Short Term memory tip: Among the different forms of memory known to us, there is short term memory that is distinct from long term memory and also sensory memory. Short term memory is that type of memory that allows us to recall things from just a few seconds ago, or even from as long as a minute back, and it is also normal for short term memory to allow storage of just four or five objects, though this number may go up depending on what is known as ‘chunking’. Thus, with chunking, when you see a group of letters ordered in rows rather in scrambled form, it allows us to remember those groups of letters a lot longer than in the case of merely scrambled letters.

Figuring Out the Causes of Short Term Memory Loss

Some people easily dismiss old age as one of the simplest causes of short term memory loss and say that it is but natural to start forgetting things as you age. However, while this may be true, there are several other causes of short term memory loss that should not be ignored as they could be signaling to more complex problems.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Anyone who has lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s understands that this cause of short term memory loss is something not to be taken fleetingly. Coupled with dementia, this disease is the subject of a lot of research and although no real cure has been found for it, nipping it in the bud or at least diagnosing it correctly in the preliminary stages is crucial.

Blood Sugar

People that starve themselves or don’t eat for a long time and then have a big meal often have very instable blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar can lead the brain to get sleepy and groggy and hence become one of the causes of short term memory loss. This is why doctors often recommend that patients who want to improve their memory have six small meals in a day as opposed to three large ones so as to keep blood sugar levels at bay.

Hormonal Havoc

Memory Loss Tip: How to Preserve Memory. Eating a healthy diet which is low in saturated fat and includes a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables and fish can be helpful in maintaining your memory. Getting plenty of sleep and exercise can also be a help for memory loss. Smoking can decrease you ability to remember information due to reducing the supply of oxygen for your brain. You need to stimulate your brain with activities such as reading, learning new things, doing crossword puzzles, playing mind stimulating games and other activities.

This is another cause of short term memory loss as menopause sets in and estrogen levels start to dwindle. Although hormone replacement therapies and other such treatments and preventions have become common now, this is certainly a factor worth looking into when figuring out memory loss.

Depression and Drinking

People who are depressed and especially those who are taking medication often cannot remember things clearly because of the side effects of the drugs. Apart from medical drugs, recreational drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption can also be amongst the causes of short term memory loss.

Natural Treatments

Once your doctor has determined the cause or causes of short term memory loss for your specific case, he may recommend drugs, mental exercises, a more healthy lifestyle or some natural, herbal supplements,. Although the results have not been very conclusive, some studies have shown that ginkgo biloba and oxidants to help prevent brain cell damage and to restore mental memory function. Some like to try out the herbal supplements, some prefer a more pharmaceutical approach whereas some just like the old fashioned route of healthy eating and exercise. Ask your doctor which is best for your case.