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Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that usually develops in
elderly people. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by loss of
memory, inability to function normally, and loss of ability to take
care for one’s self. This disease has no known cause; however, it
involves the abnormal breakdown of an important neurotransmitter in
the brain called acetylcholine. Although some researchers believe
that Alzheimer's is linked to high concentrations of aluminum in the
brain, studies indicate that the two are not
related.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful
for Alzheimer's patients
Acetyl-L-carnitine
has been found in several clinical trials to delay the progress of
Alzheimer’s, improve memory, and increase overall performance in
some Alzheimer’s patients. However, to date there is no valid
evidence to support these findings.
Prelimary studies have
shown that antioxidant vitamins, including vitamin C or vitamin E, may
help to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Other research has
shown that Vitamin E may help to improve brain function in older
adults.
Some researchers believe a substance known as DMAE
(2-dimethlaminoethanol) can improve levels of acetylcholine, a
brain neurotransmitter. In one clinical trial involving individuals
suffering from senile dementia, participants were given 600 mg of
DMAE three times per day for four weeks. While DMAE did not appear
to make any significant changes in memory, positive behavior changes
were seen in some people. Unfortunately, other studies have shown no
considerable help was found when supplementing DMAE for Alzheimer’s
disease.
Coenzyme Q10 (60
mg), iron (150 mg of
sodium ferrous citrate), and vitamin B6 (180
mg) administered to two study participants with a hereditary form of
Alzheimer’s appeared to show a number of
improvements.
Herbs that may be helpful for
Alzheimer's patients
In Europe, an herbal extract
made from the leaves of the Ginkgo
biloba tree is commonly used as an early-stage treatment for
Alzheimer’s sufferers. While this herb is not cure, it has shown to
increase memory, quality of life, and delay the progress of the
disease.
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