin D

The RDA for vitamin D is measured in international units (IU). Most people can get enough vitamin D from diet and sunlight alone. However, some people may need to take supplements. This is especially true for older adults and people with dark skin.

Vitamin D supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and injections. The best way to take vitamin D is through diet or fortified foods. Fortified foods are foods that have been subject to treatment with vitamins and minerals.

Vitamin D is generally considered safe. However, taking large doses of vitamin D can cause side effects, such as kidney stones and headaches.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an herbal supplement used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha can improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

Recent scientific studies have highlighted the adaptogenic herb’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its suitability for promoting brain health, memory, and cognitive function.

Mechanism of Action for Ashwagandha

The exact mechanism of action for ashwagandha is unknown. However, it works by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Ashwagandha is also thought to boost levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

In addition, ashwagandha improves blood circulation and increase the number of neurons in the brain. This occurs by increasing the production of nerve growth factor (NGF).

Ashwagandha also has a hormone component that helps with memory and cognitive function.

Dosage for Ashwagandha

The recommended dosage for ashwagandha is 300-500 mg per day. Ashwagandha supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and powder.

Besides that, the safety of ashwagandha is not well-known. Therefore, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking this supplement. Ashwagandha can have interactions with certain medications, such as thyroid medication and blood-sugar-lowering drugs.

PQQ

PQQ is a nutrient that is found in foods such as meat, vegetables, and soy. PQQ has shown to improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

PQQ is a potent antioxidant nutrient that promotes new mitochondria growth in your cells and boosts overall cell efficiency.

In addition to increasing energy levels, recent scientific research has shown that optimal pyrroloquinoline quinone supplementation can help improve cognition, memory, and sleep quality.

Mechanism of Action for PQQ

PQQ works by stimulating the growth of new mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria are organelles that produce energy for the cell. PQQ also protects mitochondria from damage and increases the efficiency of mitochondrial function.

PQQ is also a potent antioxidant nutrient. This means that it helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can damage cells and lead to inflammation.

Dosage for PQQ

The recommended dosage of PQQ is 20-40 mg per day. PQQ supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules and powder.

PQQ is generally considered safe. However, there is not enough research to know if there are any side effects or risks associated with taking PQQ supplements. PQQ mostly comes in a powder form which can be mixed with water or juice.

Huperzine A

Huperzine A is an herbal supplement that is derived from the Chinese club moss plant. Huperzine A can improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, which is an important neurotransmitter involved in learning and muscle contraction.

According to recent studies, some of the reported benefits of Huperzine-A include improvements to cognitive function and memory, as well as natural stress relief.

Mechanism of Action for Huperzine-A

Huperzine-A works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is involved in many cognitive processes, including learning and memory.

To be more specific, Huperzine-A prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine by binding to the active site of acetylcholinesterase. This results in an increase in the levels of acetylcholine in the brain.

Huperzine-A also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This means that it can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation.

Dosage for Huperzine-A

The recommended dosage of huperzine-A is 50-200 mcg per day. Huperzine-A supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and powder.

Huperzine-A is generally considered safe. However, there is not enough research to know if there are any side effects or risks associated with taking huperzine-A supplements. Huperzine-A can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, and blurred vision.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is an herbal supplement that has been in use for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Bacopa monnieri has shown to improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

More recent developments indicate that it may also help manage stress and reduce anxiety. During animal testing, it showed potential for improving cognition and reducing oxidative stress. It may even protect the brain from Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Mechanism of Action for Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a favorite by some because it is an "adaptogen". This means that it helps the body to adapt to stress. It does this by reducing the levels of cortisol, which is a hormone involved in the stress response.

Bacopa monnieri also increases levels of serotonin and dopamine. These are neurotransmitters that are associated with mood and emotion.

The memory effect it has shown is likely due to the fact that it increases levels of acetylcholine. As we know, this neurotransmitter is associated with learning and memory.

Dosage for Bacopa Monnieri

The recommended dosage of bacopa monnieri is 300-600 mg per day. Bacopa monnieri supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules and powder.

Bacopa monnieri is generally considered safe. You should only purchase it from companies that test for heavy metals and other contaminants. Some side effects associated with taking bacopa monnieri include nausea, diarrhea, and bloating.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is an herbal supplement that has been subject to use for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Rhodiola rosea can improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

Rhodiola Rosea is a flowering plant that is widely used for stress reduction in Scandinavia, Russia, and China.

Some other reported benefits of this plant include combating fatigue, enhancing endurance, boosting the immune system, and improving the brain’s ability to focus.

Mechanism of Action for Rhodiola Rosea

The mechanism of action for Rhodiola rosea is not fully understood, but it works in several ways. Rhodiola rosea seems to increase levels of important chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine.

It also increases levels of antioxidants and helps to protect cells from damage. All of these effects may contribute to improved mental function.

Besides that, memory improves because estrogen levels in the hippocampus increase. This is an important area of the brain for memory and learning.

Dosage for Rhodiola Rosea

The recommended dosage of rhodiola rosea is 200-600 mg per day. Rhodiola rosea supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules and powder.

In addition, it is important to purchase rhodiola rosea supplements that have been subject to standardization to contain at least three percent rosavins and one percent salidrosides. Other standardizations also work. They just have different effects.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid in green tea. L-theanine has shown to improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

L-theanine is quickly gaining steam as a brain health supplement. Studies have highlighted L-theanine’s ability to help relieve stress, promote alertness and support improved overall cognitive function and mental health.

Mechanism of Action for L-Theanine

L-theanine works by crossing the blood-brain barrier and directly affecting the brain. Once in the brain, L-theanine increases levels of important neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

These neurotransmitters are associated with mood, emotion, and cognition. L-theanine also increases levels of antioxidants and helps to protect cells from damage. All of these effects may contribute to improved mental function.

In terms of memory, L-theanine can increase levels of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA). This is a molecule that is associated with learning and memory.

Dosage for L-Theanine

The recommended dosage of L-theanine is 200-400 mg per day. L-theanine supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules and powder.

L-theanine is generally considered safe. You should only purchase it from companies that test for heavy metals and other contaminants. Some side effects associated with taking L-theanine include headaches, upset stomach, and dizziness.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid in seafood, such as salmon and shrimp. Astaxanthin can improve memory and cognitive function in animal studies.

Astaxanthin occurs naturally in some types of microalgae, and can also be obtained from fish and shellfish. Supplementation provides a more efficient way to unlock the immense benefits of this nutrient.

Mechanism of Action for Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin can be found in many different parts of the body, including the brain. In terms of memory and cognitive function, astaxanthin improves blood flow to the brain and protects cells from damage.

The mechanism of action for astaxanthin is not fully understood but works in several ways. Astaxanthin seems to increase levels of important chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine. All of these effects may contribute to improved mental function.

Dosage for Astaxanthin

The recommended dosage of astaxanthin is 12-24 mg per day. Astaxanthin supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules and powder.

Astaxanthin is generally considered safe. Some side effects associated with taking astaxanthin include headaches, upset stomach, and dizziness.

Should I Consult With a Doctor Before Trying Memory Enhancing Supplements?

Yes, you should always consult with a doctor before trying any new supplements. This is especially important if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. Some supplements can interact with medications and cause serious side effects.

Furthermore, not all supplements have been subject to testing for safety. Some may contain contaminants that can be harmful to your health. It is always best to speak with a doctor before taking any new supplement.

Should I Take Each Vitamin Separately or Buy a Supplement With Many?

In all honesty, it depends on the situation. If you have a specific vitamin deficiency, then it may be best to take that particular vitamin in supplement form.

For example, if you are deficient in vitamin D, then taking a vitamin D supplement may be the best way to improve your memory.

On the other hand, if you want to take a more comprehensive approach to memory enhancement, then you may want to consider a supplement that contains many of the vitamins on this list.

Cognitive Exercises & Lifestyle Changes That Can Help With Memory

In addition to taking memory supplements, there are a number of cognitive exercises that can help to improve your memory. It's best to utilize these exercises in combination with your supplement regimen.

Dual-n-Back

One cognitive exercise that can be effective is called the dual n-back task. This task involves remembering information. Studies have shown that this exercise can improve working memory and fluid intelligence.

Dual-n-back works by training your brain to remember more information at once. This exercise can be done with the help of online programs or apps.

Chunking

Chunking is a memory technique that involves grouping items together. For example, if you are trying to remember a list of numbers, you can group them into chunks of three or four. This will make the numbers easier to remember.

Also, try to chunk items together that are related. For example, if you are trying to remember a list of groceries, you can group items together by category (e.g. dairy, meat, produce, etc.).

Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonic devices are memory aids that can help you to remember information more easily. One example of a mnemonic device is the acronym.

Acronyms are words made up of the first letter of each word in a phrase. For example, the acronym "HOMES" can be used to remember the five Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior.

Optimizing Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for memory function. When you sleep, your brain consolidates memories and gets rid of unnecessary information. This process is essential for maintaining a sharp memory.

There are a number of things you can do to optimize your sleep and improve your memory. First, try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. This will help to regulate your body's sleep cycle.

Second, create a relaxing bedtime routine that will prepare your mind for sleep. Finally, avoid watching television or using electronic devices in bed. These activities can stimulate your brain and make it more difficult to fall asleep.

Improving Diet

What you eat can also have a significant impact on your memory. Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential for maintaining a sharp mind.

Furthermore, omega-three fatty acids can improve memory function. You can get omega-three fatty acids from fish, such as salmon and tuna, or from supplements.

No Smoking

Smoking is bad for your health in many ways, including its effects on memory. Studies have shown that smoking can damage the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for memory function. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your memory.

Also, smoking interferes with the absorption of some vitamins, such as vitamin C. This means that smokers may benefit from taking memory supplements more than non-smokers.

Limit Drinking

Drinking too much alcohol can also damage the hippocampus and lead to memory problems. If you drink alcohol, it's important to do so in moderation. For healthy adults, moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

In fact, drinking moderate amounts of alcohol can improve memory function.

This is likely due to the fact that alcohol can increase blood flow to the brain. However, it's important to remember that too much alcohol can have negative effects on your health.

This doesn't mean you should start drinking if you don't already. But if you do drink, doing so in moderation may help to improve your memory on occasion.

Aerobic/Cardio Training

Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, is another effective method for improving memory. This type of exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which can help to improve cognitive function. Furthermore, aerobic exercise can increase the size of the hippocampus.

There are a number of different ways to incorporate aerobic exercise into your routine. For example, you could go for a brisk walk, run, or swim. It is proven that the more you exercise, the better capable your brain will be, and in return, your memory.

Journal/Write More

Writing can also help to improve your memory. This is because writing helps you to organize your thoughts and remember information more effectively. Furthermore, writing can also be therapeutic. It can help you to process difficult emotions and experiences, which can in turn improve your mental health.

There are a number of ways you can incorporate writing into your life. For example, you could start a journal or blog.

You could also write down things that you want to remember, such as grocery lists or upcoming events. Writing can be a helpful tool for improving your memory function.

Attain a Cognitive Edge

At SageNutrients, we developed the United States, our latest lab-backed scientifically researched supplement, Cognitive Edge. This supplement is designed to help support optimal brain function with a powerful blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbs.

Our supplement has the best minerals, vitamins, and supplements necessary for brain enhancement. Here's what's included:

Ashwagandha to enhance memory and focus
Bacopa Monnieri for stress relief
PQQ to improve cognition
Astaxanthin to protect against aging
Rhodiola Rosea to combat fatigue and enhance focus
L-theanine to inhibit anxiety
Huperzine-A for neuroprotection

When taking our supplement, you can expect:

Memory support
Heightened Focus
Knowledge Retention
Stress Relief
Advanced Neuroprotection

To learn more about how Cognitive Edge can help you attain a cognitive edge, click here.

Your Memory Improvement Journey Starts Here

There you have it! These are the top ten vitamins for memory improvement. So what are you waiting for? Start supplementing today and see the difference for yourself!

Remember, always consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. And don't forget to stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep - all of which are important for a healthy brain.

If you're interested in improving brain health soon, get in touch with us and we will accommodate your needs.

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