1. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
The first supplement on Dr. Love’s list might not be the most popular or the most well-known option on the market. But according to Dr. Love, it’s incredibly powerful as far as brain health goes. His recommendation, NAC, or N-Acetyl Cysteine, is a precursor to glutathione, which you can think of as "your body’s master antioxidant," he notes. Glutathione plays a crucial role in protecting the brain and body from oxidative stress.
"This is so powerful, the FDA actually tried to limit this or ban this several years ago," Dr. Love says. He points out that the FDA limited access to NAC in 2022. Dr. Love recommends the brand Naturbelt.
2. B-Complex Vitamins
There are tons of great reasons to take a daily B-complex vitamin. According to Dr. Love, B vitamins aren't only great for your hair, skin, and nails, but can also do wonder for your brain health. "These are helpful in making neurotransmitters, the chemical signals used throughout the brain and body," he explains, "So that’s really, really important." Dr. Love also notes that B complex vitamins could help decrease your risk of Alzheimer's.
All in all, a high-quality B-complex supplement can help ensure your brain has the nutrients it needs to function to the best of its ability. Good to know!
3. Oregano Oil
Here's another option you may not have ever considered. Believe or not, taking a daily dose of oregano oil could be a game-changer as far as brain health goes. This natural supplement offers up antibacterial and antifungal benefits. Plus, according to Dr. Love, it can do even more. "Dr. Josh Hellman, a medical doctor from Harvard, talks about how oregano oil can help kill brain parasites," he tells us. Brain parasites certainly may sound alarming. In reality, they're rare, but they do pose a serious threat to cognitive health. Luckily, oregano oil may be able to combat any potential parasites. It's definitely worth having on your supplement radar!
Bottom line
At the end of the day, it's important to remember that many factors can impact your brain health. Prioritizing healthy habits like a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial to your wellbeing, including when it comes to your cognitive health. However, adding the right supplements to the mix, such as Dr. Love's suggestions, can be a great way to give your brain a boost and improve your cognitive function for years to come.