Short term memory loss among seniors is a common manifestation of cognitive impairment. But do you know that it can be countered by some preventive measures? Forgetfulness can affect a senior’s quality of living, can lead to depression, and ultimately to self-isolation. A senior’s overall well-being can also be compromised.

Accordingly, memory loss can be avoided. Physical exercise can prevent conditions that can contribute to memory loss and this includes stroke and diabetes. Some studies found out that physical activity can trigger BDNF, a protein that promotes healthy nerve cells in the brain.

While physical exercises can help boost memory, engaging in mental games and social activities can also combat memory loss. Engage in word puzzles, chess, and books and hang out with friends. This can ward off depression, which is one of the triggering factors of dementia. Having quality sleep can also calm your mind amidst stress. Stop smoking and refrain from alcohol. They can facilitate memory loss.

While you should do all the tips above, you should also watch out for your diet. Avoid foods that can increase your blood sugar and blood pressure. They can lead to stroke and diabetes, which can predispose you to loss of memory. Instead, try these natural memory boosters to help you avoid forgetfulness:

Coffee

You must have drunk a lot of coffee while reviewing your final exams in college. This is because many people believe that coffee can help you stay awake while keeping your mind alert. This is true because caffeine blocks adenosine which causes drowsiness. Coffee will not only make your mind alert but will also sharpen your concentration while boosting serotonin which makes you feel good.

According to studies, drinking coffee for the long term can help protect you from Alzheimer’s disease because of its antioxidant and caffeine content. Drink coffee in the morning and your mood for the day will be enhanced.

Fatty Fish

The brain makes use of omega-3 fatty acids to build brain and nerve cells. When there is memory loss, the cells of the Hippocampus or your brain’s center of memory and learning, must have been damaged. With omega -3 fatty acids, the cells of the hippocampus can be functional again. This makes fatty fish which includes salmon, sardines, and trout excellent memory boosters because they are rich sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

With this benefit of fatty fish, discover many exciting recipes using fish so you will not get bored of the same dish. Try baking, roasting, frying, fish fillets, and many more. Fish is a very flexible food item to cook. According to a study, people who baked and broiled fatty fish have more gray matter in their brain, which contains the cells for memory, emotion, and decision making.

Turmeric

Turmeric has been adjudged a wonder herb because of its many health benefits. When it comes to brain function, it is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent as curcumin, the active component of turmeric, will be able to cross the blood-brain barrier easily. It can clear amyloid plaques that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease, thus helping with memory. It is also effective in managing depression because it boosts the production and release of dopamine and serotonin.

Turmeric tea can be the easiest way to reap many health benefits of turmeric. You can add honey and lemon to disguise the taste. You can also mix it with dishes using curry powder.

Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with anthocyanins, which are plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. With these properties, taking blueberries regularly can help prevent neurodegenerative diseases which can manifest as loss of memory. The antioxidants in blueberries can also improve intercellular communication which can enhance memory.

Blueberries are excellent cake toppings. You can also add them to your smoothies or breakfast cereal. Their taste is not offensive, so you should have them every time you can.

Broccoli

This favorite vegetable of many does not only have a taste that is appealing to many taste buds but it also has many powerful plant compounds that help us with our overall well-being. It is packed with antioxidants and vitamin K. Vitamin K helps brain cells from damage by forming sphingolipids which are densely packed in the brain. Broccoli can be cooked or added to salads.

Nuts

In a study, it was found out that women, who ate more nuts regularly over several years, have a sharper memory. This must be because of the antioxidant compounds present in nuts. It is also rich in vitamin E, which is a brain booster by itself.

There are many more foods that can help you prevent memory loss. Try dark chocolates, pumpkin seeds, eggs, oranges, and green tea as they are proven to be memory enhancers. With these options, you can grow old without having to think hard about what you had during breakfast. Was it blueberry cake with coffee?