Vitamins for MemoryQuick Facts on Memory Vitamins
On this page: Vitamins for Memory. Quick facts about the common memory vitamins and memory supplements. Can Gingko help improve memory.
In addition to memory games and other memory improvement techniques, have you ever wondered if there are vitamins for memory, that can have a positive impact on your long term and short term memory? The good news is - there are - but, these are not necessarily any special memory vitamins like Ginkgo, on whose benefits expert views are divided. However, B Vitamins can be considered closest to what you can call the memory vitamins, as they are known to protect the brain cells, and improve oxygen flow to the brain. Below is a quick look at some of the more common vitamins for memory that are available for our use, and how they may help us. 
Vitamin B12: If there is one vitamin that can probably be called the memory vitamin, it is Vitamin B12. B12 is known to reduce age-related memory loss, and forgetfulness that happens as we get older; and B12 deficiency in one of the more common causes of memory loss. B12 can be found in lean beef, fish, meat and diary products like milk, cheese and yogurt. Since the only known sources of B12 are animal protein and diary products, nutritionists recommend strict vegetarians, and especially the older people, to include a B12 supplement in their regular diet. Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is probably a good "memory companion" to B12. There is some research that suggests that daily intake of memory vitamins B12 and B6 results in the brain processing information at greater speeds, and also in an improved memory over time. 
Unlike B12, though, B6 can be found in various vegetable sources like carrots, dark leafy vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, cauliflower, turnip, mustard and other leafy greens, peas, legumes, garlic and potatoes. Berry fruits and citrus fruits are also good sources of Vitamin B6. It can also be found in other foods like whole grain cereals and flour, and animal sources like milk, cheese, eggs, fish, tuna, kidneys, liver and meat. "We must always have old memories and young hopes." -Houssaye Folic Acid: Yet another of these vitamins for memory is from the B group again - B9 - but known by its more common name Folic Acid. This aids in the production of red blood cells - more red blood cells means more oxygen to brain - and is also credited to improve clarity of mind. How do we get it? Lots of foods containing Vitamin B6 also contain B9. Vegetables like beans, okra, green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli and lettuce, organ meat like beef liver and kidney, and whole-grain cereals and baked goods are good sources of Folic acid. Additionally, fruits like bananas, melons, lemons, and juices like orange and tomato juice are also good sources. 
Antoxidants: Antioxidants containing Vitamin C act as excellent memory supplements to B Vitamins, by protecting our brain tissue and "preserving" our memory. Berry fruits and citrus fruits, which contain Vitamin B6, are also rich in Vitamin C. Additionally, antioxidants are also found in green tea, nuts, vegetables like sweet potatoes, red tomatoes and greens like spinach, broccoli, and fruits like prunes and raisins. A good point to remember on taking these vitamins for memory, or any vitamins for that matter, is to take them as food. If we are aware of consciously leaving out a food group in our diet, it is a good idea to supplement that with a vitamin pill. How About Gingko? Expert opinions are divided on the benefits offered by this memory supplement. While there are some that report an improvement in blood circulation (which positively affects memory), thinking and learning abilities by using this natural supplement. Others cite the lack of scientific evidence to support those claims. But most seem to agree that small amounts of Gingko, taken infrequently, may not be effective in improving memory. So, a regular regimen may need to be followed to get its full benefits. As with any dietary supplements, it is a good idea to consult a physician before taking this supplement as well. 
As stated earlier, the benefits of eating a variety of food from all food groups, along with eating a healthy breakfast everyday, cannot be overstated. If taking supplements, it is usually recommended to group all the vitamins for memory, and take them together with any other vitamins, along with or right after food, for maximum benefit. It is also a good practice to consult a doctor if you plan to take these memory vitamins for long periods of time, as prolonged, over-dosage of some of them could hurt our health in the long run. Other Herbal Remedies Herbal remedies manufacturers like Native Remedies offer plenty of other supplements and vitamins for memory, that have the potential to make positive impact on our memory. Some well-known ones are listed below:
Native Remedies is a U.S. FDA-registered facility, and you can find plenty of information about each of these supplements on their website.
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