10/06/2018 / By Ellaine Castillo
A lot of people take brain supplements to increase their overall mental performance. One of the major components of these supplements is the nutrient citicoline which, according to existing studies, can help improve different brain functions and brain health.
Although citicoline is already found in the body, it should be taken in the form of supplements in order for one to experience its therapeutic benefits. It is initially broken down by the body into choline and cytidine so that it can be absorbed in the intestines. From there, choline and cytidine will cross the blood-brain barrier and will reform into citicoline upon reaching the brain.
Citicoline is able to increase the levels of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are natural chemicals that are used by brain cells to communicate with each other. Acetylcholine aids in the process of turning short-term memories into long-term ones. Meanwhile, dopamine increases motivation, productivity, and focus.
The different brain functions, such as focus and memory, require large amounts of energy. Glucose metabolism and blood flow continuously provide the brain with the energy it needs since the brain cannot store energy. By taking supplements with citicoline, the rate of glucose metabolism and blood flow to the brain are increased. Energy produced by the mitochondria, known as the powerhouse of the cell, is also increased when citicoline is present, especially in the prefrontal cortex.
In addition, citicoline also functions as a nootropic, which is a substance that improves brain performance. This includes functions such as memory, intelligence, attention, focus, and motivation.
Aside from those previously mentioned, another benefit of citicoline is that it is able to protect the brain from damage. Citicoline serves as a precursor of phosphatidylcholine, a crucial component of the cell membrane. This cell membrane is semi-permeable and only allows the passage of nutrients, water, and oxygen while keeping potentially harmful foreign substances out of the cell. Citicoline also stabilizes the cell membrane so that it would retain its integrity.
Another way for citicoline to protect the brain is by countering free radical damage and inflammation. Since the brain makes use of a lot of oxygen for energy, it is susceptible to more unattached oxygen molecules (free radicals). These free radicals attack the brain and trigger inflammation, which then causes cell aging and many other neurological and psychiatric disorders like Alzheimer’s, stroke, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Citicoline doesn’t just help protect the brain from damage. It also treats the brain from already existing neurological conditions. In addition, it has been observed that citicoline also has the potential to treat patients with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and even addiction. Before it was used in supplements, citicoline was initially used as a prescription for stroke victims and for people with cognitive disorders. (Related: Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease overtake heart disease as the leading cause of death in America.)
Aside from taking brain supplements, other methods to improve brain health include:
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