EXPLORING COGNITIVE TRAILS: A REVIEW ON THE BENEFITS OF SUPPLEMENTATION ON COGNITION AND MENTAL PERFORMANCE

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.159432409013

• Palavras-chave: Cognitive Performance; Supplements; Memory; Attention.

• Keywords: Cognitive Performance; Supplements; Memory; Attention.

• Abstract:

  Introduction: Optimizing cognitive function through supplementation has gained prominence in a series of studies due to its benefits on brain function. Objective: The present study aims to construct a bibliographical review about the supplementation of creatine, vitamin B12, iron, collagen, medium chain triglycerides (MCT), omega-3, Bacopa Monnieri and magnesium l-threonate and its effects on cognitive aspects. Methodology: 28 articles were selected in a search carried out in the databases PubMed, Undergraduate Academic Repository (RAG) – PUC GOIÁS and Digital Library of Monographs of ``Universidade Federal do Pará``, using the descriptors “cognition”, “memory” and “supplements” among the years 2016 to 2023 in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Results: The studies analyzed indicate strong effectiveness in supplementing vitamin B12, iron and fatty acids in attention, while collagen peptides, Bacopa and creatine offered better results for memory, the latter mainly in long-term memory. Magnesium l-threonate, in turn, promoted significant improvements in all categories of cognition tests analyzed, with greater emphasis on elderly patients. As for MCT, data indicate a significant increase in young people, with a minimum time of 2-3 weeks. Conclusion: The supplements analyzed showed certain levels of benefits in cognitive improvement but factors such as age, dose, time of use, previous health status, adverse effects and intended objectives need to be taken into consideration for a more satisfactory result.