“Forgetting things the moment you turn around”… Time to take care of your brain health
Memory: A key factor that determines quality of life in later years
Ignoring forgetfulness can lead to cognitive decline
Phosphatidylserine, a type of phospholipid, shown to help maintain and improve memory after 12 weeks of intake in adults with an average age of 60.5
“Did I really say that? When?”
“Why did I come in here again?”
These are common experiences that come with aging. Most people brush them off, thinking, “That’s just part of getting older.” However, experts warn that repeated forgetfulness should not be dismissed as simple absent-mindedness.
Memory is not just about recalling the past. It is the foundation of how we process information, understand situations, and make decisions. When memory begins to decline, cognitive function follows—and with it, judgment. Forgetting your door code, getting lost on familiar streets, or even failing to recognize loved ones are no longer distant possibilities.
When people think about preparing for old age, they often focus on physical health—strong legs or a healthy heart. But experts emphasize that the most important organ determining quality of life is ultimately the brain. Even with a healthy body, declining memory and cognition can affect daily life, financial independence, health management, and relationships.
In today’s era of increased longevity, it’s not just about living longer—it’s about living clearly and independently. This is why interest in maintaining memory and cognitive function is growing. Among the most researched nutrients in this field is phosphatidylserine (PS).
Essential Nutrient for Memory and Cognitive Function: Phosphatidylserine
Once known mainly as a “student supplement,” phosphatidylserine is now recognized as one of the most well-studied nutrients for age-related cognitive health.
Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that forms part of cell membranes, with particularly high concentrations in brain cells. It plays a critical role in activating communication pathways at synapses—the connection points between neurons—and regulating neurotransmitter receptors.
In simple terms, it provides the structural foundation that allows the brain to process information quickly and accurately.
However, as we age, the body’s ability to produce phosphatidylserine declines. This leads to stiffening of neuronal membranes and less efficient signal transmission between cells—ultimately contributing to memory loss and cognitive decline.
Because the body cannot produce sufficient amounts on its own, external supplementation may help restore neural communication and improve overall brain efficiency.
12 Weeks of Intake Shows Measurable Cognitive Improvement
The benefits of phosphatidylserine have been demonstrated in multiple clinical studies.
According to research published in the renowned neurology journal Neurology, individuals with cognitive decline (average age 60.5) who took 300 mg of phosphatidylserine daily for 12 weeks showed significant improvements.
Their memory test scores were comparable to individuals 13.9 years younger.
Learning ability improved to levels similar to those 11.6 years younger, while facial recognition and numerical memory also showed measurable gains.
These results suggest that consistent supplementation may help reactivate slowed neural pathways and improve cognitive performance.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract: Supporting Brain Cells Through Improved Circulation
While phosphatidylserine supports the structural integrity of brain cells, ginkgo biloba extract is often recommended alongside it to improve the brain’s working environment.
Ginkgo contains key compounds such as flavonoids, ginkgolides, and bilobalide:
- Flavonoids provide strong antioxidant protection against cellular damage
- Ginkgolides improve microcirculation by reducing platelet aggregation
- Bilobalide helps stabilize mitochondria, protecting neuronal energy systems
Together, these components help protect brain cells and ensure efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients.
Proven Benefits for Memory and Cognitive Function
Clinical studies further support the benefits of ginkgo biloba extract.
In a trial involving Alzheimer’s patients (333 participants) and vascular dementia patients (71 participants) aged 50 and older, those who took 240 mg daily for 24 weeks showed improvements in cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Additional studies involving postmenopausal women and healthy adults also demonstrated measurable improvements in memory after short-term supplementation.
These findings confirm that ginkgo biloba extract can help slow brain aging, enhance circulation, and support overall cognitive performance.
Take Control of Brain Health for a Confident Future
Phosphatidylserine helps optimize how brain cells communicate, while ginkgo biloba improves blood flow and energy supply to those cells.
When taken together, they may create a synergistic effect—enhancing both neural activity and circulation, leading to more effective cognitive support.
Aging does not mean accepting memory loss as inevitable. Taking proactive steps to maintain brain health is essential for living independently, confidently, and with clarity in later life.
Source: 동아일보 (https://www.donga.com/)