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Introduction
Alright, let’s talk about the five best supplements for your brain—whether you’re looking to boost brain power, sharpen memory, or just keep your mind feeling clear and focused.
1. Vitamin B12
First up is Vitamin B12—absolutely essential for your brain and nervous system. Why? Because B12 helps maintain the myelin sheath—think of it like insulation around your nerve fibers. Just like wires need insulation to work properly, your nerves need myelin to communicate efficiently.
If you’re low in B12, that protective layer starts breaking down, which can seriously impact nerve function and brain health.
But a quick tip here: avoid cyanocobalamin, the most common (and cheapest) form of B12. It actually contains a cyanide molecule—not ideal. Instead, look for adenosylcobalamin or methylcobalamin in a whole food complex—those are forms your body actually knows how to use, especially if you have methylation issues.
2. Ashwagandha
Next is Ashwagandha, an amazing adaptogenic herb that helps balance your nervous system, especially in times of stress.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, it helps calm things down. Struggling with low mood or fatigue? It can help lift you up. That’s the beauty of adaptogens—they meet your body where it’s at. Ashwagandha has a growing body of research backing its effects on stress, mood, and overall brain support.
3. Ginkgo Biloba
Number three is Ginkgo Biloba. This herbal powerhouse improves circulation to the brain, which means more oxygen and nutrients where your brain needs them most.
Better blood flow = better memory, focus, and mental clarity. If you’re feeling foggy or your brain’s just not firing the way it used to, Ginkgo could help get things moving again—literally.
4. Fish Oil (High DHA)
Number four is fish oil, but specifically one that’s high in DHA. DHA is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that your brain absolutely loves—it plays a big role in maintaining myelin and helps with the electrical signals that travel through your brain.
Without enough DHA, those signals slow down or misfire, affecting everything from memory to mood. Most of us don’t get nearly enough DHA in our diets, so a good-quality fish oil supplement can make a big difference.
5. Turmeric
Last but not least, Turmeric, or more specifically, curcumin, its active compound. Curcumin has been shown in studies to boost BDNF—brain-derived neurotrophic factor—which supports memory, learning, and neuroplasticity.
Yep, even as adults, our brains can form new connections—and curcumin can help with that. Just make sure you're taking a supplement with a high concentration of curcumin, ideally in a form that enhances absorption (like with black pepper extract).
Bonus Tip: Dark Chocolate! 🍫
Oh—and before you go, did you know dark chocolate is also amazing for your brain? I’ve got a whole video on the Best Foods for the Brain, and yes—chocolate makes the list. It’s one of my favorites. Be sure to check that out!
