HOLISTIC HEALTH

Now that I have crossed the sixthdecade barrier, I find myself fretting more and more about my brain. I am perusing the professional literature about how to prevent senility, how to avoid Alzheimer's, and how to maximize my mental health. I am going to purchase some games designed to increase brain function, and worry that someone will notice I do not think as quickly as I used to.

So this week, I put together my personal "brain sustain" program. You will soon know if my program is working. My column will be witty and brilliant. I will not lose things anymore. I will remember my kids' (and grandchild's) names without fumbling. People will stop saying things "My, you look good for your age" and start saying, "My, you think well for a 40-year old." Stop laughing. I can dream, can't I?

So here is my program in a nutshell:

Fish oil: known for preventing depression and enhancing cognitive function

Phosphatidylserine: may help prevent Alzheimer's and increases cognitive function

Phosphatidylcholine: prevents memory loss

Antioxidants: prevents oxidative damage

to the fatty tissues in the brain Balanced blend of minerals, since minerals

are used for all enzymatic functions in the brain

Vitamin D: I forget why I need this for my brain but it is good for my bones and gut.

B Complex vitamin: to fuel the activity of all my brain enzymes and increase cellular energy

Chromium: balances blood sugar, and my recent nutrition test suggested I was low in chromium. Helps prevent depression, too

Iodoral: source of iodine that increases the production of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is a common cause of depression and other mental problems

There you have it. Expensive? A little, but it is worth it. Now if I could just get my face to look as young as my brain.

— Carol does lifestyle and nutrition coaching at the office of Dr. Alan Gruning in Fort Myers. For more information or to set an appointment, call 239-939-3303.