Boosting Your Memory with Citicoline

Host: So what are some of the most popular, well-studied supplements that you've seen in your practice that help people with memory?Dr. Stengler: Well, one of the supplements most of you probably have not heard about is called citicoline. Citicoline is a natural nutrient you can get it as a supplement and it's been shown in several very good studies to help with memory. It actually helps your brain cells produce energy more effectively, and just like all the cells of the body, the cells in your brain have to produce energy effectively for your memory to work properly. So that's very important. It also neutralizes what are called free radicals these damaging molecules that can actually damage your brain cells and citicoline helps to offset that.Host: And as a supplement, it's not IV they can take it orally, is that correct?Dr. Stengler: Well, interestingly, there are food sources, but people generally aren't going to consume them. The foods high in citicoline are liver and brain.Host: Yeah, that's not going to that's gross. Can't recommend that too often.Dr. Stengler: But there have been several studies done on citicoline. Let me share a few. For example, a study with older adults showed that citicoline supplementation significantly improved both immediate memory and short-term memory.Host: How long did it take? Does it say?Dr. Stengler: Most of the studies are 8 to 12 weeks. And yes, citicoline is naturally present in the body so it's another one of those nutrients that we could be, quote unquote, deficient in. It's not considered an essential nutrient, but citicoline taken at higher levels has, in numerous studies, been shown to help improve memory and it's non-toxic. Now, don't get me wrong: it does not cure Alzheimer's disease, and it may slow its progression to some degree, but nevertheless it's one way to improve quality of life in someone who does have Alzheimer's disease, without any toxicity. And remember, these types of supplements can often be combined with their medications though of course they would need to check with their doctor first before doing that. But it's very, very safe to use.