Memory is a natural ability among all human beings that usually goes unthought of, until of course we feel we may be losing it. What's worse than memory losses is usually the anxiety and worry that may accompany them. Many times people think they are a precursor to more serious conditions like depression or Alzheimer's disease. But rest assured, memory lapses have absolutely nothing to do with Alzheimer's disease.

It is generally believed that with age comes an increased likelihood of developing memory loss. The mildest form of the malady is known as age-associated memory impairment (AAMI). This condition is characterized by one's perception of their own memory loss. Roughly 40 percent of those ages 65 and older experience AAMI in the US.

Age however is not to blame for all cases of memory lapses. People of all ages forget to do certain things like take out the garbage or forget where they put something like the car keys. Incidents like this are not likely to precede serious memory loss.

The key to keeping the brain sharp and active for the rest of one's life has to do with proper diet, nutrition and memory use. Unfortunately not everyone knows this, or they choose to ignore it. And one reason why memory loss affects many people is directly related to an insufficient supply of necessary nutrients (especially the B vitamins and amino acids) to the brain.

Every single cell in the body is nourished through the blood. Only certain substances however can pass from the blood stream to the brain as the brain is surrounded by a protective envelope called the blood-brain barrier. If the blood is "thick" with cholesterol and triglycerides, it becomes difficult for nutrient-rich blood to pass through the blood brain barrier. This can ultimately result in the brain becoming malnourished.

Many other factors can contribute to memory loss. Some of which include lack of neurotransmitters or the nutrients that form them and exposure to free radicals. Neurotransmitters act as electrical switches in the brain and are responsible for all functions of the body. An inadequate supply of neurotransmitters or the nutrients that form them can result in the mind going blank when trying to recall a certain piece of information. Free radical can also have a very damaging effect on memory if left left unchecked. This is why alcoholics and drug addicts often suffer from huge memory gaps even while they are conscious. These are known as "blackouts".

Other contributing factors include stress, thyroid disorders, poor circulation to the brain, hypoglycemia, allergies and candidiasis.

Following the regimen outlined below can help treat & prevent memory loss safely & naturally:

The diet should be high in raw foods. Brown rice, farm eggs, fish, tofu, wheat germ, whole grains, fish and brewer's yeast are all good for memory problems.

Drink plenty of water.

Combine complex carbohydrates with foods containing 10 percent protein and 10 percent essential fats.

Because the flavonoids in them are believed to aid in memory retention, eat more blueberries and spinach.

Get plenty of rest and exercise regularly.

Do not smoke or use tobacco products.

Avoid alcohol and don't use drugs.

Avoid refined sugars.

Reduce stress and learn to manage stressful situations when they arise.

The following supplements may also be beneficial:

High-Potency Multivitamin and Mineral Complex (take as directed on label) - Removes free radicals and provides all necessary nutrients.

Acetylcholine (take as directed on label) - helps prevent memory loss in adults.

Huperzine A (take as directed on label) - Assists the effectiveness of Acetylcholine.

Boron (3-6 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount.) - Improves brain and memory function.

Garlic (take as directed on label) - Brain cell protector that may benefit age-related memory loss.

Lecithin (1,200 mg 3 times daily before meals) - Improves memory.

Ginkgo Biloba - Increases blood flow to the brain, thus enhancing memory.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (take as directed on label) - Deficiencies have been linked to impaired brain function.

Vitamin B Complex (100 mg of each major B vitamin 3 times daily) - Needed for proper brain function.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (3,000 - 10,000 mg daily in divided doses) - Improves circulation.

Zinc (50 -80 mg daily) - Helps remove toxins from the brain and body.

Copper (3 mg daily) - Needed to work with zinc in very small doses.

Brahmi (take as directed on label) - This Ayurvedic Herb has been found to raise circulation in the brain.

* Important notes: The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.