The brain depends upon specific nutrients to function at peak capacity and some are difficult to obtain from our standard diets. However, these nutrients can be supplemented through whole-food based sources. These are some specific nutritional supplements for healthy brain function.
Vitamin D3
This is extremely critical for brain development and maturity throughout life. Lowered vitamin D3 levels are associated with autism, dyslexia and ADHD in children, and neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s in adults.
The optimal source of vitamin D3 is sunlight. Most of our ancestors were able to derive optimal vitamin D3 levels through regular sun exposure. In the Northern climates, it would be provided through sunlight in the summertime and a winter diet of fatty fish, organ meat and raw milk.
Researchers have found that optimal vitamin D3 levels are between 70-100ng/ml. Over 95 percent of the world population is well under these levels. Taking 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily is a great way to ensure your levels are optimized and your brain development is at its peak.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements and astaxanthin reduce inflammation. Omega-3s provide better cell membrane receptor activity. Astaxanthin has the unique ability to cross the blood- brain and the blood-retinal barriers, while most carotenoids do not. This helps protect the brain and eyes from inflammatory damage and reduces the risk for blindness, cataracts, macular degeneration, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders.
Astaxanthin works particularly well against peroxyl radicals that damage cell membranes. This is important because all essential fats, in particular, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, are very fragile and susceptible to free radical damage.
Astaxanthin is the most powerful antioxidant to inhibit the oxidation of these essential fats. Take one to two grams of EPA/DHA daily with four to eight milligrams of astaxanthin.
Read more: Natural News
