Healthy Supplements

Food nowadays is not what it used to be in our grandfather's days, nor do we have the freedom of choice that they enjoyed, speaking of what, where and when to get whatever they like to eat. Not only soil depletion and insane methods of farming affect the decline of nutrients in what we eat: We have no real choices regarding the quality of the produce we buy, the guys at the supermarket management decide that for us. And the decisions they make very rarely are with our wellbeing in their minds.

That's why we need to take supplements. Thank God, the attempts of the pharmaceutical giants to take over the control of the supplements supply in the US have been, until now, unsuccesful.

In Europe they haven't been so lucky; instead of getting the B12 complex or any supplement they need over the counter in any supermarket or drugstore, now people must go to their physician and pay him in order to get a prescription for that vitamin or supplement... and no refills. Obviously, the vitamins and supplements that are prescribed, are commonly the brands that are marketed by the big pharmaceutics.

So if you live in the US or any country where you still have the freedom to get that necessary supplement over the counter, be watchful and thru your vote or your emails to your representative or senator, don't let those corporations get away with their oscure objective. Your health is at stake.

Brain Nutrients

Here are the info on some nutrients that may help keep your brain and body at the top of the game.

Glutathione:Glutathione is a small peptide which consists of three amino acids linked together, and it is an important substance found in the body that decreases with age. It enhances brain activity by increasing the flow of blood and oxygen to the cells. Additionally, it has been shown to protect cells from free radicals and toxins and help protect the liver, since it also plays an important role in the oxidation of tissue.

Ginseng: Ginseng has been used in Chines culture for centuries as an energy and virility enhancer; taken in the appropiate dosage it also sharpens the mind, reduces stress, relieves impotence, extends life, enhances the inmune system, is an aid to control blood pressure, regulates blood sugar levels and strengthens the cardiovascular system. The original Chinese plant (Aralia Schinseng) has become so rare that the American plant (Aralia quinquefolia) has largely taken its place, since it has quite similar effects and its root is now an article of export from America to China.

Dimethylglycine (DMG): Formerly called vitamin B15 or pangamic acid, is a derivative of the amino acid glycine. It is produced in the mitochondria of cells from choline and betaine and is constantly being broken down as it is used. It is also found in low levels in many foods. DMG increases the transport of oxygen from the blood to the brain. It also helps to improve oxygen consumption and reduces the buildup of lactic acid wich causes fatigue. It is also used to enhance blood sugar metabolism, as well to improve liver function and to strengthen the cardiovascular system. Athletes have long used DMG to improve overall performance and endurance, enhance oxygen utilization and improve recovery after strenous exercise. Word of Advise:DMG is not advised for pregnant women or nursing mothers and should only be used in children under medical supervision.

Ginkgo Biloba: The Ginkgo tree (Ginkgo Biloba) has been used in China for many thousand years as medicinal preparations. Ginkgo leaves extract in both solid and liquid form has been produced both in China and elsewhere. Pharmacological properties include vasodilation and improved blood flow and it has been reported that helps figthing clinical depression. It has been prescribed and widely used to aid in improving brain functions (memory) and mental alertness, and for the treatment of ailments such as vertigo, allergies, early stage Alzheimer's disease, asthma, impotence, macular degeneration, migraines and overall aging, that in some people are reduced by Ginko Biloba. Users of the supplement often identify mood enhancement as a quite positive side effect.

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE):DMAE: It is a naturally occurring substance in the brain and in several foods. Sardines and other cold water fish are a natural source. DMAE is a choline precursor that easily moves across the brain-blood barrier and it is a precursor to acetylocholine, increasing its productions. Users of DMAE report that the effects are much more potent when it is taken along with Phosphatidly Choline. It has been known to act as a mild antidepressant and have positive effects on mental energy, attention and concentration. **NOTE: Contraindicated in patients with seizure conditions.

Coenzyme Q-10: Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like nutrient that is essential. COQ10 is in virtually every cell in the human body. The mitochondria, the area of the cell where energy is produced, contains the most. Science now believes that this nutrient is essential for generating 95% of the total energy required by the human body, and catalyzes crucial metabolism. Coenzyme Q10 has been proven to act as an essential catalyst of energy production metabolism in cells. It is a powerful anti-oxidant that can readily absorb (and release) electrons from chemically active (and thus potentially harmful) free radicals. Additionally, it has been shown to enhance cognitive activity. COQ-10 stimulates energy release in the cells and has a large number of beneficial effects, including: stimulating the inmune system, boosting energy, enhancing athletic performance, lowering blood pressure and positive effects on heart disease. Altough research is still continuing on COQ-10, many scientists believe COQ-10 helps to lengthen life span.

Melatonin: Melatonin is a natural substance secreted by the pineal gland. Melatonin is produced to help our bodies regulate our sleep-wake cycles. However, the amount of it produced by our body seems to lessen as we get older. Supplements help induce sleep and ease jet lag. Other benefits of Melatonin include a strenghtening of the inmune system, and a reduction of free radicals in the body.

GABA (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid): GABA, is an amino acid that is found in the central nervous system; acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter and it is a calming and anti-epileptic agent in the brain that is naturally manufactured in the body, which can be found in foods high in protein. Ingestion of additional synthetic GABA may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, high blood pressure, carbohydrate cravings, and symptoms associated with depression.

Glycine: Glycine, the simplest amino acid found in proteins and the principal amino acid in sugar cane, is a natural substance found in protein food and is synthesized in your nervous system. Glycine helps build up glycogen levels, helps make DNA and skin proteins. Glycine stimulates growth hormone release in higher dose, and participates in the major energy producing biochemical reaction in your body. It also has a calming sedative effect, which is helpful in relaxation.

Taurine: Taurine is a non-essential amino acid that is found naturally in the body's white blood cells, skeletal muscles, central nervous system as well as the heart muscles. It is believed to be helpful with anxiety, hyperactivity, poor brain function and epilepsy as well as hydrating the brain. Recent research performed by British researchers has shown that Taurine combined with caffeine produces a cognitive enhancement effect. Significant improvements have been shown in healthy volunteers for reaction time, concentration and memory.

Choline: Choline is critical for normal membrane structure and function. The human body uses Choline to manufacture acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in the formation and recall of memories. Choline also assists in controlling weight, cholesterol levels and contributes to the prevention of gallstones. It is also most useful in the maintenance of the nervous system, assisting memory and learning, and may help to fight infections, including hepatitis and AIDS.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine): Thiamine is a water-soluble vitamin the body needs to make enzymes to break down carbohydrates. It is found in foods such as beans, green vegetables, egg yolk, liver, corn, and brown rice. It is essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system. Thiamine may enhance circulation, helps with blood formation and the metabolism of carbohydrates. It is also required for the health of the nervous system and is used in the biosynthesis of a number of cell constituents, including the neurotransmitter acetycholine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is used in the manufacture of hydrochloric acid, and therefore, plays a part in the process of digestion.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): Riboflavin is an essential vitamin and is important for energy metabolism, normal eyesight and healthy skin. Foods high in Rivoflavin are milk, yogurt, cheeses, meat, leafy green vegetables and whole enriched grains.

Vitamin B3 (niacin): Niacin is required for cell respiration, helps in the release of energy and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, proper circulation and healthy skin, and the proper functioning of the nervous system. It is well known as a memory enhancer. Users of Niacin report more mental alertness when this vitamin is in sufficient supply.

Pantothenic acid (B5): Pantothetic acid is a vitamin B complex that is involved in energy metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids, and the synthesis of lipids, neurotransmitters, steroid hormones, porphyrins and hemoglobin. It has been used to treat cognitive impairments in pathological states such as Alzheimer's disease.

Vitamin B6(pyridoxine): Pyridoxine affects both physical and mental health. It is required by the nervous system and is needed for normal brains function and for the synthesis of the nucleic acids RNA and DNA, which contain the genetic instructions for the reproduction of all cells and for normal cellular growth.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid): Folic Acid or folate is needed to synthesize DNA. DNA allows cells to replicate normally.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin): Cyanocobalamin is necessary for the formation and regeneration of red blood cells, preventing anemia. It has been linked to increase in appetite in children, increase in energy for people of all ages and aids in maintaining a healthy nervous system. Many elderly people suffering from neurological impaiment find that Cyanocobalamin supplementation greatly improves their cognitive function.

Glutamine: L-Glutamine or simply glutamine is one of the most prevalent amino acids in the body. Not to be confounded with glutamate. It is synthesized by the body, but in times of stress, needs may exceed the available supply. Glutamine may be formed by the biosynthesis of glutamate and ammonia, a process that rids the body of excess ammonia. Glutamine is a brain energizer. Like glucose it travels into brain cells easily and serves as a fuel source. It is also udes by white blood cells and is important for inmune function. **NOTE: Diabetics, however, need to exercise caution, since they have an abnormal glutamine metabolism.

Pyroglutamate: Pyroglutamate improves learning, improves memory and lowers anxiety. Pyroglutamaic acid is the source from wich several "smart drugs" have been developed. The effect of Pyroglutamate when taken as a supplement is similar (tough less powerful) on cognition. It is a naturally occuring chemical in dairy products, meat, fruit and vegetables. In the body it concentrates in cerebrospinal fluid and the brain. It is widely availabe either alone, or as Arginine Pyroglutamate.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C provides an abundant and varied number of health benefits. Vitamin C is best known as an inmunity booster and powerful antioxidant. Like all antioxidants, Vitamin C counters the effects of cell damaging molecules called free radicals. As an added benefit, it even helps the body recycle other antioxidants. Vitamin C is abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also available in synthetically manufactured forms. Vitamin C has been found to boost the inmune system and reduces cholesterol. It also is imperative in growing and maintaining tissue. Vitamin C contributes greatly to cognitive ability and is in its highest concentrations in the brain. Studies have shown a positive correlation between the levels of vitamin C in individuals and performance on IQ tests. Those with more C did better. Those with lower scores increased their scores when they were given more C.

Arginine Pyroglutamate: Arginine Pyroglutamate may help improve cognitive functions in older individuals, especially in people with brain dysfunction. Some studies have indicated that pyroglutamate may help improve cognition in aging alcoholics. **NOTE: Effects may seem to diminish with daily use.

Phosphatidyl Choline (PC): PC is found in lecithin.Studies on PC have shown that it aids in increasing metabolism of fats, regulating cholesterol, and is a source material for the manufacture of cell membranes.

N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine(ALC): Studies have shown that ALC improve memory and learning in young women and has had a positive effect on attention and alertness in Alzheimer's and other senility suffers. ALC slows the decrease in nerve growth factor that comes with aging and thereby helps keep the brain younger.

Phenylalanine: Phenylalanine is naturally produced by the brain and has been found to contribute to positive mood, increased energy, and memory formation. Unfortunately for some people, with age the brain becomes less capable of producing Phenylalanine in required amounts. This is part of the addiction cycle. Supplementing the diet Phenylalanine helps overcome such depletion. As a result it is recommended for everyone over age 45.

Eleuthero: Eleuthero helps the body to adapt to various kinds of stress such as heat, cold, exertion, sleep deprivation, infection or phsychological stress. Used alongside Eleutherosides (active components in Eleuthero), Eleuthero is extremely heplful in fighting fatigue. It also improves the use of oxygen in a working muscle to help maintain activity for longer periods of time, while shortening recovery.

Biotin: Biotin plays a vital role in the production of energy from the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It is also known as the vitamin that produces healthy hair and helps prevent graying. Biotin defiency has been linked to retarded physical and mental development, alopecia, keratoconjunctivitis, and defects in T-cell and B-cell inmunity.

We strongly suggest you to give a close look to our articles that include valuable tips to increase your brain activity in the most positive ways so you regain control of your mind.