Brain Health

In our efforts to develop that perfect body, certain other aspects of our lives get left behind. One major part of the body that should always be taken care of is the brain. Much like the muscles of the body, the brain needs to be taken care of and exercised as well. With horrible diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, taking care of your brain should be a top priority.

There are a few supplements that are excellent allies for protecting your brain. Essential fatty acids are necessary for proper brain health and function. DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid, is the main component of brain synapses (where signals take place). It has been shown that those individuals who lack in Omega-3s have lower mental performance and this lack is also linked to dementia.

Antioxidants help to combat the effects of free radicals on the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage the cells of the body on a microscopic level, including the brain, until their chain reaction is stopped. Antioxidants put a halt to this damaging cycle, allowing the body to function at optimal levels.

Alpha lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that is both water and fat soluble, meaning it can access all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. ALA can access the brain much easier than other antioxidants, combating the free radicals that are present there.

Acetyl L-carnitine is a variation of the amino acid l-carnitine which aids in fat metabolism. The acetyl version of this amino acid aids in the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine which is necessary for proper mental function. Acetyl L-carnitine has been shown in studies to delay the progression of Alzheimer’s and also improves the performance of those individuals with the disease.

Muscles may come and go, but you will have your brain the rest of your life. It only makes sense to care for it like you would any other part of your body. Turn off the TV and read a book. Later on in life, that tight butt or six-pack abs aren’t going to matter much, but holding a conversation and remembering people’s names will. Start caring for your brain now, before it’s too late.

Tim Mielke is a former competitive bodybuilder and published author, with 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. He has written dozens of articles ranging from the organic lifestyle, to hyped-up supplements to steroids, for various health and fitness sources. His book, The Book of Supplement Secrets: A Beginner’s Guide to Nutritional Supplements, has received excellent reviews. Tim brings his knowledge and expertise to RightFitnessandNutrition.com, and is currently developing his own supplement line and writing two more books, which he hopes to have published in 2014.