Expert: Michalene Peticca - 2/3/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
A man aged 42, married with 3 kid, in good health, generally, suffers from such bad memory.  He sometimes does not remember what occurred in the same morning.  He is so worried that it is serious.  Is there a memory enhance?  Type of food?  Over-the-counter-medicine?  Does he need to see a doctor?
Forgive me if you are not the expert on this topic, but I could not find one.  Can you direct me to the section of this site dealing with this issue?
Thanks a million.

ANSWER: Hello,

thank you for writing me.  I hope i can guide you in the right direction for some answers.

Generally, someone as young as 42 would not have progressive memory losses.  Therefore, it would be important to know when the memory deficits began, are they only in relation to short term memory loss and what the person's overall health is like.

I would strongly suggest beginning with a visit to a primary physician and going over a historical aspect of these memory deficits and having the physician run some basic testing; ie, blood work to begin with and deciding if a neurological consult may be necessary.

Of course a balanced diet, low stress and avoiding overuse of alcohol and medications is a must to any good health.

Hope this helps as a start!

Best Regards,
Michalene Peticca, M.A.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: He is a bit overweight, never touches alcohol, but don't know about medication.
In general: is there any food the helps? I once heard almonds do?

Answer
Hello,

Thanks again for writing.  Of course, any good balanced diet is going to help with overall health.

Specific foods that have thought to benefit memory are any associated with protein, Vit.B & Iron enriched.    So, yes, almonds/nuts would help.  Also, fish and lots of vegetables (think GREEN!)      Cut down or out red meats, fried foods, fatty foods (milk, cheeses, mayo, etc.)

Vitamin supplements are thought to be good, especially a good multi-vitamin 1 or 2x daily.

I would still consider going to a primary physician to have an overall blood chemistry profile done to see if there are any other serious concerns.  However, diet is always a great first step!!

Best Regards,
Michalene Peticca, M.A.