Memory and Focus As You Age: Understanding Cognitive Decline After 30

Ageing is of course a natural part of life, and cognitive decline is one of the significant changes it causes in our bodies. Age-related concentration and memory loss are common concerns as we grow older, but the good news is there are proactive steps we can each take to prevent and mitigate both concerns and counteract ageing in the brain. Understanding the distinction between normal age-related memory loss, which involves typical changes in the brain's structure and function, and more serious memory conditions like Alzheimer's disease, is crucial for addressing these concerns effectively.

Here we take a look at the factors contributing to age-related cognitive decline, the roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress, and the importance of antioxidants. NAD+ Brain is a blend of ingredients carefully selected with these factors in mind – and we’ll outline some of the key ingredients included and exactly how they work to improve memory and focus.

Factors Contributing to Age-Related Memory Loss and Concentration Difficulties

One of the major ageing processes our brains battle with is neurodegeneration. This involves the gradual loss of brain cells and a decline in their functionality, impacting our cognitive abilities. It’s why with each passing year it becomes more challenging to concentrate and remember things – and why we can spend hours just searching for our glasses!

Oxidative stress is another significant factor contributing to cognitive decline as we age. It is a result of an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralise them. ROS, including free radicals, can damage cells and DNA, which has a detrimental effect on brain health. Oxidative stress in the brain can lead to inflammation, impaired neural connections, and ultimately, memory and concentration issues. This imbalance and the resulting cellular damage can significantly affect memory, exacerbating issues related to medical conditions, stress, and negative emotions, which are known to impact cognitive functions temporarily.

Avoiding inflammation throughout our bodies is high on everyone’s wish list - and chronic inflammation up top is another key contributor to cognitive decline. In the brain, inflammation can disrupt neural connections and contribute to the loss of cognitive function. It is often associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, which sadly so many people suffer with in later years, as well as other neurodegenerative disorders. This association underlines the importance of managing chronic health problems and reviewing medications with healthcare providers to mitigate factors that can affect memory and lead to conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

Certain lifestyle choices and habits can also accelerate the process of cognitive decline. A sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary choices, inadequate sleep, high stress levels, and a lack of mental stimulation all play a role in reducing our ability to concentrate and remember key things as we age.

Prevention Strategies

So, what can we do about it? The good news is scientific research shows antioxidants in particular help combat oxidative stress by neutralising ROS and preventing the damage they cause. They really are a key component in preventing age-related concentration and memory loss. Importantly, improving blood flow to the brain can enhance these benefits, as it allows for better delivery and effectiveness of antioxidants in supporting cognitive function and combating oxidative stress. That is why we’ve ensured key antioxidants are a fundamental part of our NAD+ Brain blend, to help your brain thrive and to improve cognitive function.

Supplements to Support Cognitive Function and Prevent Decline

Let’s break down which ingredients we have included in the NAD+ Blend, and why:

Vitamin C - high up in the mix is Vitamin C and for good reason - because it helps protect brain cells from oxidative damage. 

Vitamin E – known for its ability to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, vitamin E also plays a crucial role for anyone wondering how to improve memory without medication. 

Apigenin - extracted from grapefruit, apigenin is actually a bioflavonoid with antioxidant properties. It’s understood to contribute to neuroprotection by also combating oxidative stress in the brain.

Fisetin – this fantastic flavonol is armed with both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Research suggests it promotes neural plasticity and contributes to improving cognitive ability. For the fact lovers out there – it is sourced from Cotinus Coggyria.

So far, so good. But what else, alongside these awesome antioxidants, have we added into NAD+ Brain for anyone wishing to improve memory and brain function? Well, we couldn’t leave out Choline, which appears in the format of citicoline, because it is a precursor to acetylcholine - a neurotransmitter essential for memory, learning, and cognitive function. Going hand-in-hand with choline is phosphatidylserine - this clever phospholipid is present in cell membranes and could be one of the best ways to improve cognitive function. Phosphatidylserine also helps other ingredients to enter the human brain, and amplifies their transition through the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB).

How can you prevent memory decline?

Alongside nourishing your brain, adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for preventing cognitive decline. Addressing mental health issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety is crucial in this holistic approach, as these factors can significantly impact memory and cognitive abilities. If you’re wondering what improves memory fast, then make sure to tune in to your lifestyle. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet to help improve memory with food, adequate sleep, stress management techniques, and activities that support mental health, like meditation and seeking treatment for depression, can significantly contribute to memory enhancement in ageing.

Age-related concentration and memory loss are common concerns for us all, but they are not inevitable. By understanding the factors contributing to cognitive decline, including the importance of mental health, and taking proactive steps to prevent it, you really can maintain a sharp and healthy mind as you age. Remember, it’s never too early to start taking care of your brain. Don’t wait; embark on your journey to better cognitive health today.

Researched and reviewed by Dr Elena Seranova, Ph.D.

Dr Seranova holds a master's degree in Translational Neuroscience from the University of Sheffield, UK, and a Ph.D in Stem Cell Biology and Autophagy from the University of Birmingham, UK. She is a published author in multiple peer-reviewed journals, including Cell Reports and Developmental Cell.