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‘Memory’ pills are bunk, Oklahoma doctor says

 
BY VALLERY BROWN | Published: December 11, 2009    Comment on this article Leave a comment

Spending money on health supplements with "memory-enhancing powers” and ingredients that "sharpen the mind” could be better spent on fresh, healthy foods, local health and nutrition experts said.

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INGREDIENTS

Some ingredients commonly sold individually or in blends often promoted as memory enhancers:

→Coenzyme Q10: An antioxidant occurring naturally in the body that is needed for normal cell reactions.

→Coral calcium: A form of calcium carbonate claimed to be from formerly living organisms. The federal Food and Drug Administration filed a formal complaint against promoters and distributors of this product in 2003.

→Phosphatidylserine: A kind of fat that surrounds nerve cells.

→Gingko biloba: A plant extract thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

→Huperzine A: A moss extract that has properties similar to some drugs that are FDA approved for Alzheimer’s treatment.

→Omega-3 fatty acids: Polyunsaturated fats with links to reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Claims about the memory enhancing qualities of these products are based on limited research, testimonials and traditions in some Eastern medicines. There are legitimate concerns about using them as an alternative or with drugs prescribed by a doctor because they can interact with other drugs. Their effectiveness and safety are largely unknown — as is their purity. Also, bad reactions are not monitored as they are with prescription drugs.

Source: Alzheimer’s Association

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Americans spent nearly $25 billion on dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs and weight loss pills in 2008. That’s up from $23.7 billion in 2007, according to The Nutrition Business Journal.

This estimate includes those products that are touted as reducing memory loss and increasing brain power and focus.

Memory supplements can be bought over the counter at pharmacies, on the Internet and in grocery stores. They typically range in price from $20 to $90 per bottle.

Dr. Calin Prodan, a neurologist at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, said memory supplements are costly, and there is limited research that their ingredients work or are safe for long-term use.

"There is very little proof that the products advertised for memory loss actually prevent or cure anything,” he said.

Prodan said some vitamins and compounds in the supplements do have positive effects on general health.

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Related Topics: Health and Fitness, Diet and Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Vitamins and Supplements



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