Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is another orthomolecule, and an important cofactor for making biological energy. ALC provides the acetyl group to make acetylcholine (ACh). Its benefits against memory loss have been modest in double blind trials on Alzheimer’s patients, and it was outperformed by GPC in one controlled trial; but, ALC may help with less severe memory loss. Taking ALC very late in the day may delay onset of sleep.
On the botanical side, one finds Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), an herbal preparation that is antioxidant, protective and improves blood flow to the brain. GBE’s memory benefits typically are very modest, but a new preparation that combines GBE with PS may enhance the speed of memory task performance. In the study, GBE alone and GBE+PC were significantly less active than GBE+PS.
Bacopa (Bacopa monniera, Indian water hyssop) is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal memory tonic. In controlled trials, bacopa improved attention, long-term memory and anxiety. The standardized bacopa preparation is very safe to take and is well tolerated by children and adults alike.
Disorders of memory, learning, mood and behavior are epidemic in North America. Nutrients that have proven benefits and safety for brain support afford excellent opportunities to make the healthy brain more productive and give the challenged brain a second chance. Proven brain nutrients can be used individually and in combination, as well as adjunctively with the modest drugs so far approved for severe memory loss.
Parris M. Kidd., Ph.D., is the founder of PMK Biomedical and Science & Ingredients Inc., located in Carlsbad, Calif. For further information, contact the author at dockidd@dockidd.com.
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