Clinical Research Finds A Way To Reverse Memory Loss; Is A "Memory Cocktail" On The Way?

SAN DIEGO--(BW HealthWire)--Sept. 11, 1997--Recent clinical research has shed new light on treating the frightening mystery of memory loss -- a malady which likely affects more than half of the world's population over age 65.

The research hinges around a few naturally occurring ingredients -- primarily phosphatidylserine (PS) and gingko bilboa extract (GbE), which, when combined with other ingredients, form a potent "memory cocktail" -- that have actually reversed the cognition skills of subjects.

A study on PS led by the Memory Assessment Clinics (MAC) of Bethesda, Md., involved 149 subjects ranging in age from 50-75. Subjects were given PS at 300 mg. a day versus a placebo for 12 weeks. During the 12-week experiment, subjects improved in nearly every cognition category. According to the study, published in Neurology, subjects "rolled back the clock" by roughly 12 years in Name-Face Acquisition. In other words, subjects with a cognitive age of 64 were restored to a cognitive age of 52 after taking PS.

GbE is a widely known chemical which effects memory. But a remarkable new study funded by the Institut de Produits de Synthese et d'Extraction Naturelle in Paris found that patients more than doubled their ability to recall pictures only one hour after GbE supplementation.

Researchers believe that PS and GbE work by increasing blood flow throughout the body, and, in particular, boosting supplies of oxygen and glucose in the brain, which helps protect and maintain healthy brain tissue. This results in heightened alertness, a greater sense of well-being and sharper memory.

So far, one over-the-counter product has been developed based on the findings of these studies. The Memory Supplement, manufactured by Real Health Laboratories Inc., of San Diego, incorporates PH and GbE to make a potent "memory cocktail." According to the manufacturer, the Supplement has been developed according to the strict standards of the FDA in carefully calibrated dosages determined solely by clinical research.

Although PS and GbE have improved mild cases of Alzheimer's disease and it is believed that continued treatment may prevent further deterioration, Real Health warns that its Memory Supplement is not intended to relieve the effects of severe memory impairment or replace the need for proper medical care.

According to Real Health, The Memory Supplement is available in most pharmacies and drug stores as well as by mail order. "We should also be listed in the AARP Pharmacy Service soon," said William Bunten, co-founder of Real Health.

CONTACT: AARP Pharmacy Service, 800/456-7821

Real Health Labs Inc., 800/565-6656

Granite Communications, 800/653-5964