Some alternative practitioners recommend a related substance called choline (or lecithin, which contains 10% to 20% choline). Neither choline nor lecithin looks anywhere near as good as phosphatidylserine, and they can cause unpleasant side effects.

• L-acetyl carnitine. This form of the amino acid carnitine plays a key role in energy production in the body. It seems to help both Alzheimer’s patients and those with mild mental deterioration. The usual dose is 500 mg to 1,000 mg three times a day.

• Ginkgo biloba. Like vitamin E, ginkgo helps thin the blood, boosting circulation inside even the tiniest capillaries—including those that feed the brain. Ginkgo also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the brain against attack by free radicals.

Ginkgo has been found to be effective in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

*50/47/1*