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Article [2] Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease, a degenerative brain disease, is increasing in incidence rapidly in our country. There are many theories as to what causes it, but the following are some factors that are associated with higher risk for developing AD (Alzheimer’s Disease). A major factor may be the "aging" process, since this disease occurs more with advanced age. Premature aging is associated with oxidative stress, with free radical damage. Some things that increase free radicals and oxidative stress are exposure to chemicals, ionizing radiation, emotional stress, high fat diet, trauma, and infections. Stress also results in high cortisol levels which are toxic to brain cells. A report in the Official Journal of the American Academy of Neurology showed a high correlation between exposure to electromagnetic fields and development of AD. Many studies show consumption of aluminum to be associated with increased risk of AD. Aluminum generates free radicals and is found in high concentration in brains of people with AD. Blood homocysteine, related to cardiovascular disease, is now associated with risk of AD and cerebral vascular disease. High homocysteine can be caused by low levels of folic acid, Vit B-12 and Vit B-6. Inflammation is a major factor in AD. Increased inflammatory cells surrounding the neurons create free radicals and death of neurons. People who have poor phase 2 detoxification in the liver are at higher risk, especially if they take acetaminophen (Tylenol), because detoxification of aceteminophen depletes glutathione, and important brain antioxidant. Eating meats and animal fat provides large amounts of AA (arochidonic acid), a fatty acid which increases inflammation and is correlated with AD Alzheimer’s Disease is characterized by decreased energy production in the mitochondria of the cells. This also causes increased free radicals which in turn damage mitochondria, resulting in further loss of energy production. People whose relatives have AD at a young age may be at higher risk. In the future we may have available tests for the ApoE4 genotype which confers increased risk. PET scans of the brain can show decreased metabolism 10 years before the unset of disease. People with early AD who do not exercise their brains deteriorate more rapidly in mental function than people who continue to challenge themselves intellectually. A recent report in the Lancet, Apr 2000, showed that an extensive social network protects against dementia. What can we do to reduce risk of AD and to improve outcome when one has early signs of AD?
Supplements for antioxidant support and mitochondrial function: Antioxidants – Vitamins A, C, E, and the mitochondrial antioxidants Coenzyme Q-10, alpha-lipoic acid, n-acetyl cysteine, NADH, acetyl-l-carnitine. Grape seed extract containing OPC’s and reservatrol, and green tea containing catechins. Supplements to reduce inflammation include omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil (EPA and DHA), omega 6 fatty acids from Borage or Evening Primrose oil (GLA), and other nutrients that support these fatty acids such as Zinc, Magnesium, Niacin, and Vitamin B-6. The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibubrofen also have been associated with decreased risk for AD by reducing inflammation, but they also have their downsides, other toxic effects. Ginkgo biloba has been shown in controlled trials to improve mental function. Phosphatidyl serine has also been shown to improve brain function. Selegeline (by Rx) has also been helpful, since it may be acting as an antioxidant. Melatonin is a known brain antioxidant. Estrogen supplementation has also been associated with decreased risk for AD., but they also have their risks and are available by Rx. Some other herbs that may have brain protection but have not been studied as well as Ginkgo are Rosemary, Lemon balm, Centella, Polygonum, Ginseng, Withania, and Schizandra. Other Rx drugs have not had as much success as had been hoped for, considering their adverse effects. Intellectual hobbies, games, and work have been shown to increase the number of healthy neurons. Like with anything else, we use it or lose it. It is important to exercise our brains as well as the rest of our physical bodies as long as we live.
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