Quick and Easy Brain Health QUIZ (Try It!)
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 26, 2023
Have you ever wondered HOW you would even know if you were “losing your marbles?”
After all, you’re the one going through it, right? Chances are, you wouldn’t notice.
Turns out, there’s a simple test that scientists use to identify someone who might be headed down the dark road to dementia.
And while you CAN’T diagnose yourself (and shouldn’t try to), you CAN use this same kind of test to clue you in to the state of your own “marbles.”
(Then make an appointment with your doc to review your results and get official testing if needed.)
It’s called a verbal fluency test. And when I said “simple,” I meant it.
When taking a verbal fluency test, participants are given a category of words and timed as they come up with as many as they can think of that fit the bill.
This might be like naming as many animals or fruits as possible before the clock runs out. Or coming up with as many words as possible that start with a particular letter in 30 seconds.
Generally, providing 10 to 15 words in 30 seconds means you’re reasonably fluent or normal. (Although the measurements may differ if your doctor gives you an official test.)
While not perfect, a verbal fluency test is a quick and easy way to assess your brain.
But here’s the thing…
Recent research uncovered a way to IMPROVE your verbal fluency.
And that’s to take an alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) supplement.
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that supplementing with alpha-linolenic acid significantly improved verbal fluency in a group of 65–80-year-olds compared to a group that received a look-alike placebo.
Volunteers receiving the real-deal supplement received 3.7 grams of flaxseed oil daily (2.2 grams of ALA a day).
The researchers believe the ALA improves brain cell-to-cell communication (intercellular connectivity), which makes brains work better.
ALA is one essential fatty acid your body needs, but it’s not the only one. DHA and EPA (found in fish oil) are ALSO vital to keep your brain working well into your golden years.
But why stop there?
Build yourself a “steel trap” brain by getting plenty of these other brain-protecting nutrients, too, including:
- Creatine is an amino acid that’s good for the brain and supports energy production. Studies show that the amino acid can improve cognition and communication.
- CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant with neuroprotective effects and helps provide energy throughout the body, including the brain.
- Antioxidants protect against cell damage and include vitamins A and C. But I especially like the phytonutrients (polyphenols, carotenes, etc.) found in superfood supplements.
- Herbs, such as curcumin and bacopa, decrease inflammation and act as powerful antioxidants. Bacopa has been used for centuries to improve memory in Ayurvedic medicine. And modern research confirms it may help improve brain function. And curcumin boosts levels of the hormone BDNF which triggers the growth of new neurons.
And remember exercise, lowering stress levels, and getting good sleep are ALSO great for your brain.
P.S. Want a “younger,” more flexible brain? Believe it or not, it starts with a trip to the grocery store. I’ve got the whole scoop RIGHT HERE.
Source:
Study: “Supplementation with Flaxseed Oil Rich in Alpha-Linolenic Acid Improves Verbal Fluency in Healthy Older Adults.” Nutrients 2023, 15, 1499. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15061499
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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