From superfood seaweed to performance gummies – we test three supplements to improve brain health

WE know certain foods can improve the health of our gut, heart and bone. But what about our brains?

Just two per cent of us take action to care for it, a recent poll shows. 

But what we eat – from green leafy veg to fatty fish, nuts and berries – can affect memory, concentration and brain health. 

Jane Atkinson looks at supplements that can give the ol’ grey matter a boost.

BRAIN-PROTECTING PILLS

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COGNITIVE Complex from Viridan is an advanced formulation of six neuro-protective nutrients (those that look after the central nervous system).

It contains amino acids and antioxidants including phosphatidylserine, acetyl-L-carnitine, l-theanine (50mg in here versus 10mg in the gummy), alpha lipoic acid, co-Q10 plus zinc.

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It comes in an all-natural base of alfalfa, spirulina and bilberry. This formula assists normal cognitive function by protecting cells from oxidative stress.

It can then improve cellular fluidity and neurotransmitter response and promote a sense of relaxation.

A wonderful scientific mix and I love that Viridian never put in any bulking agents or nasties.

Cognitive Complex, 60 capsules (take two daily) £37.30, viridian-.

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PERFORMANCE GUMMIES

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NEURO Focus Gummies from Novomins contain ashwagandha, which can improve concentration, alpha-GPC to enhance cognitive performance, taurine to promote neuronal function, Lion’s Mane to enhance focus and L-phenylalanine for mental alertness.

Plus ginkgo biloba to improve blood circulation to the brain, guarana extract and green tea for alertness, curcumin for anti-inflammatory and l-theanine for clarity.

This is a great mix, combined with B vitamins and caffeine.

I normally like Novomins because sugar isn’t usually the main ingredient in their gummies. But in these it is.

Also I don’t like the taste. It’s supposed to be strawberry – but they tasted bitter to me.

If you can stomach the flavour it is a great mix of ingredients. £17.99 for 60 gummies (take two daily), .

SUPERFOOD SEAWEED

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DOCTOR Seaweed Weed & Wonderful Focus+ contains – you’ve guessed it – seaweed which is now described as a superfood.

It is present in one fifth of meals eaten in Japan, which has the world’s second -highest life expectancy.

Often overlooked in the West, it is a great source of iodine.

Dietary deficiencies in the mineral have been shown to impact mental and physical health and thyroid function.

Iodine is found in white fish and dairy – but seaweed is the only plant-based source.

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As well as Scottish seaweed it also contains omega 3 DHA, a vitamin B-complex and zinc, which all help mental performance.

A month’s supply (two tablets a day) is £32. See .