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Rules of Memory 'Beautifully' Rewritten

  • April 09, 2017

Groundbreaking research has upended what we thought we knew about how our brain forms short- and long-term memories. According to BBC.com, a new study shows that the brain actually makes two separate memories of events. The findings are startling but more research is needed to determine how or if this may be relevant in addressing brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

As the research continues, you can boost your own brain health naturally with a few easy strategies. Contrary to popular belief, your brain doesn't have to slow down or become unreliable with age, and there are steps within your control that can influence your memory, cognition and more. Your lifestyle and what you consume, from vitamin D to vegetables, may make the difference between staying mentally sharp in old age or starting to lose your edge.

Many people worry about getting dementia or Alzheimer’s as they age, but it’s now known that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk for these diseases, so getting plenty of sun or taking a supplement may be in order if you’re deficient.

Also, the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, found in dark leafy greens, may promote cognitive function in old age by enhancing neural efficiency. Even drinking milk containing probiotics can improve cognitive function — emphasizing the importance of gut health to the prevention and treatment of neurological disorders.

Probiotics also boost metabolic changes, including lowered triglycerides, very low-density lipoprotein and C-reactive protein (a measure of inflammation) as well as reduced markers for insulin resistance.

Other strategies that can help improve your memory include other mnemonic devices, learning a new language, meditation, certain music and smells, laughter, exercise and various brain-training programs, games and puzzles.