Our brain is the control center of all human function. Despite weighing only about three pounds, the human brain is composed of about 100 billion cells functioning together in a complex system that dwarfs any super computer. As we get older, there is a decline in mental function and efficiency related to the death of brain cells. Unfortunately, brain cells cannot be regenerated and this is part of the reason why memory and cognitive function decline.

Hundreds of clinical studies have been done and the results suggest that Vinpocetine may be useful in improving mental functioning and efficiency by specifically enhancing cerebral circulation, increasing the production of cerebral ATP, which is used to power the brain and all cells, increasing the brain’s utilization of oxygen and improving the brain’s utilization of glucose, its main fuel source. Even better is the fact that Vinpocetine is able to enhance the brain’s function without significantly affecting systemic blood pressure.

Aging is inevitable, but when we arm ourselves with the right nutrients, the degree by which we lose function can be significantly altered and perhaps prevented. Vinpocetine acts on the circulatory system and the brain’s metabolism to enhance cognitive function. It increases cerebral vasodilation, which improves the flow of blood to the brain. This increase in microcirculation to the brain allows for more oxygen and glucose uptake by brain and nerve cells. These actions nourish brain cells and prevent cell death from lack of oxygen and blood flow. Vinpocetine has also been shown to improve microcirculation in the eyes, which may help maintain healthy vision and assist with healing eye related disorders.

Very potent and versatile, ALA is a special antioxidant. It is one of the most powerful antiaging, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory available and is known as the “universal” antioxidant because it is both fat and water soluble.

Vegetarians, dieters, and athletes often lack sufficient amounts of this important nutrient in their diet and just about everyone can use the protection it may provide to fight environmental stresses. It works in both the fatty cell plasma membrane and the aqueous interior of the cell to protect the body against free radicals. It is, in fact, 100 times stronger than Vitamin E and Vitamin C combined, both of which are known for their excellent antioxidant qualities. ALA protects DNA, the mitochondria (the energy producing portion of the cell) and reduces cellular inflammation.

Dr. Perricone, noted dermatologist, highly recommends ALA in his Wrinkle-Free program. He states, “The importance of alpha lipoic acid—the metabolic antioxidant—is hard to overstate. As you know the higher the energy level of the cell, the more youthful you remain.”