You may have seen several supplements and vitamins that are claimed to improve memory and brain function. But, are these claims true? Let’s see what the experts think about it!

Why supplements can help
According to Consumer.Labs, there are some supplements that are proven to improve memory and cognition in certain people. The supplements are fish oil, cocoa flavanols, curcumin, huperzine A, vinpocetine, and certain Vitamin B kinds. In addition, some research studies suggest that choline can improve memory in some older adults. 

While Ginko Biloba and Vitamin E are popularly known to improve memory, these supplements lack evidence to point out to this. 

In some cases, iron supplements can help improve memory and brain function. Iron supplements can be used to help improve the memory and cognitive abilities of females with iron deficiency. However, according to Harvard Health Publishing, there is a good evidence that suggests Vitamin E can help treat dementia.

Why supplements don’t work 
What most people don’t know is its safety risks. Dr. Marshall, a professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, explains why.

According to Dr. Marshall, some memory supplements are offered in high doses that pose risk than give benefits. For example, most Vitamin E supplements are sold in doses of 400 international units (IU) and higher. Research studies have shown that consumption of high doses of Vitamin E can increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Consumption of high doses of Ginko Biloba and fish oil supplements also pose several risks. For one thing, these supplements can inhibit blood clotting. What’s more, Ginko Biloba can thin the blood and cause a brain hemorrhage. Consumption of supplements that are a mix of these vitamins can lead to excessive bleeding and be bruising.

The most experts comment that while supplements can work theoretically, successful clinical trials on these supplements suggest that they don’t. For example, Vitamin B12 is responsible for memory and other cognitive functions. While consumption of this vitamin can help people with Vitamin B12 deficiency, it does not work for people with healthy levels of this vitamin.

Another example is ginseng supplements. Many companies advertise that ginseng can improve memory because it is a “natural” remedy to memory loss and deterioration. However, as mentioned before, there is no good evidence that points out to this belief. In addition, ginseng supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In conclusion 
So, if you want to improve their memory, adopt a Mediterranean diet and exercise plan instead of supplements. While companies advertise that supplements do work, medical experts say otherwise. In comparison to supplements, several research studies have shown that a Mediterranean diet and exercise can boost memory and cognitive functions.

However, if you are planning to take supplements, always remember “Caveat emptor” which means “let the buyer beware.” Supplements are often advertised as a “miracle cure” for memory loss not because they work, but because a legal loophole allows this. In addition, please take note that supplements do not have to pass a rigorous and stringent safety test under the FDA.

Sources:
https://www.rd.com/health/wellness/vitamins-for-memory/
https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-with-brain-function/supplements_for_memory/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/mind-and-memory-supplement-scorecard

Contributed by:
Allison Julianne Macasaet, a freelance writer on the side, a student of international relations on the other. Interests include fantasy books, international relations, and lifestyle.