The Benefits of Souvenaid – Food for Thought

You’ve most likely heard the saying, “food for thought”. But in Souvenaid’s case, it’s literally true! Get to know how this medical drink nutritionally supports memory function in early Alzheimer’s disease.

What is Souvenaid?

Souvenaid is a medical drink which provides the nutritional building blocks for growth of brain connections. These nutrients include:

• EPA/DHA - polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish oil
• B group vitamins and antioxidant co-factors
• Uridine monophosphate
• Choline and phospholipids

The nutrients in Souvenaid have been extensively researched to show that they slow memory and cognitive decline by 60% in those with early stage Alzheimer’s disease (also known as mild cognitive impairment). 

How might it support Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating brain condition under the umbrella term of Dementia which affects more than 1.5 million Australians. It disrupts the brain’s neurons and may result in impaired thinking, memory and behaviour. 

There are a number of factors that may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease such as ageing, genetics, inflammation and other chronic diseases.

Research shows us that increasing nutrient intake helps to support the brain and may slow memory decline. This can be hard for older people as the amount of nutrition needed to help is more than what is possible through food alone. Ensuring a healthy diet and supplementing with additional nutrients may make a difference for those living with Alzheimer’s disease.

How the brain works

The brain receives sensory input, integrates new and stored information, makes thoughts and decisions and is responsible for body movement, balance and coordination. 

• The brain consists of approximately 100 billion neurons. A neuron, or nerve cell, is an electrically excitable cell which is able to communicate with other cells.
• In Alzheimer’s disease, the communications between neurons are disrupted which results in loss of function and therefore decline in memory, thoughts and change in behaviour.

Nourishing The Mind

It’s important for those with Alzheimers’ disease to eat nutrient dense foods. In fact, nutrient deficiencies are common in those suffering with Alzheimer's disease, so it’s important to nourish the mind where possible.

Nutrient deficiency

Those with Alzheimer’s disease may be at risk of malnutrition and have a number of nutrient deficiencies particularly B-group vitamins, vitamin D, macronutrients, calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin K, vitamin A, fibre, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Research has shown that it’s important to ensure those with Alzheimer’s disease are eating enough to meet their nutritional needs and there are a number of foods that may support brain health. 

Food for the brain

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) make-up 30-35% of the brain and therefore are essential for brain function. Fatty acids are also important for lowering inflammation in the body which is a risk factor associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Uridine is a naturally occurring nucleic acid which is involved in creating new neurons and protecting the current neurons within the brain. Research shows us that uridine levels are lower in those with Alzheimer’s disease compared to healthy individuals.
• Phospholipids are types of fat molecules which form the cell membranes in the brain.
• B group vitamins and antioxidants are important nutrients in a healthy diet and research has shown that it may slow progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Choline is important for neurotransmitters (the substances that help neurons communicate).
• Uridine monophosphate works in synergy with choline, DHA and other phospholipids.

Souvenaid is a medical nutrition drink that contains Fortasyn Connect - a unique blend of ingredients including omega-3 fatty acids, uridine monophosphate, choline, phospholipids, B vitamins and antioxidants. Research has shown that Souvenaid can be effective in early Alzheimer’s disease when taken daily for 3 years. 

How to use Souvenaid

Souvenaid is available as a powder which can be added to water or as an easy-to-take liquid consumed once a day as a supplement to a healthy diet. As a medical drink, it should be used under the advice of a healthcare professional.

A Healthy Diet

It’s important to note that Souvenaid is intended to be taken in addition to a healthy, balanced diet which includes:

1. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables
2. Fish for essential fatty acids
3. Eggs for choline
4. Nuts, seeds and whole grains for B vitamins and antioxidants
5. Protein rich foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs
6. Extra virgin olive oil for its anti-inflammatory benefits

Reviewed by Healthylife health experts September 2023