Brain Archives - StonehengeHealth.com

November 7, 2024

Boost Your Brain with Every Bite: Dark Chocolate and Almond Oatmeal with Blueberry Compote

Woman preparing healthy dieting vegan nutritious breakfast. Female hand pouring honey in the bowl with oatmeal porridge with walnuts and blueberries.

As the days grow colder and cozy mornings call for something warm and nourishing, here’s a delicious way to feed your body and brain.

This dark chocolate and almond oatmeal with blueberry compote contains ingredients that support cognitive health, memory, and focus. Perfect for starting your day with a brain-boosting breakfast that’s as comforting as it is nutritious! Plus each serving offers up 7 grams of fiber to support digestion and healthy blood sugar as well.

Why This Recipe Supports Brain Health

This dish is carefully crafted to combine brain-supportive ingredients:

• Oats provide steady, slow-releasing energy to fuel your morning without the sugar crash.

• Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids and is known to enhance memory, focus, and mood.

• Almonds offer healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, all linked to brain health.

• Blueberries contain antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which may help support memory.

OK, let’s get to the recipe!

Recipe for Dark Chocolate and Almond Oatmeal with Blueberry Compote

chocolate with almonds on black background

Servings: 2

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

Oatmeal base:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)

• 1/4 cup almond slivers, toasted

• 1 oz dark chocolate, chopped (70% cocoa or higher)

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Blueberry compote:

• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions

1. Prepare the blueberry compote:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, and honey. Stir occasionally, cooking until the blueberries start to burst and the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the oats:

In a separate pot, bring the almond milk to a simmer. Add the oats and cinnamon, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes or until the oats are soft and creamy. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted, then add honey or maple syrup if you prefer extra sweetness.

3. Assemble the bowl:

Divide the oatmeal between two bowls. Top each bowl with a generous spoonful of blueberry compote and a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers.

Enjoy this warming, brain-boosting breakfast while it’s hot.

To support your brain health every morning, consider adding Dynamic Brain to your routine.

Why Add Dynamic Brain to Your Routine?

While this oatmeal bowl contains nutrients known to support cognitive health, it’s just the beginning of your brain wellness journey. Imagine amplifying these benefits with a targeted supplement designed to help support short-term memory acquisition and retention and a healthy brain during the normal aging process.

Dynamic Brain is designed to support your brain’s cognitive ability with a blend of 40 brain health ingredients, including nootropics such as Huperzine A, DHA, and Phosphatidylserine.* Plus its star ingredient, one of the best-studied nootropic herbs available, BacoMind® Bacopa monnieri.

Taking Dynamic Brain daily can help you remember more and forget less, giving your brain the extra support it needs to function at its best.

Dynamic Brain helps sharpen your memory so you can remember details, improve both immediate and delayed recall and enjoy smoother, more fluid conversations without searching for words.* It’s designed to enhance cognitive function and support verbal learning, helping you retain new information.*

September 24, 2024September 24, 2024

BacoMind® Spotlight: A Premium Bacopa Monnieri Extract to Elevate Memory and Cognitive Ability

If you’ve spent any time researching brain supplements, you’ve likely come across Bacopa monnieri, a herb celebrated for its cognitive-supporting benefits. But when choosing the best Bacopa monnieri for your mind, not all options are created equal.

Today we’re going to do a deep dive into BacoMind®, a premium form of Bacopa monnieri that we’ve just added to our best-selling Dynamic Brain formula. We’ll provide an overview of BacoMind®, discuss how it works, explain why it stands out, and how it can help support optimal brain health.*

Let’s dive in.

What is BacoMind®?

Bacopa monnieri, a perennial, creeping herb, water hyssop, water hyssop, brahmi, thyme-leafed gratiola, herb of grace, Indian pennywort. Flowers for balconies. Background

BacoMind® is a clinically researched, patented extract of Bacopa monnieri, a herb that has been a staple in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Known for its ability to support memory, learning, and overall cognitive function, Bacopa monnieri has recently gained the attention of modern science for its potential benefits in brain health.

Additionally, BacoMind® is the only bacopa extract supported by a human safety clinical study. The results of five clinical studies show that it helps to improve cognitive function and memory during aging and is safe.

BacoMind® has been specifically designed to maximize the absorption of the herb’s active compounds, making it a superior choice compared to other Bacopa extracts on the market. BacoMind® also boasts an impressive profile of nine bioactive compounds that have been shown to enhance mental performance and protect against age-related cognitive decline.

How Does BacoMind® Work?

BacoMind® works by increasing communication between neurons, enhancing the brain’s ability to retain and process information.

It also supports the function of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, which are crucial for learning and memory.

Additionally, BacoMind® acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which can be a factor in cognitive aging.

The neuroprotective properties of BacoMind® make it a powerful tool for maintaining sharp cognitive function as you age.* Whether you’re looking to improve memory, acquisition or/and retention, BacoMind® is designed to help keep your brain performing at its best.*

Health Benefits of BacoMind®

Three Mature Female Friends In Lounge At Home Meeting For A Chat

Now that we’ve covered the science behind BacoMind®, let’s highlight the top benefits you can experience when incorporating this standout ingredient into your routine.

• Support Memory Acquisition and Retention*

• Enhance Immediate Memory Recall*

• Improve Delayed Recall Memory*

• Have Fluid Conversations, Forget Fewer Words*

• Improve Cognitive Function and Verbal Learning*

• Support Brain Health*

BacoMind® has been clinically shown to enhance both short-term and long-term memory, making it an ideal choice for those looking to improve cognitive function in daily life.* Whether you’re learning something new or simply want to retain more of what you already know, BacoMind® supports better memory recall.*

Why We Chose BacoMind® for Dynamic Brain

At Stonehenge Health, we believe in delivering the most effective and premium-quality ingredients to support your cognitive health.

That’s why we added BacoMind® Bacopa monnieri to our Dynamic Brain formula. As the only Bacopa extract supported by a human safety clinical study, BacoMind® stands out as a powerful, trusted ingredient for boosting memory and cognitive function.

Our customers deserve the best, so we’ve sourced the highest-quality ingredients on the market.

Dynamic Brain is designed to help you remember more and forget less, and BacoMind® plays a crucial role in achieving that.* Whether you’re struggling with occasional memory lapses, like forgetting names or misplacing items, or simply want to enhance your brain’s performance, Dynamic Brain provides the support you need to keep yourself sharp.*

Upgrading our bacopa extract to BacoMind® in Dynamic Brain allows us to offer you an advanced cognitive-enhancing formula that improves memory acquisition and retention and enhances immediate and delayed recall.*

Combined with 40 other neuro-nutrients, including nootropics like Huperzine A, DHA, and Phosphatidylserine, Dynamic Brain is a comprehensive solution to support brain health, combat oxidative stress, and maintain cellular health.*

By choosing Dynamic Brain with BacoMind®, you’re empowering your mind to stay sharp, fluid, and focused—giving you the confidence to live a happier, more fulfilling life.*

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

New Recipe: Brain-Boosting Summer Wraps

What makes food ‘healthy’ in your mind?

We all have pre-determined notions of what ‘healthy’ means to us, but if you take a second to examine why you hold these beliefs, I know you’ll learn something.

So let’s give it a try—really.

Is a certain food healthy because it’s low in calories? Because it’s a vegetable?

Sorry, this was kind of a trick question…

Because when it comes to ‘healthy’ food, balance is key. Our bodies require a variety of nutrients, and no single item can provide everything. This opens up a world of possibilities to explore the diverse offerings of nature while nourishing our bodies.

Today, I want to give you a (delicious) recipe that I’ve developed to help nurture your brain.

That’s right, today’s healthy recipe is designed with ingredients research shows support brain health. In other words we’re feeding it the vitamins and nutrients it craves. I’ll even give you a quick breakdown of how each ingredient supports healthy brain function at the end.

I call this one my Brain-Boosting Summer Wraps…

It’s delicious and light (perfect for summer), easy to make, and full of the ingredients you need to help you stay mentally sharp.

Ingredients

For the wraps:

• 4-100% whole wheat tortillas

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas

• 1/2 cup cooked and flaked salmon

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves

• 1/2 avocado, sliced

• 2 boiled eggs, chopped

• 1 tablespoon Bacopa monnieri leaves, finely chopped

For the yogurt dressing:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the quinoa and chickpeas:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.

2. In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.

3. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover.

4. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.

5. Remove from heat and let it cool.

6. Drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned.

Prepare the yogurt dressing:

7. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the wraps:

8. Lay out the whole wheat tortillas on a clean surface.

9. Evenly distribute the spinach leaves, cooked quinoa, chickpeas, flaked salmon, chopped walnuts, shredded carrots, sliced avocado, and chopped eggs across the tortillas.

10. Sprinkle the finely chopped Bacopa monnieri leaves over the fillings.

Dress the wraps:

11. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the fillings.

12. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll up tightly from the bottom to form a wrap.

Serve the wraps immediately or wrap them in foil to enjoy later. Perfect for a picnic, lunch, or light dinner.

Nutritional Info:

Servings: 4 / Serving Size: 1 wrap / Calories: 400-450 / Fat: 18g-22g / Protein: 20g-25g / Carbohydrates: 40g-45g / Sugar: 5g-7g / Fiber: 8g-10g

These brain-boosting summer wraps are packed with nutrients, combining the cognitive benefits of Bacopa monnieri and choline with a rich mix of vitamins, minerals, Omega-3 fatty acids, complex carbohydrates, and protein.

Two standout brain nutrients in this recipe are:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Walnuts, Salmon, and avocado in this recipe provide essential omega-3s. The brain is the fattiest organ in the body (composed of about 60% fat!) which is why it’s essential to supply your brain with this nutrient.

Choline: Eggs are one of the best sources of choline. A nutrient crucial to producing acetylcholine, which supports memory, learning, concentration, and motor skills.That’s why adding choline into your daily diet can help improve memory and attention in healthy adults

There’s another powerful brain ingredient I want to bring to your attention.

Bacopa Monnieri is lesser known outside of the health and wellness space, but it’s effect on cognitive function is definitely worth noting.

Now it’s not always easy to find in the average grocery store. So don’t worry if you have to leave it out of these wraps. I assure you they’ll still taste just as delicious.

Unfortunately, you’re unlikely to find Bacopa Monnieri in many recipes, and even if you do, you’re unlikely to get sufficient quantity needed to provide the cognitive benefits like memory, focus, and learning.*

I urge you to get it in a supplement form.

This is where Dynamic Brain from Stonehenge Health can help.

Packed with 40 unique ingredients, including potent servings of the choline and Bacopa Monnieri, Dynamic Brain’s impressive nootropic blend helps support healthy concentration and alertness.*

It’s not wonder it’s our best selling product. It’s hard for us to keep this in stock.

So I must tell you that right now we’re fully stock! So get a bottle now before we sell out again!

Ready to explore this powerful nootropic supplement?

April 24, 2024April 24, 2024

12 Brain Games to Keep You Sharp

Portrait of Asian Senior Elderly male spend leisure time

Brain-training games are popular among people of all ages for enhancing mental functions and slowing cognitive aging.

In fact, studies indicate that these games can potentially boost attention, memory, response times, logical reasoning, and other cognitive abilities when played consistently over an extended period.¹

Did we mention that they can be a lot of fun, too?

You’ll discover our 12 favorite games you can play to keep your mind engaged.

Let’s get started.

Digital games for your phone or tablet

joyful couple sits on a bed, sharing a video call on their mobile phone.

If you have a mobile phone or tablet, you can access a virtually unlimited amount of brain games.

Here are our favorites.

1. Chess.com

Chess is excellent for enhancing strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. It requires players to anticipate their opponent’s moves, which improves foresight and planning abilities.

You’re undoubtedly familiar with the classic board game version of chess, but you may not know you can also play it online. Chess.com allows you to play against a wider range of opponents, puzzles, and gameplay, which can introduce new strategies and challenges. The online experience is designed for your phone and tablet and is surprisingly easy to learn.

2. Lumosity

This app provides a series of brain games designed specifically to target areas like memory, attention, flexibility, speed of processing, and problem-solving skills. Lumosity’s games adapt to the user’s performance to push cognitive capabilities gradually.

3. CogniFit

Senior woman using digital tablet at home.

Similar to Lumosity, CogniFit offers a variety of games designed to boost several cognitive abilities. Each game is scientifically designed to target specific brain functions and is adjusted in difficulty based on your performance, helping to train and improve cognitive skills over time.

4. Wordle

This popular word puzzle game took the world by storm at the beginning of 2022. Wordle challenges players to guess a five-letter word within six attempts. Each guess provides feedback in the form of colored tiles, indicating when letters match or occupy the correct position.

It’s a great way to start your morning and ‘wake up’ your brain. Plus, it’s easy to text your results to your friends and family to create some healthy competition.

Analog games

cheerful husband and wife playing jenga game on table

If you’re looking to put your phone or tablet away and engage with something more tactile, here are some games you can touch and feel.

5. Card Games (Bridge, Hearts, and Rummey)

Card games like Bridge, Hearts, and Rummy encourage strategic planning, memory, and mathematical skills. For example, Bridge requires significant collaboration and strategic thinking.

Hearts involves memory and probability skills, and Rummy helps improve pattern recognition and strategic planning.

As a bonus, all of these games have a social component. Card nights are a great reason to get together with friends.

6. Sudoku

woman solving sudoku puzzles in a book with selective focus on the book.

This number-placement puzzle significantly enhances logical thinking and concentration. The challenge of filling in the grid correctly without repeating numbers in any row, column, or square requires focus and mental agility.

The portable books fit easily in a purse or the glovebox of your car so that you can take these puzzles with you into waiting rooms, car rides, etc.

7. Jigsaw Puzzles

friends arranging jigsaw pieces on table while enjoying coffee

While they’re not technically a game, puzzles can stimulate your brain just as much.

Completing jigsaw puzzles involves distinguishing among different shapes and colors and visualizing where pieces fit, which enhances visual-spatial reasoning and attention to detail.

Physical games

Playing sports helps keep your brain sharp by increasing blood flow to your brain, which can make you think clearer and remember better. Sports also help your brain stay flexible so you can learn and remember things more easily.

Plus, they’re great for reducing stress and boosting your mood.

8. Pickleball

Pickleball - Mixed Doubles Action of Colorful Court

Pickleball has skyrocketed in popularity recently, and for good reason. While many people enjoy the game’s excitement and physical component, it provides a mental boost, too.

The physical activity in pickleball can also help improve mental alertness, coordination, and strategic thinking.

9. Table Tennis (Ping Pong)

Happy active mature man and a woman playing table tennis

Playing table tennis helps enhance motor skills, quick reactions, and strategic planning. It also improves hand-eye coordination and mental alertness, as players must quickly assess and respond to their opponent’s actions.

Games you can play with your kids or grandkids

Looking for something to do with your kids or grandkids that isn’t watching cartoons?

Here are some games that are easy enough to be competitive for both of you, while also engaging your problem-solving skills.

10. Uno

Uno helps with color and number recognition, and it requires players to use strategic thinking regarding when to play certain cards, enhancing decision-making skills and adaptability to changing situations.

11. Ticket to Ride

This game involves strategic planning, problem-solving, and geographical knowledge. Players plan train routes across the map, which requires foresight and tactical management of resources (like train cars and destination tickets).

12. Memory Games

high angle view of senior man collecting jigsaw puzzle

Any game that involves memory (like matching pairs or recalling sequences) enhances short-term and working memory. These games help in improving concentration and focus, which are vital for daily tasks.

Add Fuel to Your Brain Games

While brain-training games and physical activities offer a fun and engaging way to keep your mind sharp, integrating a focused nutritional approach can significantly boost your cognitive health.

Our Dynamic Brain supplement provides a scientifically formulated blend of natural ingredients to support memory, focus, and mental clarity.*

Whether you’re strategizing your next move in chess, solving a complex Sudoku puzzle, or coordinating a game of pickleball, complementing your routine with Dynamic Brain can help enhance your cognitive functions and maintain your mental edge.*

Embrace a comprehensive brain health approach with stimulating games and the right nutritional support from Stonehenge Health.

Sources:
1. Al-Thaqib A, Al-Sultan F, Al-Zahrani A, et al. Brain training games enhance cognitive function in healthy subjects. Med Sci Monit Basic Res. 2018;24:63-69. doi:10.12659%2FMSMBR.909022

March 7, 2024March 7, 2024

Craving quality sleep? Eat this, not that.

mature woman stretching and waking up from bed

Do you ever lie awake at night, tossing and turning, without the faintest idea of why?

Stress and anxiety are well-known sleep disrupters, but did you know the food you eat can increase the stress hormones in your body and mind?

Foods can significantly influence your sleep quality due to their nutritional content and how they affect your body’s hormones and neurotransmitters. Some foods can promote relaxation and help you fall asleep more easily, while others can disrupt sleep patterns.

Let’s take a closer look at some foods that are known to increase your chances of a good night’s sleep.

8 Foods that help you sleep

Girl holds a paper plate with healthy food sitting on the floor. Home delivery food. Healthy eating concept.

Stock up on these eight types of food—most of which are both healthy and delicious—and incorporate them into your meal schedule if you’re looking to improve your sleep.

1. Almonds and walnuts: These nuts contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, and magnesium, which may improve sleep quality by reducing inflammation and stress levels.

2. Turkey and chicken: High in tryptophan, an amino acid that increases the production of serotonin, which is your body’s natural “feel-good” chemical that helps regulate mood, anxiety, and happiness. The tryptophan is then converted to melatonin in the brain. Tryptophan is the reason you feel so sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner.

3. Cherries and cherry juice: Another one of the few natural food sources of melatonin, which can help regulate sleep cycles.

4. Fatty fish (salmon, trout, mackerel): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which have been shown to increase serotonin production, supporting a healthy sleep cycle.

5. Milk and dairy products: Many of these foods contain tryptophan and calcium. Calcium helps the brain use the tryptophan to manufacture melatonin.

6. Kiwi: High in antioxidants and serotonin, which may help improve sleep onset, duration, and quality. Plus, they’re delicious and make a great healthy dessert.

7. Bananas: Provide magnesium and potassium, which help relax muscles and nerves, and contain tryptophan.

8. Oats: A source of melatonin and complex carbohydrates, which can help more tryptophan get into the brain.

Do you notice anything in common among these foods? Tryptophan and melatonin are your best friends when you’re trying to fall asleep.

5 Foods that may disrupt sleep

Happy older woman drinking a mug of coffee on her couch

On the other hand, the food you eat can also affect your ability to fall and stay asleep. Here are five foods you should avoid.

1. Caffeinated foods and beverages (coffee, tea, chocolate): No surprise here—caffeine can block sleep-inducing chemicals in the brain and increase adrenaline production. Your body needs roughly 10-12 hours to rid itself of the effects of caffeine fully, so plan accordingly.

2. Spicy foods: These can cause heartburn or indigestion, making it harder to fall asleep. There are few things worse than a poor night’s sleep on top of stomach pain and indigestion.

3. High-fat and fried foods: Digesting these can be hard on the body and take longer to digest, potentially leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep.

4. High-sugar foods and heavy meals: Eating big or sugary meals too close to bedtime can lead to spikes in blood sugar, potentially causing wakefulness at night.

5. Alcohol: While it may help you fall asleep faster, alcohol reduces REM sleep, which is considered the most restorative phase of sleep. In other words, you’ll get a lot less value out of your sleep with alcohol in your system.

Unfortunately, there’s yet another way food can disturb your sleep!

When is mealtime?

Middle age woman looking smartwatch standing at home

The timing of your meal can also affect your sleep.

It’s not just the types of foods you eat that can negatively affect your sleep quality and overall health—the timing of when you eat can also be a factor.

If you’re looking for better sleep, here are two eating habits you should avoid:

1. Eating late at night

Hungry mature man near open fridge in kitchen at night

Eating late at night can shift your internal clock and disrupt the natural circadian rhythm (your internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle every 24 hours), making it harder to fall asleep at your usual time.

One reason is that late-night eating can affect the release of hormones like insulin and cortisol, which can influence one’s sleep-wake cycle.

Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can lead to increased urination during the night, disrupting sleep. Conversely, low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) can cause wakefulness or nightmares, also disrupting sleep.

Cortisol is your body’s main stress hormone; increasing these levels before bedtime can increase stress.

Additionally, eating close to bedtime can lead to discomfort and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as lying down soon after eating can cause stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. GERD is a more severe form of heartburn.

2. Eating large meals before bed

woman overeating pizza sitting in bed late at night before bedtime unhealthy eating, lifestyle concept

Large or supersized meals can overload your digestive system, making it hard for you to fall asleep or causing you to wake up during the night.

And, of course, if those foods are heavy or rich, they may cause bloating, gas, and discomfort, disrupting your sleep.

Set yourself up for optimal sleep

There are a few things you can do via your nutrition to increase your chances for a good night’s sleep.

First, aim to have your dinner at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Allowing space between your meal and bedtime gives enough time for digestion to occur and helps avoid discomfort or indigestion.

If you get a little hungry after dinner, opt for a light snack that won’t spike your blood sugar or cause digestion issues. Foods containing tryptophan, magnesium, or calcium (see the list above!) can promote sleep.

Eating your meals and snacks at consistent times every day can help regulate your body’s internal clock, improving your sleep cycle and overall health.

These actions all have one thing in common—they aim to reduce the stress inside your body.

And there’s another thing you can do to help reduce stress…

Dynamic Mushrooms from Stonehenge Health is a powerful nootropic formulation designed to help support healthy cognitive function while also helping to support healthy stress response.*

With a sophisticated blend of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Shiitake, and Maitake, Dynamic Mushrooms is your new secret weapon for taking control of your sleep.*

Ready to explore the magical world of mushrooms?

January 25, 2024January 25, 2024

The Second Act: Top 6 Tips for Pursuing Your Passions After Retirement

senior female potter working on pottery wheel while sitting in her workshop

Retirement provides a precious chance to delve into your interests, experiment with novel hobbies, and experience the world without the burden of work. It signifies a shift towards seeking life satisfaction rather than simply fulfilling work-related responsibilities. People are retiring with youthful zest, and their professional background enriches them with various insights to share. They now have the liberty to pursue their passions with gusto and make the most of their later years.

My friend Sharon is a great example.

After years of toiling away as an auditor for the IRS, Sharon decided it was time for a career change – and she had just the right idea. She had always been passionate about animals, so when the opportunity to retire early arose, Sue knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life: become a dog rescuer.

Sharon gets out to the shelters and dog pounds most days, looking for adoptable dogs who need homes or nursing little friends back into good health before finding them loving new families. It’s hard work but incredibly rewarding, something she hadn’t experienced in her desk job at the IRS. Sharon now spends much of her time nursing sick or injured pups back to health before finding new homes through adoption centers or private owners.

The joy this gave her is immeasurable; not only does Sharon get to do what she loves, but seeing her fur babies go from sad and scared strays into loving members of someone’s family makes every long day worthwhile. And best of all? There were no grumpier taxpayers or grueling office days.

Retirement is often considered one of life’s most precious gifts. So, now the question is: How can you discover your “Second Act”?

1. Rediscovering Passions

senior Couple singing and playing acoustic guitar together.

After a lifetime of working, raising kids, and caring for others, losing sight of your passion is easy. Retirement offers the opportunity to rediscover hobbies and interests sidelined earlier in life. Whether painting, writing, reading, playing music, or gardening, nurturing these passions is essential. Engaging in activities that bring joy and satisfaction can help boost mental health, prevent cognitive decline, and add purpose to life.

2. Starting a Side Business

female freelancer calling client using mobile working on portable computer.

Retirement doesn’t mean cutting off all income sources. Many older folks have discovered the joys of starting a side business doing something they love. From baking to crafting, teaching to consulting, the possibilities are endless. Not only does it provide an additional source of income, but it also satisfies the need for social interaction and productivity. Starting a second act doesn’t require a huge investment; it’s about leveraging skills and experiences to offer something valuable to others.

3. Volunteering

Group of middle age volunteers working at charity center. Woman smiling happy and holding paper bag with food to donate.

Retirees have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be used in the community. Volunteering in a cause that aligns with personal values can bring fulfillment and joy. From mentoring young adults to serving meals at a homeless shelter, there are plenty of ways to give back. Volunteering helps others and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.

4. Traveling and Cultural Immersion

Happy older couple having fun walking outdoors in city. Retired people enjoying a sightseeing walk on street in spring.

Retirement is also the ideal time to indulge in travel and cultural immersion. After a lifetime of work and responsibilities, it’s time to explore the world and experience new adventures. It doesn’t have to be a luxurious or expensive trip; it can be a road trip to national parks or a cultural exchange program in a foreign country. Traveling provides an opportunity to learn about new cultures, meet new people, and gain a fresh perspective.

5. Embracing Mindfulness

Mature woman meditating with her eyes closed and her hands in prayer position. Black woman with dreadlocks practicing yoga in a studio. Happy middle-aged woman maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Retirement offers a chance to slow down and savor the moments that matter. It’s a time to reflect on life and practice mindfulness. Mindfulness means being present in the moment, appreciating the simple things in life, and finding joy in the ordinary. It could be as simple as enjoying coffee in the morning, taking a leisurely stroll in the park, or spending time with loved ones. Mindfulness can reduce stress, improve mental health, and add meaning to your life.

It’s always possible to find a purpose and positively impact the world. Retirement can be the beginning of a new journey full of adventure, joy, and contentment. So go ahead and explore the possibilities of your second act after retirement.

Empower Your Second Act

During your well-deserved retirement, confidence in your memory and cognitive abilities allows you to embrace any endeavor with gusto.

Stonehenge Health® Dynamic Brain is a meticulously crafted formula featuring an impressive blend of 40 unique ingredients.* Each one has been carefully selected, from Bacopa Extract to Huperzine A, DHA, Choline, and essential vitamins and minerals to support your brain health effectively. *

By incorporating Dynamic Brain into your daily routine, you may unlock the true potential of your cognitive abilities. * Make the most of your retirement by nurturing your mind with Dynamic Brain and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead!

October 23, 2023

Exploring the Cognitive Wonders of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG): A Brain-Boosting Probiotic

Support healthy of the brain concept design.

When we think of probiotics, our minds often jump to gut health, but this story has a remarkable twist.

Did you ever imagine that some probiotics could positively impact your brain health?

Among these brain-boosting probiotics, one stands out in the crowd: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, or simply LGG.

LGG, a member of the Lactobacillus family, debuted in 1983, thanks to the groundbreaking work of two researchers, Dr. Sherwood Gorbach and Dr. Barry Goldin. The “GG” in its name? That’s an homage to their initials.

This little wonder has earned its stripes for conquering the challenging terrain of the gastrointestinal tract, becoming a colonizer of the gut microbiome since it was isolated from a healthy human being. In fact, it holds the title of being the most researched strain within the Lactobacillus family worldwide.

Another thing that truly stands out about LGG beyond its remarkable ability to nurture gut health – is evidence that its influence extends up to the brain.

The Cognitive Potential of LGG

middle age man smiling pointing to head with one finger, great idea or thought, good memory

Exciting research presented at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society of Nutrition, revealed that LGG could potentially enhance cognitive performance and memory, particularly in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical study involved 169 participants aged 52 to 75, with and without MCI. The research found that people with MCI had a higher relative abundance of microbes in the genus Prevotella than those without cognitive impairment. ¹

Taking LGG daily for three months led to a reduction in Prevotella abundance and an improvement in cognitive scores. “The implications of this finding are exciting, suggesting that modifying the gut microbiome through probiotics might be a strategy to enhance cognitive performance, particularly for those with MCI,” according to Mashael Aljumaah, a microbiology candidate at the University of North Carolina. ¹

Curious about the fascinating connection between the microbes in your gut and your cognitive abilities? Let’s delve into the intriguing realm of the Gut-Brain Axis to unravel this mystery.

The Gut-Brain Axis

The Gut-Brain Axis represents a dynamic, two-way communication system that links the gastrointestinal tract and the brain in an intricate, ongoing dialogue. This bi-directional connection facilitates constant interaction between the gut and the brain, allowing each to impact the other’s well-being significantly.

The complexity of the Gut-Brain Axis involves an array of pathways, including the immune system, the nervous system, and the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. And here’s where the gut microbiome, with its vibrant and diverse community of microbes, takes center stage. When the composition of the gut microbiota is harmonious and balanced, it can positively influence your mood, behavior, and cognitive function. In other words, a healthy gut microbiome contributes to a healthier brain and mental well-being.²

The intricate dance between your gut and brain health is a profound one. But it doesn’t stop there—stress and negative emotions can also impact your gut health, reinforcing their symbiotic relationship.

The potential of LGG to support your gut and brain health is a testament to the intricate and fascinating connection between these two vital aspects of your overall well-being.*

An Easy Way to Take LGG Every Day

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Biotics supplement

Unlocking the potential benefits of LGG is easier than you might think. If you want to introduce this multi-benefit probiotic into your daily routine, why not explore it through a premium probiotic like Dynamic Biotics by Stonehenge Health?

Dynamic Biotics play a crucial role in fortifying your beneficial gut microflora, fostering a healthier microbiome. Boasting an impressive lineup of 16 diverse strains and 55 billion CFUs, including the brain-boosting LGG, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive solution to supplement their gut and overall well-being.

Sources:
1 Daniells, S. (2023). LGG clinical study. | nutraingredients-usa.com/Article/2023/07/24/probiotic-lgg-may-slow-age-related-cognitive-decline
2. John F. Cryan, et al. “The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis“ Physiological Reviews 2019 99:4, 1877-2013 | journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physrev.00018.2018

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

August 22, 2023August 22, 2023

Adventures in Forgetfulness: 5 Common “Senior Moments” & What You Can Do About Them

senior man trying to combine puzzle, having memory problems, cognitive impairment

What does it mean to have a senior moment?

As we journey through life, we sometimes have these mental hiccups, often called senior moments – those split-second memory lapses that catch us off guard. They pop up more often as we get older, bringing along a mix of chuckles, sighs, and more than a touch of worry.

The impact of these moments can occasionally lead to cringe-worthy scenarios, especially for those of us who are still actively engaged in the working world. After all, preserving our credibility matters, and we certainly don’t want the younger generation mistakenly assuming our sharpness is dulling.

It’s a topic that we of a certain age tend to discuss. In fact, the other day, I gathered with my buddies for a cozy chat about their very own ‘senior moment’ sagas. In the process, we collectively came up with the top “dreaded senior moments.”

Read on to discover a selection of anecdotes that feel uncannily relatable.

The Words Are Right There…

Senior business woman received applause from the audience while making speech in corporate seminar event with light effect. Selective focus.

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking on its own, but when your mind falters, and a seemingly simple word evades you mid-sentence, it’s a memory loss moment that can turn cheeks beet-red.

Patricia, a seasoned executive at 57, is celebrated for her eloquence and mastery over her field.

“I can face a firing squad of questions, but the thought of key terms slipping away mid-meeting? Terrifying!” Patricia explained, her voice tinged with mock horror.

The more you focus on trying to remember, the further the words slip away, leading to awkward pauses and a feeling of vulnerability.

Why Am I Standing Here?

Elderly mature tourist man walking along street, confused looking at map

Have you ever entered a room with a clear purpose, only to encounter a mental blank the moment you cross the threshold? It’s like stepping into a maze without a map. That fleeting moment of confusion can leave you feeling momentarily adrift.

Meet George, a lively 70-year-old accountant on the brink of retirement. Experiencing this in front of colleagues at the firm is downright embarrassing for him.

“You’d think I’d have a reason for being in the conference room, right?” he chuckles, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. “Not knowing why I’m somewhere is just the worst.” It’s a blend of frustration and confusion, a gentle reminder of the whimsical ways our minds can occasionally trip us up.

Sorry, I Can’t Recall Your Name.

Sad young adult woman grown up daughter or grandkid sitting on sofa hugging desperate, grieving, frustrated elderly mom or grandma having problems with mental health

Imagine this scenario: you’re at a gathering, and a familiar face catches your eye across the room. Your heart sinks as you draw a blank on their name, even though you’ve known them for years. Your mind races, scrambling to retrieve the information.

Martha, who’s friendly with everyone and typically has everyone’s name at her fingertips, shared a similar experience. She recounted the last time she ran into her longtime neighbor. “I was all set to say hello, and poof, the name vanished,” Martha laughed. It’s as if the name had evaporated into thin air, leaving her grappling with an odd sense of unease.

Racing to the Wedding

Confused Senior Man With Looking At Wall Calendar

A friend’s birthday party, a family gathering, a doctor’s appointment, or an anniversary – you’ve diligently marked them on your calendar and set reminders. Yet somehow, the event manages to slip your mind until it’s nearly too late.

Richard, a dedicated family man who orchestrates events with meticulous care, recounted a time when he completed blanked on his cousin’s daughter’s wedding. “It’s as if the universe decided to play a little trick on me,” he sighed, then added, “You know, all that careful planning, and my brain just had a glitch.”

Fortunately, it all rushed back to him when he saw his wife in an evening gown, ready to go. “Thank goodness I didn’t miss the vows.” he laughed. The realization struck like an unexpected jolt, leaving him flustered and apologetic. It’s a memory lapse that humbly reminds us of our own human fallibility.

The Elusive Passwords + Pins

Frustrated tired senior man touching head at laptop

“I can pinpoint a needle in a haystack, but my debit card’s pin? Vanished!” Emily quipped, recalling the time she held up a line at the grocery store. “Nothing says ‘performance anxiety’ like a blank mind and impatient shoppers.”

In today’s digital age, passwords are the keys to our virtual lives. Yet, it’s astonishing how often we find ourselves staring at a login screen, unable to recall the combination of characters that grant us access. The frustration amplifies as we attempt various permutations, hoping that muscle memory will kick in and unlock the forgotten secret.

Top 8 Ways To Deal With Senior Moments

Senior woman with grey hair standing over white background clueless and confused expression with arms and hands raised. doubt concept.

Senior Moments may be normal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do something about them.

1. Stay Physically Active

Smiling senior couple jogging in the park

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can help improve memory and cognitive function.

2. Mindful Nutrition

Health in your brain. Fresh vegetables in woman head symbolizing health nutrition on gray background, panorama, copy space

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutrients, including B vitamins, that can promote brain health. Foods like fish, nuts, berries, and leafy greens have been linked to cognitive benefits.

3. Mental Stimulation

Hands of two senior women doing puzzles. socializing with friends at home.

Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, learning a new skill, or even playing musical instruments. Mental stimulation helps keep your mind sharp and can potentially reduce memory lapses.

4. Adequate Sleep

Old man sleeping in bed in the morning, recovery time and healthy sleep

Prioritize quality sleep, as it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support optimal cognitive function.

5. Stay Social

Senior Group Friends Exercise Relax Concept

Interacting with friends and family and participating in group activities stimulates the brain.

6. Hydration

water from jug pouring into glass on wooden table outdoors

Dehydration can negatively impact brain function. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to maintain optimal cognitive performance.

7. Stay Curious

art school, creativity and people concept - happy senior woman artist with easel and pencil drawing picture at studio

Maintain a curious mindset by exploring new hobbies, learning, and staying open to new experiences. Curiosity keeps your brain engaged and active.

8. Brain-Supporting Supplements

dynamic brain supplement on with a chess set and books in background

Certain supplements are designed with specific functional ingredients and combinations of vitamins and minerals to support brain health.

One such brain health supplement is Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Brain™, which offers a comprehensive blend of 40 brain health ingredients. These include multivitamins, including the essential B vitamins, Huperzine A, Bacopa Extract, DHA, Phosphatidylserine, and L-Tyrosine. By incorporating a daily dose of Dynamic Brain, you can effectively support your brain health, optimize cognitive function, and help maintain your precious memories.*

Remember that occasional memory lapses are a natural part of aging. Still, these proactive steps can help mitigate their impact and keep your mind sharp and engaged as you navigate through life’s journey. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant lifestyle changes.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.