By Christine Cheng, R.Ph. and Fred Cheng, R.Ph.
Do you feel you are getting more forgetful with each passing day? Studying for an exam? Hoping to improve your ability to focus or be sharp? Feeling the brain strain from everyday life? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then say “yes” to nootropics. “Nootropics” are substances that can enhance cognition and memory and facilitate learning via differing mechanisms. Some nootropics have been around for a long time (e.g., DHA, ginkgo biloba), but there are a few newer substances emerging on the market that show promise for promoting the health and function of the brain. NEURO-FORCE ™ is a one-a-day supplement that combines the benefits of multiple nootropics. Its ingredients are summarized below.
DHA or docosahexanoic acid​is an essential fatty acid that must be derived from the diet, whether it be from eating oily fish or from a supplement. This is an important nutrient as up to 30% of the cerebral cortrex is made up of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as DHA. Inadequate DHA intake may impede neurotransmission and may contribute to memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. However, adequate levels of DHA may restore cognitive abilities, improve the rate of learning, reduce mental decline and prevent brain degeneration.
GINKGO BILOBA extract is well known for its ability to improve circulation in the body, including to the brain. Evidence suggests that ginkgo can improve memory and speed of cognitive processing. Furthermore, it has been shown to improve cognitive function and social functioning in patients with different types of dementia.
VINPOCETINE, an alkaloid derived from the lesser periwinkle plant has neuroprotective actions. It improves blood flow to the brain and the use of oxygen by the brain, and also reduces inflammation, which may protect the brain against degenerative conditions.
PYRROLOQUINOLINE QUINONE (PQQ) is a vitamin-like compound that has neuroprotective properties. It functions as a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor. Supplementation has been linked with improved memory and cognitive function, particularly by reversing the damage caused by chronic oxidative stress.
BACOPA MONNIERI Extract is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for thousands of years to help with failing memory. Recent research has shown the active components of this herb have neuroprotective effects via anti-oxidant activity. It may promote clearance of beta-amyloid proteins which are implicated in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease.
Maintaining acetylcholine levels in the brain is important forcognition as this neurotransmitter is crucial to nerve cell signaling and communication. L-ALPHA GLYCERYLPHOSPHORYLCHOLINE (Alpha GPC) is a substance that helps release choline, a molecule that is then used to make acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine (a component of brain cell membranes). Phosphatidylcholine is a unique phospholipid that may counteract cognitive impairment related to dementia, derived from brain injuries and stroke.
In a class of its own is LION’S MANE, a fmedicinal mushroom that has been shown to increase nerve growth factor synthesis, which can enhance nerve growth. This may inhibit brain dysfunction and age-related loss of cognitive function.
Regardless of which nootropic supplement you try, consult with a healthcare practitioner prior to using it to ensure its safe use.
(Christine and Fred Cheng are a passionate, charismatic sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique, family-owned and operated Pharmasave in Cloverdale, B.C. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. Everything mentioned in their article is available InStore. They would love to hear from you or meet you at one of their seminars. Please call if you would like to schedule a seminar at your community facility. 604-576-2888; www.cloverdalepharmasave.com. Of course, before you begin any activity program or try any OTC supplementation, check with your physician and pharmacist.)
