Cognitive Balance By NuMedica Overview & Drug Interactions

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, and fortified grains. It plays a variety of roles in the body, including in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also necessary for the production of energy in the body and in the synthesis of different hormones. Niacin deficiency is rare in developed countries, however, supplementation has been shown to have several positive benefits. For example, it can reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy (i.e., nerve pain) and has been shown effective for treating some types of high cholesterol (extended-release niacin is used as a prescription drug in the United States for this purpose). There is a multitude of niacin forms available as dietary supplements, including NADH, niacinamide, and nicotinamide riboside, all with different properties.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Inositol is a type of carbohydrate (sugar alcohol) that is found in a variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, and grains. It is also known as vitamin B8 but is not considered 'essential' as it can be synthesized in the human body. Inositol is involved in a number of important physiological processes, including the metabolism of fats, the regulation of insulin, and the transmission of nerve impulses. Inositol is a popular dietary supplement and is believed to have a number of potential health benefits. It is thought to have a role in the treatment of certain mental health conditions, is believed to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and may be helpful in the prevention or management of heart disease. In addition, inositol may have anti-inflammatory effects and may be helpful in the treatment of certain skin conditions.

Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained through the diet since the body cannot produce it on its own. It plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and various metabolic processes. Methionine is commonly found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish, dairy products, and certain plant-based sources, making it an important component of a balanced diet to support overall health and proper bodily functions.

Choline is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods, including eggs, and is important for a number of bodily functions, including liver function, brain development, and nerve function. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory, mood, and muscle control. Choline also helps to transport fats out of the liver, which may help to reduce the risk of liver disease. Choline supplements are available in different forms, including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and phosphatidylcholine. Choline bitartrate is the most common form of choline supplement, but phosphatidylcholine is the form that is found naturally in foods.

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that plays a crucial role in cell structure and function, particularly in the brain. It's a key component of cell membranes, aiding in cell signaling and maintaining cellular integrity. In the context of the brain, phosphatidylserine supports cognitive function, memory, and neurotransmitter regulation. Additionally, it's commonly used as a dietary supplement to potentially enhance cognitive performance and mitigate age-related cognitive decline.