Brainology.TV

5 Ways to Enhance Your Memory

By Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Mike Roizen, MDs

"Right now," said Steven Wright, "I'm having amnesia and deja vu at the same time. I think I've forgotten this before." And while it's true that youngsters do forget names, math facts, and when Dad said to be home, many folks 50 and older notice that their recall (what year did we go to California?) isn't what it used to be.

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5 Ways to Enhance Your Memory

By Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Mike Roizen, MDs

When you have such a senior moment, it's just a stutter in what's called episodic memory, and rarely is it long-lasting. But if you're concerned about your recall, talk to your doc about stress, sleep problems, depression, thyroid disease, diabetes, vitamin B-12 deficiency, excess alcohol use, infections, and your medications. They're all possible memory-busters. And try our unforgettable, brain-boosting tips!

1. Walk fast for at least 30 minutes daily, heading for 10,000 steps a day. Any exercise, but especially aerobics that make you sweat, is the very best memory enhancer.

2. Cut body-wide inflammation with omega-3 DHA from salmon or ocean trout; and take 900 mg of DHA from algal oil daily. Add in more omega-3s: walnuts, canola, and extra-virgin olive oil.

3. Try the spice turmeric to reduce triglyceride levels, increase fat burning, and keep blood sugar steady. Dr. Mike carries packets of yellow mustard, full of turmeric, to add to snacks and meals.

4. Take two baby aspirins daily (if your doc approves) with a half-glass of water before and after.

5. Get romantic. The neurotransmitter dopamine helps control information flow and memory. Levels decrease with age, but zoom up with sexual activity.

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