Can Nutrition53 Supplements Enhance Mental Abilities?

Nutrition53 is a line of wellness supplements developed by former NFL player, Bill Romanowski. After a series of concussions that hampered his memory and mental abilities, Bill worked with a team of scientists, doctors and nutritionists to develop a series of products to build mental functions. According to their web site, Nutrition53 products help "enhance memory, enhance focus, and enhance mental recall, as well as boost energy levels to set you apart from the competition".

While this may sound good, Joan Salge Blake, Boston University clinical associate nutrition professor, cautions those who are looking for a quick fix to be careful.

"These are broad claims -- there isn't anything unique here," she said. "You can get these vitamins and minerals from food. In fact, food should be your first choice as it provides other benefits such as phytochemicals and fiber that help prevent certain diseases, such as heart disease."

Nutrition53 offers four products, including:

• Lean1: A nutritional shake designed to help you lose body fat and tone muscles. Its high-octane formula states that it boosts energy levels throughout the day with 20 to 30 grams of protein, 14 organic fruits and vegetables, five grams of fiber and heart-healthy phystosterols in every serving.

• The Nutrition53 Multi-Vitamin & Mineral: This includes 24 vitamins and minerals and advanced levels of B-vitamins. The web site claims these supplements have brain power-boosters, anti-aging nutrients, natural mood enhancers, immune system protection and bone and muscle strengtheners.

• Neuro1 Mental Performance Formula: This is designed to increase circulation and blood flow to the brain to help enhance memory, focus, mood, recall, mental and physical energy, anti-aging and long-term brain health.

• Sleep1: This natural sleep aid combines a mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and herbs to help you fall asleep faster, sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

But, in addition to not being necessary, these supplements can also be expensive. And, Salge Blake cautions, if a person wants to take a multi-vitamin and supplement, she should meet with a registered dietitian to make sure that it is appropriate based on their specific medical history.

"If a supplement is needed, there are less expensive varieties available," she said. Salge Blake also noted that people need to be careful about taking supplements with levels higher than 100 percent of the recommended daily value. "If a person is eating other fortified foods and or taking other supplements, some is good, but more may not be better," she said. "In fact, more can cause problems."

Looking for other ways to boost your mental abilities -- and possibly lose a few pounds at the same time? Try the Sudoku Diet!