Synergistic Application of Zinc and Vitamin C to Support Memory and Attention and to Decrease the Risk of Developing Nervous System Diseases

Provision of the body with zinc and vitamin C is important for CNS functioning. Zinc ions take part in neurotransmission (transmission of signals from acetylcholine, catecholamine, serotonin, and prostaglandin receptors) and in ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation. Zinc deficiency is associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease and depression. Zinc supplementation (10–30 mg/day) improves neurological recovery in patients with stroke and closed craniocerebral injury and also improves measures of attention; it decreases hyperactivity in children. Vitamin C is a synergist of zinc which supports the antioxidant resources of the brain, synaptic activity, and detoxification. Vitamin C supplements at a dose of 130–500 mg/day are recommended for the prophylaxis of dementia and neurodegenerative pathology.