Preserving Memory at Every Age

Aging is a normal process of life. Not only do we experience physical changes, but we also experience mental changes, including memory decline or "unusual forgetfulness." Traditionally, learning new things, recalling information, and thinking on our feet as we age were thought to be more difficult, causing stress, anxiety, and withdrawal from social and physical interactions. In recent years, however, we have seen that lifestyle, stress, genetics, and environment all play a role in memory loss or decline. With life expectancy on the rise, it is important to focus on our memory, not only in our later years but also when we are younger. 

Many areas of the brain contribute to the creation and storing of memories. The hippocampus, part of the limbic system, allows learning and creating memories. Specific memories from the hippocampus will then transfer to the neocortex, part of the cerebral cortex, giving us general knowledge such as, "I don't like cold weather." Lastly, the amygdala, an almond-shaped structure in the brain's temporal region, holds emotional memories that are not easily forgotten. It allows us to form new memories, but if negative memories are held by the amygdala, they can negatively affect new memories and engender fear, stress, and anxiety. 

As we age, the brain's structure loses its muscle memory, causing forgetfulness, slow thinking, and a lack of focus. By the age of six, the brain is nearly 90% developed. Brain shrinkage begins in our early to mid-thirties and increases by age 60. It is estimated that after the age of 65, 40% of the population will start to experience mild memory loss such as, "Where did I put my grocery store list," although it usually does not affect our ability to function daily. 

From a Western perspective, normal memory decline can be managed. Dementia, on the other hand, is slow and gradual and includes memory impairment, reason, judgment, and severe mood changes that can significantly affect one's life. Decreased blood to the brain can also cause age-related memory decline due to hormones and proteins that help repair and protect the brain. When these cells and hormones decline, they affect the growth of the neurons, potentially leading to stroke. Age-related memory loss can also be caused by medications, hypo- or hyperthyroidism, alcoholism, recreational drug use, dehydration, vitamin B-12 deficiency, and anxiety or depression. 

In recent research, nutrients such as DHA and EPA — omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to improve age-related memory loss. Omega fatty acids also help increase circulation to the brain, while nutrients like DMAE and phosphatidylserine (PS) in Brain Boost help reduce amyloid plaque build-up and improve neuron health, respectively. When these cells and hormones decline, they affect the growth of the neurons, potentially leading to stroke. Age-related memory loss can also be caused by medications, hypo- or hyperthyroidism, alcoholism, recreational drug use, dehydration, vitamin B-12 deficiency, and anxiety or depression. 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kidney Jing or Essence is a substance that is an expression of the fluids of our bodies. It is responsible for both our soul and body and is considered pure and subtle. Our memories are essentially our Kidney Jing; they are the backbone of our internal self, giving us our sense of being and reminding us of who and what is vital in our lives. Kidney Jing is stored in the Kidneys and is considered the most essential substance in the body. The Kidney network in Chinese medicine refers to not just the organs, but the endocrine system where hormones like estrogen and testosterone production decrease with aging. This stem's degeneration leads to cognitive decline.

In addition, according to Chinese Medicine, the Spleen and Heart networks are also responsible for memory. The Spleen network isn't just an organ that produces lymphocytes, but represents the digestive function of nutrient extraction and healthy microbiome that are critical for concentration, focus, studying, and memorizing. The spirit of the Heart network is the Shen, representing both the conscious mind and cardiovascular systems that are essential for the memory of learned actions, such as learning how to ride a bike versus the memory of riding a bike. Altogether, the neuroendocrine-cardiovascular system underlies healthy cognitive functions.

Clinically, from a Chinese medical perspective, treatment will include nourishing the Kidney Jing or essence, the Qi or energy of Spleen and Heart networks with a personalized diet and nutrition, customized herbal formulation and supplementation, and acupuncture to stimulate neuron synapses and blood flow.

At the Tao of Wellness, herbs prescribed for age-related memory loss often include Alpinia seed, astragalus root, hawthorn berry, American ginseng, Salvia root, and reishi mushroom. 

In addition, we also suggest the following.

If you are concerned about memory loss, schedule an appointment with your health care provider. Most likely, your doctor will inquire about the following: signs and symptoms, the approximate time when memory loss began, a discussion about issues or difficulties with everyday activities, language or verbal challenges, a review of current medications and supplements, and an assessment of your mental health.

From a TCM perspective, treatment will include nourishing the Kidney Essence, Qi and Yin, Spleen Qi, Heart Qi, Blood, and Yin. As we age, all of these begin essences begin to decline, so it is important to engage the help of your TCM practitioner. With proper rest, exercise, diet, herbal medicine, supplements, and acupuncture, cognitive functions can be improved. In addition, your TCM practitioner may also suggest the following:

Mind-Body

Mind-body practices such as Self-Healing Qi-Gong or restorative yoga. In studies, both have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation and stress hormones such as cortisol. Deep breathing can also be beneficial in optimizing oxygen intake for your brain. Take time out to sit and relax or to read a book that has been waiting on your bookcase and hoping to be read.

Diet and Nutrition

Foods for Kidney Essence, Qi, and Yin: Warm foods, black beans, sesame seeds, seaweed, kelp, lamb, beef, soybeans, chives, goji berries, and walnuts.

Foods for Spleen Qi: Warm foods, no sugar or yeast, sweet potatoes, taro, quinoa, lentils, oats, pumpkin, miso soup, squash, and orange peels.

Foods for Heart Qi, Blood, Yin: Warm foods, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, adzuki beans, black beans, mung beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, fava beans, Jujube dates, lotus seeds, black sesame seeds, longan fruit, lily bulb, mulberries, apples, banana, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, mango, coconut, olive oil, flaxseed oil, almond oil.

Memory decline is a normal progression in life. It is essential to take steps when we are younger to keep our memory functioning fully and promote our overall health and longevity. Please feel free to book an appointment practitioners at Tao of Wellness, and we will be happy to work with you on any age-related memory issues.