Thanks to the internet, we live in an era where information is readily available.
Rather than spending time trying to recall a date or historical fact, we can simply pull out our cell phones and locate the answer we need in a matter of milliseconds.
As convenient as this is––especially in our busy and sometimes hectic lifestyles–-the internet can’t solve everything. Maybe you’ve lost your car keys, or you can’t find your eyeglasses. And you know your niece’s birthday is sometime next month, but the date has escaped you––again––this year.
We all forget basic and sometimes obvious things every now and then (those glasses were strung around your neck the whole time, by the way). That’s normal and a part of being human. However, ongoing forgetfulness, or trouble with retention and recall that worsens over time, could necessitate a closer look.
Why is memory important?
Everything that has happened before this very second, is already in the past.
We can only remember so many details of what has transpired. The truth is, most of us are busy, overstimulated people who deal with stress daily. Even in the best, tranquil circumstances, we can’t recall every detail of a past event—not without the help of a time machine, anyway!
What is memory?
According to research, “Memory is the process of taking in information from the world around us, processing it, storing it and later recalling that information, sometimes many years later.”
Generally speaking, there are four different types of memory:
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Short-term memory: Think of this as a small filing cabinet in your brain, perhaps the size of doll-house furniture. We can only hold a small amount of information here for about 30 seconds, say a phone number, address, or a small list of vocabulary words.
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Long-term memory: This is where we file a vast range of experiences and memories (for more than 30 seconds). This could include anything from learning a song on the piano, to recalling your first day of school.
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Sensory memory: This often comes from our senses in a fleeting moment, sometimes lasting one or two seconds. Some examples include: Hearing a bird’s chirp or spotting a squirrel leaping from a tree.
- Working memory: We use our working memory to help us remember and complete a more complex task like coding on a computer, drafting or revising a novel, or solving a physics problem.
How do we create memories?
Stage 1 (Encoding) → Stage 2 (Brain storage) → Stage 3 (Recall)
To break this down, during Stage 1, information makes its way into our brain. In Stage 2, our brains store it for a short amount of time or permanently. Then, in Stage 3, we recall ––or retrieve––the memory again for when we need it.
What causes memory loss?
As we get older, it’s natural to experience a bit of memory trouble.
We may, from time to time, forget if we’ve taken our morning vitamins or what items we needed from the food shop. But stress, diet, mental illness (such as bipolar disorder), or degenerative brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and Dementia can also cause memory loss.
What can I do to slow down memory loss?
Here are some daily lifestyle changes that could help improve your memory:
- Keep a planner or agenda for your daily tasks and important dates to remember.
- Engage in mental exercises: Puzzles, Sudoku, or reading can be great ways to exercise your brain.
- Sleep hygiene, a healthy diet, and physical activity are important for maintaining our memory and thinking process.
- Consider talking with your physician about taking a natural nootropic for extra support.
Nootropics and memory
What are nootropics, and can they improve memory?
Nootropics, or “smart pills”, are cognitive enhancers that come in three forms: natural nootropics, synthetic, and prescription-grade. They can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, caffeine, and prescription stimulants, such as Ritalin.
Before you start thinking that nootropics are a miracle brain pill, it’s important to know they are diverse in what they can help us with. Recent studies indicate they can help improve our cognitive functioning, particularly our mood, ability to handle stress, our memory, and our thinking processes.
Are nootropics for memory safe?
Many nootropics available over-the-counter, without a prescription are “dietary food supplements.” Research shows that, in general, natural nootropics are safe.
Whilst there is always a risk when taking any supplement or medication, it’s important to first consult your doctor before choosing a nootropic so that you can discuss why you want to take it, any potential side effects, and any possible adverse interactions with your current medications.
Top three nootropics for memory in 2021
Panax ginseng
Also called “Asian ginseng,” the roots of the Panax ginseng plant are an ancient staple in Chinese medicine. This nootropic comes from the mountainous regions of East Asia yet grows in Korea and Siberia.
Panax ginseng has been shown to improve mental clarity, memory, and mood. One study indicates it may improve cognitive impairment and brain functioning in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea, also called “golden root” or “arctic root”, comes from the cold, mountainous regions of Asia, North America, and Europe. It is a powerful adaptogen that can help you handle stress.
In addition to its ability to help reduce stress levels and fatigue, it may also improve focus and concentration. One study suggests that it can “improve learning and memory function.”
Turmeric
A common spice found in the Curcuma longa root, turmeric contains a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, curcumin, that can help fight inflammation and depression, among other issues.
The curcumin in turmeric could be effective in improving memory loss in older adults. One study reports that it even “has a potential role in the prevention and treatment” of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
It is important to note, however, that normal curcumin sold on the market is insoluble in water, whereas alternatives like Hydrocurc are dispersed in water, which increases its bioavailability in the body.
Looking for a supplement that can help make memory loss a thing of the past?
They say “an elephant never forgets,” but human beings do––and that’s normal.
When we’re stressed and overworked, we can experience memory loss. Add to that normal ageing, mental illness, or a family history of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, and we may find ourselves needing extra support.
Earths Secret’s Thrive Complex is a non-GMO and vegan-friendly formula, combining five all-natural ingredients that can support your memory functions: Hydrocurc Turmeric, Spirulina, Reishi, Elderberry, and Ginger.
Taking a natural nootropic can be a great way to boost your cognitive function and leave you free to enjoy creating new memories.
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