The Quick Take on Quick Fixes
Dear Caregivers,
It seems like in our modern age many people are yearning for a “quick fix.” There are same-day delivery of goods, instant access to media via the internet, and a host of health products that promise a transformation of body and mind without much effort.
This certainly applies to the growing trend of brain supplements. An AARP study reveals that nearly 20% of adults use some sort of vitamin or supplements to try to enhance their memory, focus, and attention. The global market for such products was estimated to be worth over $500 billion in 2025 and is growing rapidly.
But do they work? The “quick” answer is, in fact, “no”—at least for average people who don’t have any pre-existing conditions. According to the authors of a recent scientific paper entitled “Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging,” using supplements is “no panacea,” and in fact the best approach for brain health is a “balanced and nutritious diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients” along with exercise and good night’s sleep. Boring, I know, but that’s what the science says.
Still, if you are considering using supplements, please follow these guidelines:
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR: Bring whatever supplements you are considering to your doctor and ask for their opinion on whether they might be helpful. Most important, make sure that your doctor says that the supplements won’t negatively interact with any of the current medications you or your loved one is currently taking.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK: There is very little regulation or evaluation of the claims made by the sellers of these products. Check online to make sure you are purchasing from a company that is reputable, that there are no pending complaints against it, and that the product actually contains what the advertising and promotion claim.
FORTIFY YOUR MIND WITH SKEPTICISM: Don’t take any of a company’s promotions at face value, but instead check with consumer comments and opinions from other users on social media, and don’t be surprised if the supplements don’t have any effect at all.
And remember, if a supplement seller’s claims seem too good to be true, your instincts are probably correct.
Here is some more resources on evaluating brain supplements:
Introduction to Brain Health Supplements:
Before you consider taking a vitamin supplement or a brain-boosting product, you should consider there are three important things: using evidence-based medicine, weighing the benefits vs. risks, and what experts say about the supplement. Here’s an introduction.
Brain Supplements:
Many commonly used supplements claim to have benefits for the brain. Here is what is often claimed, what the science actually shows, and how to think about using these products wisely.
Popular Brain Boosters:
Supplements known as “brain boosters” are often marketed as memory or brain enhancers. While the claims may sound compelling, current scientific evidence does not support their routine use for brain health or Alzheimer’s disease. Here’s an overview.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“The law as written is an invitation to sell snake oil. Find something that no one knows how to treat and tell people that you can treat it."
— Derek Lowe
