Mopani Pharmacy at I’langa Mall’s Operations Manager, Heila Weiss, offered top advice on how to look after your brain health. Her tips include on do’s and don’ts, what to avoid and how to supplement.
Q: Heila, tell us about Omega 3, and how it supports your brain health?
A: Omega 3 consists of fatty acids found in plant-based sources such as flaxseed oil, and fish such as krill and salmon. These fatty acids make up the majority of the cell membranes of your brain. It is very important in the development of a baby’s brain and eyes. This is why pregnant women should make use of supplements throughout their pregnancies. Supplementing your Omega 3 intake may help with conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and other things that hinder your concentration.
Q: Which supplements sold at Mopani Pharmacy do you recommend, to supplement Omega 3?
A: Vital Memory and Concentration, The Real Thing Mega Omega 3+6+9, Equazen Eye Q, Solal Omega 3 Fish Oil Extract or Solgar One-A-Day EPA/GLA.
Q: What else can help someone’s brain health and concentration?
A: There’s a herb called Bacopa Monnieri that works as an anti-oxidant, and neutralises free radicals. As a result, it helps to prevent the damage caused by fat molecules reacting with free radicals. This damage is often linked to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative disorders. It may also help to improve memory, focus, and impulse control. It is also said to help with your natural resistance to stress and reduce the effects of ADHD.
Q: Which supplements sold at Mopani Pharmacy contain Bacopa Monnieri?
A: Himalaya Mentat, MemoRX and Keenmind
Q: Is there something that people often overlook in their diet that contributes to brain health?
A: Doctors and the media often remind us about vitamins and minerals. We hold a negative connotation with the word “fat”. There is however a thing called a ‘healthy fat’. In this instance, this healthy fat is Lecithin. Lecithin is found in organ meats, red meat, egg yolks and the dark green vegetables such as broccoli. Every cell in your body needs Lecithin. It also contains a chemical that your brain uses to communicate and to create pathways. Lecithin is often used as an added natural treatment for Neurodegenerative disorders and mental health issues as mentioned with Omega and Bacopa Monnieri.
Q: Which supplements sold at Mopani Pharmacy contain Lecithin?
A: Vital Lecithin, Solgar Soya Lecithin and Biolife Lecithin.
Q: What is bad for your brain health?
A: Smoking and drinking alcohol! Drug use too. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the brain, releases free radicals and eliminates anti-oxidants. Alcohol and drugs actively destroys your brain cells. Sleep deprivation is also not healthy. Your body needs to shut down and have enough time to figure everything out that it can’t do while you are awake and making use of your brain. A lack of sleep will disrupt your metabolism and hormone production, and hinder your brain performance. Stress is also very bad for your focus and can impair your ability to remember things – that is why some people have ‘blanks’ when they are writing a test or have to speak in front of people. Just relax, breathe and focus.
Q: Any last comments?
A: Get your caffeine fix at Mopani Fresh Café for that added bonus of focus and alertness! We do have amazing coffee.
And……
If you have already added supplements to your regimen, ask our friendly Mopani staff which of our products will compliment your current selection the best. If you are already supplementing and you still experience fatigue, lack of focus or memory issues, consult your doctor for an evaluation.
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