The brain develops neurons continuously from birth, but its volume peaks in our early twenties and then begins to gradually decline.
In our forties, when many people start to notice subtle changes in their ability to remember new names or do more than one thing at a time, the cortex starts to shrink.1
Blood flow to the brain also decreases with time, which can impair memory and lead to changes in cognitive skills.2 The hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in the formation and retrieval of memories, begins to deteriorate. Hormones and proteins that protect and repair brain cells and stimulate neural growth also decline with age.
Because the brain can produce new cells at any age, significant memory loss is not an inevitable result of ageing. But, just as with muscle strength, exercise keeps the brain functioning properly.
Lifestyle, habits, and daily activities play vital roles in brain health and can improve cognitive skills, prevent memory loss and protect grey matter at any age.3
Physical activities and exercise, eating a balanced diet including antioxidants and omega-3s, controlling our blood pressure, addressing mental health concerns and taking brain-boosting supplements are all ways to improve memory.4,5
However, when a supplement is targeting something as important as the brain, it’s crucial to pay attention to the way it’s made, how it has been studied and what certifications it has earned. Mitsubishi Gas Chemical has pioneered an ingredient, MGCPQQ (known as BioPQQ in the US) that is designed to feed cells and boost mitochondria.
Made in Japan, it is a natural source of pyrroloquinoline quinone. Whereas similar compounds on the market are often produced synthetically, MGC uses a patented fermented process to harvest it naturally, following the highest standards for purity.
A series of clinical studies shows that the ingredient can activate mitochondrial biogenesis, meaning it can energise the mitochondria in cells. It has been shown that MGCPQQ can also boost nerve growth factor (NGF), which is important for neuron development and health, and is high in antioxidants, which help to protect cells that become damaged with age.
Studies on MGCPQQ have shown positive results related to energy, cognitive function, working memory, sleep and mood.
MGCPQQ is listed on the European Union’s list of Novel Food Ingredients. It is the most researched and tested supplement of its kind, and the only one with an NDI (New Dietary Ingredient) notification from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
It also has GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe) status, enabling it to be included as a food ingredient. It is also certified by the Informed-Choice sports supplement association, guaranteeing that every batch is tested for banned substances. This powerful, safe and effective supplement is now available for purchase throughout Europe through its first distributor, MCLS Europe.
References
- www.apa.org/research/action/memory-changes.aspx.
- www.apa.org/pi/aging/memory-and-aging.pdf.
- www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/age-related-memory-loss.htm.
- https://healthybrains.org/pillar-nutrition.
- www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/preserving-and-improving-memory-as-we-age.
