Why Uridine Can Boost Cognition
If you’re familiar with nootropics, you probably know what a useful tool they can be for working with our neurotransmitters. Learning to use these tools to boost cognition, memory, and focus is of interest to those intrigued by nootropics, herbs, and supplements.
Acetylcholine: Cognitive Function Boost
Our bodies produce a powerful neurotransmitter called acetylcholine to assist the nervous system. Acetylcholine enhances learning and memory, aiding clarity and sharpness. It’s concentrated in brain regions associated with cognition. Acetylcholine synthesis depends on acetyl coenzyme A and choline, vital compounds found naturally within the body’s biochemical processes. Choline, sourced from various foods, is essential for acetylcholine production, yet dietary intake may not always meet the body’s demands.
When your levels of choline are low, your levels of acetylcholine become low, too. Low acetylcholine levels lead to cognitive issues, from learning problems to severe neurodegenerative diseases in the most extreme cases. Choline supplements help ensure adequate acetylcholine production. Popular “cholinergics” can replenish choline stores and support neurotransmitter function.
Uridine Monophosphate: Choline Synthesis Booster
Uridine Monophosphate, a small nucleotide with a big job, is a lesser-known but potent cholinergic. It helps to enhance the building of choline within the body. It plays a complicated role in the synthesis of choline which leads to a further synthesis for a type of choline called phosphocholine.
Neurons can directly use the phosphocholine to find choline from which they can then synthesize much needed acetylcholine. Uridine, apart from boosting the body’s choline supply for acetylcholine synthesis, participates in synthesizing phospholipids. Phospholipids are part of each cell’s membrane and help keep a healthy barrier between what should be in the cell versus what should not.
With so many ways that the body uses Uridine, it’s surprising to learn that Uridine is available to us mostly only as infants through human breast milk. After infancy, the liver begins to make Uridine. Some researchers believe that Uridine can be found in some types of vegetables (cruciferous ones like kale, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower). Some types of fermented beer contain trace amounts of Uridine as well.
By boosting the choline synthesis pathways and helping keep the cell membranes intact and functioning well.
Also read our blog on 5 Easy Ways To Get More Fiber In Your Body
