mrs

[hoender]

Just started a new job - age 62 - High concentration levels required to absorb new computer related skills. Find the look and learn system leaves me cold - but when I atempt the application I am lost - Is there any natural, herb or other OTC (over the counter) substance that can be used to assist me.  

[allmymarbles]

I was part of a gingko biloba study for two years. It certainly works for memory and I am the guinea pig to prove it. Memory is what helps you learn quickly so it should be good for you.  One suggestion: don't take it late at night. And get it from a reliable maker. We used Ginkgold.

[Paxiled]

There are many herbs that can aid the brain, but whether you'd notice it or not who knows?  Many books on the subject.  Most of the herbs send oxygen or nutrients to the brain, such as gingko, gota kola, phosphatidyl choline and serine, DHA, and many, many more.  Some combination might help, but it would be gradual.  Some notice, some don't.  I think it's more protective, but a lot of people are researching this subject, so there's a lot of info to be found by googling, both good and bad.  Lots of drugs on the net, too, but most aren't approved in the US.  A company that does a lot of research on this is Life Extension, they have a magazine that has a lot of research in it and they sell a lot of so-called brain supplements.  Up to you if you want to try any of them, but it's an area of a lot of research you can easily find.

[hoender]

Thank you for your comprehensive reply.  Pointers noted. Will certainly try to put into practice.

[gymdandee]

Exercise Your Memory!

Try these tips, which involve working your brain in new ways.
1. Be alert. It sounds elementary, but simply being aware of what is happening increases and exercises your
memory.
2. Get organized. If it’s worth memorizing, it’s worth taking notes on it, no matter what “it” is. Scientists agree:
Short-term memory can only hold seven items at one time. Choose your seven and jot down notes on others.
3. Use association. For new information, ask yourself how the information relates to ideas with which you’re
already familiar. Try familiar stimulis such as repeating or grouping like ideas.
4. Remember through teaching. Explain your new memory/idea
to someone else in your own words. This is a great tool for increasing
memory.
5. Say it out loud. Don’t worry about what others are thinking when
you think out loud. Recite what you are reading; paraphrase; review notes
out loud.
6. Set aside time for review. After learning something new, make time
to review the information. Retention relies on review; that phrase itself will
help you remember to review!
7. Exercise your memory. Learn a new subject or re-learn an old
subject from your previous schooling, such as math, science, or history
— something you have forgotten.
8. Keep a journal. A journal exercises the mind. It will also help you
remember through review.
9. Do crossword puzzles. These are great exercises for the memory.
They will help you remember and sharpen your wit too.
10. Practice using visual imagery. Go through the steps of building or creating something

include plenty of the following in your diet for improved memory.
Vitamin B-1 — Helps those who have had drinking problems, or those who have had high sugar diets.
Vegetables — Blenderize vegetables to get the most essential nutrients.
Omega-3 Fats — For improved brain function.
Vitamin E — The natural form is best.
Magnesium — Prevents atherosclerosis of brain blood vessels and blocks excitotoxicity

There is an enormous amount of evidence that brain function and health are closely tied
to our diet. Foods high in omega-6 fats (corn, safflower, sunflower, peanut, soybean and canola oils), protein, cheeses, sugar and carbohydrates are known to significantly interfere with brain function. They can also lead to a number of health problems, such as insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive behavior, anger, aggressiveness, suicide.
healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fats, improve brain function and have been shown to improve memory, IQ, and general behavior; and at the same time, they eliminate depression. One of the biggest culprits is sugar.