Having trouble remembering where you left your cell phone or the name of your friend's new beau? Then you may want to ask yourself if you're getting enough magnesium. This essential mineral found in dark leafy greens, like Swiss chard, as well as quinoa, almonds, cashews, beans, and dairy products, has been shown in studies to improve both learning abilities and short- and long-term memory. This mineral strengthens and "stimulates changes in synapses, the junctions between neurons that are important in transmitting nerve signals." This means a diet containing sufficient amounts of magnesium could help you remember to bring your lunch to work (instead of forgetting it at home in the fridge). A woman needs about 300 milligrams of magnesium a day, so check your diet to make sure you're getting your fill.

Now learn another way to improve when you read more.

Another way to improve your memory and your capacity to learn is to chill out after you've challenged your brain. After you take a class or sit through a meeting where lots of information is thrown at you, take a break. Relaxing with a cup of coffee, an easy book, or some music allows your brain the chance to rest and tune out so it can focus on retaining the info it just learned.

Now which mineral helps your memory? Take a little break for the details to sink in.