Magnesium L-Threonate: New Weapon for Brain Protection

It has been lately discovered that magnesium is vital in the activation of nerve channels that are involved in synaptic plasticity, meaning that magnesium is a critical player for the physiological events that are fundamental to the processes of learning and memory.

One form of magnesium in particular, magnesium L-threonate, has the unique ability to permeate the brain and enhance the receptors that are involved in this process. Many forms of magnesium do not effectively cross the blood brain barrier. The magnesium threonate is a chelated magnesium (similar to magnesium Glycinate) which binds the magnesium with a carrier molecule, in this case the amino acid, L-threonate. This chelation provides a form or magnesium that effectively crosses the blood brain barrier and positively impacts synapses. 

As reported in the Journal, Neuron, researchers demonstrated in laboratory animals actual enhancement in the learning abilities, working memory, as well as short and long-term memory, and even quality of sleep when given magnesium magnesium threonate.

One of the most aggressively studied forms of magnesium L-threonate is a patented version by the trade name, Magteinä, developed by researchers at MIT, including a Nobel Prize winner. Their research has  demonstrated actual restoration of function in aging neurons in laboratory animals. Further, it appears that Magteinä may, in fact, be the only form of magnesium that significantly increases the levels of magnesium within the brain.

Anecdotal reports in humans are showing benefits for PTSD, anxiety, and depression as well.  

Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical processes in the body, including binding to neurotransmitter receptors and as a co-factor for neuronal enzymes.  The Magnesium L-Threonate appears to be a form preferable for cognitive decline and neuron protection.  

Turmeric: Surprising Benefits for Brain Health

The common spice, turmeric, has been used in various types of treatments for dementia and traumatic brain injury.  Research is also showing surprisingly powerful effects of turmeric on Alzheimer's disease (AD)1.

A growing body of evidence indicates that oxidative stress, free radicals, beta-amyloid plaque, metal toxicity, and abnormal inflammatory reactions contribute to AD pathology.  Due to the various effects of turmeric, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipophilic (an affinity for fats) properties, decreased amyloid plaque, metal-chelation, and decreased microglia formation, the overall memory in AD patients using turmeric in studies has improved.

In one 2013 study in particular2, older rats experienced a "remarkable restoration" of brain function when given turmeric, especially the ability of vessels in the brain to relax and allow blood to flow freely.  The treated rats also experienced a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is associated with decreased oxidative stress and cell damage.

The effects of turmeric on AD were also demonstrated in a 2012 case study3 on three patients with "very severe" manifestations of the disease: irritability, agitation, anxiety, apathy, incontinence, and wonderings.  The patients were given 764 of turmeric every day for 12 weeks.  The results were that "behavioral symptoms improved remarkably as a result of the turmeric treatment."  In two of the tree patients, "they came to recognize their family within 1 year treatment."  

Turmeric is a common spice that can be added to food.  However, therapeutic levels such as the ones used in the studies are easier to obtain via turmeric-containing food supplements.  Additional good news is that even higher levels in supplement form are not usually expensive.

1. Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2008 Jan-Mar; 11(1): 13–19.
2.  Cell Physiol Biochem. 2013;32(5):1167-77. doi: 10.1159/000354516. Epub 2013 Nov 11.
3.  Ayu. 2012 Oct-Dec; 33(4): 499–504