As women age, memory loss is a nearly universal experience, and more significant for some than others. Misplacing papers and mail, searching for lost keys, forgetting names of persons, movies, and books. Although age-related memory loss affects both genders, research indicates that cognitive support is particularly critical for women. This is due to the loss of a critical protective hormone – estrogen.
In the brain, estrogen ensures that neurons (brain cells) stay healthy. It supports cell survival, regeneration, and efficient communication with other neurons. Estrogen helps the brain acquire and store information and to adapt to change.
Prior to menopause, estrogen is made in the ovaries, and crosses into the brain to perform these vital roles. The brain itself also produces estrogen. Menopause is marked by loss of estrogen production by both the ovaries and the brain. In Colorpuncture, we call this the “Neptunian Fog” and there are really nice Colorpuncture therapies that are supportive in moving through this.
Many of my clients feel alarmed at their forgetfulness and loss of mental clarity at this stage of life and beyond. Fortunately, with diet and lifestyle changes, you can be proactive in maintaining brain health and cognitive performance, regardless of age. Additionally, in our clinic we can combine Esogetics Holistic Medicine/Colorpuncture therapies like the Genital Converters therapy, or many others, that are very supportive during this transition.
Diet and lifestyle modifications
- Eat organic, whole foods, emphasizing a wide variety of vegetables, including root vegetables
- Reduce exposure to antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, artificial colors and flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup
- Eat a diet high in fiber, low in refined carbohydrates, and free of common allergens (soy, wheat, eggs, peanuts and dairy) to reduce stress on the digestive tract and the immune system
- Include lean meats from free-range, grass fed animals as sources of high-quality protein
- Maintain adequate fluid intake to facilitate the action of the fiber
- Avoid environmental toxins as much as possible
- Walk 10,000 steps daily and sit as little as possible
- Stimulate your brain by learning new things and by challenging yourself
Supplements
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil support learning and memory, neuronal communication and energy metabolism in the brain
- Bacopa monierii is an Ayurvedic herb that supports mental acuity, memory, relaxation and cognitive function under stress
- Rhodiola rosea is an herb with neuroprotective and calming properties. Studies show it also supports mental performance
- Ginkgo biloba helps with mild memory problems associated with aging
- Acetyl-L-carnitine supports energy production in the brain. It also supports production of a key neurotransmitter called acetylcholine
- Phosphatidylserine promotes healthy neurotransmitter levels and spatial memory
- Curcumin, resveratrol, and lemon balm help protect neurons from oxidative stress
- Breast Care Balm This formulation is less building and more soothing and comforting than our original Breast Balm (now Beauty Balm) and is well suited for women that may be experiencing fibrocystic breast changes and the associated pain, tenderness, and lumpiness.
- Beauty Balm According to Ayurvedic tradition, external use of ghee supports soft, supple skin by effectively helping to balance your skin’s moisture levels. Shatavari and ashwagandha are infused into this versatile formulation to tone, nourish, and rejuvenate the tissues. Beauty Balm can be your go-to balm for any body part that needs to be immersed in and protected by moisture. It is often used as a skin cream, eye cream, moisturizer for dry and aging skin, hand cream, lip balm, elbow and knee moisturizer, nail and cuticle cream, and as a deep moisturizer for the feet and heels.
- Women’s Natural Transition is formulated with the most potent Ayurvedic herbs for supporting a woman’s natural transition through menopause. As the body, mind, and spirit undergo this major life shift, Natural Transition supports the systems that need it most, not only during menopause, but also for the time leading up to it, and even afterwards.
- Women’s Support gently maintains the healthy production of female hormones, helping to regulate the menstrual cycle and ease the transition into menopause.
Although menopause is inevitable for all women, memory loss does not have to be. A comprehensive diet and lifestyle approach is the best way to help maintain brain health and maximize your cognitive performance at any age.
Mary Ayinde says:
Thank you!