Search Term: " Alzheimers "
Can choline be used as an alternative treatment for Alzheimer'sdisease?
Date:
April 26, 2019 02:48 PM
While we don't what causes Alzheimer's disease, new research from Arizona State University points to choline as a promising treatment for the condition. When mice consumed large amounts of choline, they showed positive improvements in spatial memory. Furthermore, these positive benefits were evident in their offspring, even though they did not supplement directly with choline. Researchers believe that choline helps to control brain inflammation and neuron death, processes that both contribute to Alzheimer's. Experts recommend that adults take 550 milligrams of choline daily for optimal brain health Key Takeaways:
"In other words, choline could help protect against this illness across several generations. It was the first time researchers have been able to show the transgenerational benefits of choline supplementation." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-11-choline-a-natural-treatment-for-alzheimers-disease.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6195) Study: Following a choline-rich diet may offer transgenerationalprotection against Alzheimer's disease
Date:
April 24, 2019 03:44 PM
Lack of nutrition can end up damaging cells and bring out the worst traits in our genes. A new study found that a maternal high diet in choline can protect the offspring from getting Alzheimer's disease in the future even if the choline levels in the offspring are low. The study was done on mice that were genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's. The body makes choline naturally, but some needs to be consumed in order to receive the amount that is required for healthy cellular functions. Key Takeaways:
"The mice that were born from mothers on choline-rich diets developed fewer disease-associated brain changes. They also exhibited improved memory skills. Even when the descendants didn’t receive choline in their diet, they still enjoyed the benefits of brain protection from their mother’s nutrient-rich diet." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-11-study-following-a-choline-rich-diet-protection-against-alzheimers-disease.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6179) Coconut oil studied for its potential to reverse Alzheimer's
Date:
April 22, 2019 04:31 PM
A recent study that was conducted by scientists in Spain has shown that extra virgin coconut oil can actually result in the reversal of Alzheimer's symptoms. A controlled group was given 40 mL of olive oil each day while receiving cognitive evaluations by the researchers in order to determine how their cognitive functioning was coming along. The results showed an increase in this functioning when it came to those who were taking in the extra virgin coconut oil on a regular basis. Key Takeaways:
"Some research has indicated that it very well could be a natural way to boost cognition, and possibly even reverse the effects of this dreaded disease." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-02-27-coconut-oil-to-reverse-alzheimers.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6153) This deficiency often leads to brain shrinkage, psychosis and Alzheimer
Date:
April 09, 2019 10:21 AM
There are serious health consequences associated with being deficient in vitamins B3, B6 and B12, including many with neurological or psychiatric elements. B vitamins are very important to healthy brain function, and can also play a role in whether and how quickly diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s develop. Specifically, being deficient in these vitamins can increase levels of homocysteine, which is associsted with sharply increasing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Getting enough of the most important B vitamins can suppress homocysteine and help keep your brain healthy. Key Takeaways:
"It should come as no surprise that nutrition is a foundational consideration to optimize and maintain cognitive function." Read more: https://www.healthnutnews.com/this-deficiency-often-leads-to-brain-shrinkage-psychosis-and-alzheimers/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6124) Reduces homocysteine levels and acts as an Alzheimers bodyguard?
Date:
March 12, 2019 01:50 PM
The prevalence of Alzheimer's is steadily growing, and researchers are growing more and more concerned at the apparent epidemic. Approximately one in six adults will end up experiencing some form of dementia, and this statistic alone is enough to motivate medical experts to find solutions. Some physicians are finding that taking in adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids each day can help prevent the stiffening and inflammation of cells that have the potential to lead to a drop in cognitive function related to dementia. Key Takeaways:
"The influence of marine-based omega-3 fats on physical and mental health has been the subject of intense research for decades, and there’s compelling evidence they can help ameliorate a variety of psychiatric illnesses and degenerative brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s." Read more: https://www.healthnutnews.com/reduces-homocysteine-levels-and-acts-as-an-alzheimers-bodyguard/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6073) Are Alzheimer's and sugar consumption linked? Studies detail thedeadly connection
Date:
February 05, 2019 04:38 PM
Sugar as various effects on the body, and Western diets are full of it in many forms. American consume nearly an entire diet that contains processed food, most of which contains highly concentrated amounts of sugar and or corn syrup. Consumption of these foods is not easy to avoid, as corn syrup is in just about everything, however, studies show that a diet high in refined sugars can lead to brain malfunction. It is not clear yet whether it is the population that is living longer is developing brain disorders such as Alzheimer more, or if there is a correlation between other health related issues from high sugar intake and brain diseases. Key Takeaways:
"However, according to various studies, consuming too much sugar can increase your risk of Alzheimer’s disease." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-12-27-link-between-alzheimers-and-sugar.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6002) Study: PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) may prevent and even reverseAlzheimer's
Date:
January 04, 2019 08:12 AM
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PPQ) is a microbe that is derived from plants, and it is showing to have neurological benefits that are associated with the prevention of Alzheimer's progression. This particular microbe is able to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can lead to several neurological conditions. It also helps patients in post-stroke recovery because it is able to reduce the area of the brain that is impacted by stroke activity. Most importantly, it helps in the prevention of Alzheimer's due to how it can neutralize levels of oxidative stress. Key Takeaways:
"Glutamate is an important chemical in the brain, but too much of it results in excitotoxicity, a risk factor in both stroke and neurodegenerative disease. PQQ protects the brain from overstimulation by glutamate and the resulting death of brain cells." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-12-15-ppq-can-prevent-alzheimers.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5928) Curcumin Showing Promise In Alzheimer's Research
Date:
December 04, 2018 12:51 PM
Alzheimer's is a really terrible disease that has affected many people around the world. For anyone who has witnessed it in any type of capacity, they understand how devastating it can be. There have been a lot of studies done to try and find a cure for it but there has been no set cure found. It makes it difficult for families that are affected. Now, curcumin is getting attention as something that can help fight against the disease. Key Takeaways:
"The potential of turmeric to help combat this debilitating disease cannot be ignored by mainstream medicine any longer, effects of this and others like it must be investigated more thoroughly; and experts are describing the effects of turmeric on Alzheimer’s patients as being remarkable." Read more: https://www.worldhealth.net/news/curcumin-showing-promise-alzheimers-research/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5871) Eating too much processed sugar increases your risk of Alzheimer's
Date:
September 26, 2018 09:52 AM
According to recent research, people that consume a lot of processed sugars run a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. What happens is the high sugar levels damage a major enzyme called macrophage migration inhibitory factor. Previous research has already shown that people with diabetes are more likely to develop this disease. However, the most recent research looked at brain samples of people with and without this disease and the process of glycation. It showed that glycation damages the essential enzyme which regulates insulin and the immune response. Key Takeaways:
"Research has found that a high intake of processed sugar can raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-09-12-eating-too-much-processed-sugar-increases-your-risk-of-alzheimers.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5773) Gut microbes play a significant role in the central nervous system digestive health is linked to your risk of neurodegenerative diseases
Date:
August 07, 2018 09:53 AM
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers are becoming more and more common in the United States, and pose an increasing risk to aging populations. A recent study has identified gut microbes as one of the causes of these diseases - a huge breakthrough in the field, and one with significant implications for how we view our brain's health. These microbes release chemicals that can change the nature of the brain. It's a finding that shows that caring for our digestive health can be one of the most important steps to preventing diseases like Alzheimers, later on. Key Takeaways:
"They reached their conclusions after examining gut microbes and changes in mouse models of multiple sclerosis. They discovered the compounds produced by the breakdown of tryptophan cross the blood-brain barrier and activate an inflammatory pathway that can limit neurodegeneration." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-07-30-gut-microbes-play-a-significant-role-in-the-central-nervous-system.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5695) Turmeric may help boost memory, lower Alzheimer's risk: study
Date:
January 26, 2018 07:59 AM
Curcumin is one of the chemicals that helps to make up turmeric. While turmeric has shown great benefits in the past, this specific portion is showing great promise in memory and even Alzheimer's disease. It was found to help improve memory in people who didn't have dementia and help clear up the plaques formed by Alzheimer's disease. It is also thought that this spice, highly common in Indian cooking, is another reason why there is such a low prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in India. Key Takeaways:
"Those taking curcumin also had mild improvements in mood, and their brain PET scans showed significantly less amyloid and tau signals in the amygdala and hypothalamus than those who took placebos." Read more: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/turmeric-may-help-boost-memory-lower-alzheimers-risk-study/1237371
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5506) Omega-3 benefits for brain health are well documented; now researchers have determined they help prevent Alzheimer’s
Date:
December 19, 2017 03:59 PM
Omega-3s are beneficial for the brain and may help prevent Alzheimer's. Coconut Oil is shown to have this important nutrient. There's no need to go to your favorite drug store when you can get this from nature. Coconut oil has ketones which the liver treats as food. The liver converts the coconut oil into an alternative energy source for the body and brain. This has tremendous benefit for many aspects of the body's functions especially the brain function. Key Takeaways:
"Omega-3s are just one piece of a much greater anti-aging nutritional puzzle, particularly as it pertains to brain health." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2017-12-11-omega-3-benefits-for-brain-health-are-well-documented-now-researchers-have-determined-they-help-prevent-alzheimers.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5444) Turmeric is so hot RN! This is why you should stock up on the spice everyone is loving
Date:
September 16, 2017 09:14 AM
The popularity of the spice turmeric is growing and for good reason. For one, turmeric is rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall cardiac health. The orange colored root is also helpful in controlling blood sugar, which is helpful in preventing and managing diabetes. Furthermore, turmeric has antidepressant properties, which can boost your mood. A common way to incorporate turmeric into your diet is via ‘Golden Milk’, which is a combination of milk, turmeric powder, cinnamon, and black pepper. Key Takeaways:
"Turmeric's antioxidant effect on blood vessels can help prevent blood clots, improve blood circulation and reduce cholesterol – all extremely beneficial to the body's overall cardiac function." Read more: http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/turmeric-benefits-and-uses
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5251) New non-invasive eye test can detect Alzheimer's 20 years before symptoms start
Date:
August 22, 2017 07:14 PM
Researchers at hospital in Los Angeles have published a report claiming they have developed an eye test that can detect Alzheimer's disease well in advance - twenty years - before actual symptoms show up. Traditional methods of diagnosing this disease are to perform look at the patient's brain after death, or to perform a PET scan. The report just published claims it can detect the disease by scanning a patient's retina for plaque. The test is non invasive. A link to the journal where the report appeared is included in the article. Read more: New non-invasive eye test can detect Alzheimer's 20 years before symptoms start
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5163) Omega-3 oils found to halt neuroinflammation that leads to Alzheimer's disease
Date:
August 04, 2017 07:14 AM
Omega 3 oils have been found to stop neuroinlammation that leads to Alzheimer's disease. Omega 3 fatty acids have been attracting a lot of nutrition headlines lately as there are studies that continue to reinforce their well known benefits as well as uncovering some new ones. Omega 3 has long been linked to brain health, and new research has shown how dietary essential fatty acids could help to treat Alzheimer's disease and other illnesses in the early stages. Read more: Omega-3 oils found to halt neuroinflammation that leads to Alzheimer's disease
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5082) Extra virgin olive oil found to prevent Alzheimer's and protect the brain's memory function
Date:
July 01, 2017 12:14 PM
News outlet have recently been sharing the findings of researchers from Temple University who have discovered that extra-virgin olive oil has positive effects on the brain. These effects are beneficial towards Alzheimer’s disease as well as memory loss. The study was performed on mice with induced Dementia that were given food enriched with extra-virgin olive oil before they started to show any symptoms of the disease. Researchers are now interested to see if these issues can be stopped or reversed with olive oil. This is very beneficial as Alzheimer’s and Dementia are prevalent. Key Takeaways:
"Researchers from Temple University have discovered that extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) can not only help protect against memory loss, but it can also alleviate the conditions associated with Alzheimer’s disease." Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-06-28-extra-virgin-olive-oil-found-to-prevent-alzheimers-and-protect-the-brains-memory-function.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4912) Olive Oil Can Help Preserve Memory And Prevent Alzheimer's
Date:
June 24, 2017 12:14 PM
Alzheimer's disease affects nearly 44 million people worldwide. According to a study done by researchers at Temple University in Pennsylvania, olive oil can help preserve memory and essentially prevent Alzheimer's disease. Dominico Pratico, lead researcher of the study, stated that olive oil helps reduce inflammation and activates a process in the brain called autophagy. Autophagy is a way that the cells in the body break down and clean out unwanted debris in the body. Mice were given olive oil in the study, and the mice that received the olive oil showed signs that the olive oil made their memory improve and lessened the signs of Alzheimer's. The researchers from this study plan to continue researching the effects of olive oil and Alzheimer's in older mice to see if they can eradicate the disease in mice altogether. Key Takeaways:
"When the team studied the brain tissue from both groups of mice, they noticed "dramatic" differences in nerve cell appearance and function. As compared to the mice that didn't consume the oil, the brain cells of rodents in the oil group showed a dramatic increase in nerve cell autophagy activation." Read more: http://doctor.ndtv.com/news/olive-oil-can-now-help-preserve-memory-and-prevent-alzheimers-1715610
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4877) How Coconut Oil May Rescue The Brain From Alzheimer’s Disease
Date:
June 04, 2017 04:14 PM
One more reason to celebrate coconut oil! Coconut oil can be used for so many things -- from healing dry skin to easing constipation. However, coconut oil also shows promise to aid in easing Alzheimer's symptoms! In an exciting new study soon to be published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease titled, “Coconut Oil Attenuates the Effects of Amyloid-ß on Cortical Neurons In Vitro.”, researchers found that adding coconut oil can have positive effects on the brain soon after it's ingested, helping to heal the brain of what is known as "type 3 diabetes". Researchers believe coconut oil shows great promise in helping extend the brain functions of Alzheimer's patients and warrants more research. Key Takeaways:
"Could the poetry of our direct experience tell us something about the value this food has to our brain" Read more: http://www.healthnutnews.com/how-coconut-oil-may-rescue-the-brain-from-alzheimers-disease/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4771) CONFIRMED: Omega-3s boost blood flow to regions of the brain responsible for learning and memory
Date:
June 02, 2017 12:14 PM
A new study finds an increase in blood flowing to your brain, and it may help to prevent cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's disease is a leading cause of death, causing a downward deterioration of a person ability to live independently as the symptoms become worse. The study shows correlation between omega-3 concentrations in the brain with a lower incidence of brain disease, called neurocognitive disorders. The omega-3 is found to be the cause of increased blood flow to the brain, resulting in a decreased probability of neural degradation. Key Takeaways:
"This study opens the door to the possibility that relatively simple dietary changes could favorably impact cognitive function." Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-05-25-confirmed-omega-3s-boost-blood-flow-to-regions-of-the-brain-responsible-for-learning-and-memory.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4754) 9 Habits you Need to Start Today to Stop Dementia and Alzheimer’s Before it Starts
Date:
May 04, 2017 11:44 AM
Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease are two conditions prominent in elderly patients. There is no cure, and while treatments are available, it seems the conditions are more progressive than science. Preventing these conditions before they occur is your best option. Doing this isn't as difficult as you might think for it to be. In fact, there are habits you can stop doing right now that will lessen the risk that these conditions are going to affect you later in life. Key Takeaways:
"Though they have not shown to be effective in the later stages of dementia, studies have shown that supplementation early on in dementia may improve symptoms, and diets high in omega-3s or that have been supplemented early on in life can decrease your chance of developing the disease." Read more: http://www.healthnutnews.com/9-habits-need-start-today-stop-dementia-alzheimers-starts/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4533) 7 Weird Things Linked to Memory Loss Later in Life
Date:
February 12, 2017 12:59 PM
There are 7 weird things linked to memory loss later on in life. Air pollution is one of these causes. Poor sleep is another thing related to memory loss. If your sleep is disturbed for many years, then it could actually increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's. One very strange thing related to memory loss is a poor sense of smell. Key Takeaways:
"For people with a family history of Alzheimer’s, a blow to the head might accelerate the cognitive and brain changes associated with the disease." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3929) Vitamin K2: 9 Uses and Benefits
Date:
January 13, 2017 12:59 PM
Vitamin K2 is often overlooked in the normal diet, yet K2 is is known to be essential to bone health and heart tissue health. When balanced with Vitamin D3 and magnesium, K2 helps bind those minerals to the bone matrix. Vitamin K2 can be found in certain foods or through supplements for those interested in enhancing their uptake of this important vitamin. Key Takeaways:
"Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that is important for blood clotting and that contributes to a healthy heart, bones and immune system." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3778) Importance of Magnesium in the body.
Date:
May 08, 2014 08:48 PM
Importance of magnesium Magnesium is an important element that is essential for hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. Its functions is to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, regulates blood glucose levels and aids the production of energy and protein, helps bones remain strong, supports a healthy immune system and lastly, keeps the heart beat steady. Cause of lack in magnesium Lack of magnesium causes many diseases. Substantial magnesium deficiencies have led to deaths caused by coronary diseases, diabetes, cancer and strokes. On the other hand mild magnesium deficiency causes nervousness, mental depression, increased sensitivity to noise, confusion, insomnia, twitching and trembling and apprehension. Sources of magnesium are from foods we eat
Symptoms indicating lack of magnesium are: sleepiness, muscle weakness and hyperexcitablity. Magnesium works in the brain miraculously as remarked by many scientists through researches. Magnesium L-Threonate has the capability to cross into the brain and boost magnesium levels. Magnesium L-Threonate boosts magnesium levels in the brain in that, it maintains a state of healthy sustained action. Through maintaining this healthy homeostasis, mental demands in the brain can respond well and perform cognitive responsibilities with less stress and fatigue. The blood-brain barrier is a diffusion barrier, which impedes influx of most compounds from blood to brain. It is composed of high-density cells that prevent passage of substances from the blood stream, but in a more action than the endothelial cells in the capillaries do in other parts of the body. Due the reasons, why most magnesium supplements do not cross blood barrier magnesium Threonte was introduced. Threonate is a vitamin C metabolite that acts as a carrier to help magnesium to penetrate into the brain. Sources
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3115) Is Coconut Oil A Brain Food?
Date:
January 26, 2014 09:34 AM
It is amazing how coconut oil has been ascribed as a good brain food. Since Dr. Mary Newport associated coconut oil with the ability to cure Alzheimer’s disease, it has attracted the attention of researchers and other interested parties. However, her attractive explanation of how the oil helped her husband to improve her husband’s Alzheimer’s disease can be described from the observation of an Alzheimer patient’s brain. Taking into consideration Axona that is usually used by Alzheimer’s patients, its active ingredients is the caprylic acid that is extracted from the oil. As a substitute, Dr. Newport used coconut food products such as oil and milk in her husband diet to achieve the same quantity of MCTs. This improved her husband’s condition a clear indication that coconut oil has some medicinal value. From a scientific point of view, it is approved that the disease is caused by insulin resistant cells thus causing the brain to unsuccessfully use glucose to fuel their activity. In its place, ketone bodies are used as a substitute fuel supply. Coconut oil is a good supply of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), for instance caprylic acid that is simply transformed into ketone bodies in the liver when ingested. Then they act as an alternative of glucose which provides fuel for the brain. Neuroprotective effect of the coconut oil is attributed to the ketone bodies formed as a byproduct of coconut oil metabolism. Therefore, leading to an energy metabolism. The ketone bodies will then supply the compromised brain structure with the much-needed alternative fuel source from the Ketone bodies. However, it is of the essence to state that coconut oil is only known for improving the condition. For this reason, there has been an increased call for more research, particularly human clinical trials. Since there is no any cure yet, coconut oil is going to remain a good brain food of choice for others who are experiencing Alzheimer. References:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2986) Thanks for the Memory
Date:
June 11, 2005 03:49 PM
Thanks for the Memory by Estelle Sobel , February 6, 2002 Thanks for the Memory By Estelle Sobel "I feel like every day, I lose my memory more and more. It started when I couldn't find my car keys, sometimes I forget directions. My mother has Alzheimer's so I'm concerned," says Jerry Solowitz, a 63 year old man. Ellen Lerner, 37, sometimes worries that she can't keep track of everything in her job as a public relations executive. "I feel like stress can get to me easily, and I worry because I forget simple things like where I put a file." Should these people be concerned? "Yes," says Lynda Toth, Ph.D., co-author with Pavel Yutsis, M.D., of Why Can't I Remember? Reversing Memory Loss (Avery, 1999). Jerry should start a specific program with a health practitioner who specializes in memory loss, due to lots of unsuspected new causes for memory dysfunction. Ellen needs to make lifestyle changes, as stress can definitely lead to memory loss. "Cortisol, which is one of the stress hormones, can be harmful because it keeps calcium in the memory pathway too long and destroys the neurons, which is very damaging to the brain," notes Toth. Why Does Memory Fail? Memory fails for several reasons, says Augustine DiGiovanna, M.D., author of Human Aging: Biological Perspectives, (McGraw-Hill 2000), and Professor of Biology at Salisbury State University in Salisbury, MD. Normal Aging: Much of diminished memory as we age is due to reduced blood flow to the brain from atherosclerosis, which is hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Decreased blood flow causes neurons to shrink and function less effectively. Also, as we age we lose neurons and neuron connections that can lead to memory loss. So the way people think, how much they remember, and the mental activities they do determine how many brain cells survive through the years. Finally, as people live longer, the chance is greater that the body's immune system and other defense mechanisms won't be able to protect against certain diseases that affect the brain and memory (Parkinson's, strokes, Alzheimers, atherosclerosis). A Starving Brain: The brain is not getting fed the nutrients it needs (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, glucose). Without the right "food" the brain's energy levels become lowered and stop powering the memory cells. Then, free radicals can do more dirty work and continue to rust memory cells. Drink And Sink: Alcohol passes through the blood-brain barrier and slows down the processing of information between memory neurons. Memory loss increases over time, as memory tissues shrink. Sad Stories: Depression can imbalance the neurotransmitters and electrical charges of neurons. Tense and Tight: High blood pressure can constrict and narrow blood vessels, limiting blood and oxygen flow to the brain. Memory-Sustaining Supplements One way to boost brain power is to take the right supplements. Ginkgo biloba: The powerful medicinal herb ginkgo biloba increases blood flow and circulation to the head by dilating blood vessels in the brain, allowing more oxygenated blood to get to the neurons. It also protects against free radical damage. Research: Ginkgo biloba extract displayed a significant effect on helping the mental abilities of people 50-59 years old (Phytotherapy Research 13, 1999: 408-415). Pregnenolone: This powerful hormone regulates the balance between excitation and inhibition in the nervous system and helps enhance memory and brain function, possibly by repairing a fatty substance that is part of the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve cells. Research: A St. Louis University School of Medicine study on mice showed that pregnenolone enhanced memory and helped mice to navigate mazes better. Huperzine A: This herbal supplement is derived from club moss found in China; in purified form it inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter produced in the brain that you need for memory. Research: Studies conducted by Alan Mazurek, M.D., found that huperzine A in purified form improves memory, enhances focus and concentration and has been used to improve memory loss in Alzheimer's patients (Alt. Ther. in Health Med. 5 [2], March 1999: 97-98). Another study in The Journal of Neuroscience Research showed that huperzine A is a potent inhibitor of cholinesterase, which penetrates the brain and produces a dose-dependent increase of the neurotransmitters acetylcholine, norepinephrine and dopamine in rat cortex (41, 1995: 828-835). Phosphatidylserine (PS): This substance, which occurs naturally in nerve cell membranes, helps keep fatty substances soluble and cell membranes fluid and helps reduce levels of cortisone which are damaging to tissues. Research: Phosphatidylserine encourages a sense of calm by raising the levels of alpha brain waves and increasing the production of acetylcholine (Neuropsychobiology 24, 1990-1991: 42-48). Vitamin E: This potent antioxidant attaches to bad cholesterol and helps prevent free radical damage to cells. Research: Age-related processes like memory function and problem solving can be affected by free radical damage. Several studies show that vitamin E might slow the effects of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease (JAMA 282, August 18, 1999: 621). Acetyl-l-carnitine: Increases cognitive performance because it rejuvenates cellular membranes of mitochondria, the storehouses of energy contained in every living cell. Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Preserves memory tissue by increasing glutathione levels, which protect fat stores in neurons from being damaged. Nine Ways to Remember Dr. Lynda Toth suggests the following ways to make the most of what you've now got. 1) Power Up Your Smile. Remove dental fillings and replace them with porcelain or ceramic ones. The mercury in metal fillings may be harmful (some believe) and can affect the brain and nervous system, inflaming memory tissue and preventing the entry of nutrients into the cells. 2) Don't Be a Tin Man/Woman Avoid exposure to aluminum. Don't use aluminum pots to cook in. Aluminum accumulates in memory tissue, damaging cells. In fact, autopsies of Alzheimers patients show they have unusually huge amounts of aluminum in the brain. But no one knows where this aluminum comes from. 3) Eat Right. Eat organic and pesticide-free foods. Pesticides get into the cells and can damage DNA. 4) A Matter of Taste. Avoid foods with artificial coloring, monosodium glutamate (MSG, often called "natural flavors" or "natural seasoning"). Also avoid processed foods with taste enhancers called exito toxins such as l-cysteine and aspartic acid. 5) In the Raw. Make sure that your diet consists of enzyme-rich 50% raw foods (fruits and vegetables) to feed the brain. Eat less animal fats. * Drink green juices to support levels of the brain's clean-up enzymes. *Eat lots of fiber, which helps remove toxins from the body. Pick up psyllium fiber. *Limit intake of processed sugar, caffeine and alcohol to lessen the load on the liver and pancreas. 6) Cut Bait. Watch the fish that you eat. Lots of ocean and inland-caught fish are contaminated with mercury. Go for deep, cold water fish such as cod. Avoid shark and swordfish. 7). Oil Up. Supplement your diet with omega-3 fatty acids, such as cod liver oil or flaxseed oil. These fats lubricate memory cells. 8) Work That Body. Stay fit and exercise. Exercise helps oxygenate the body, reduces cholesterol, and builds and energizes new memory cells which reduces wear and tear on the brain function. 9) Do Mind Games. Read, listen to music. Tune into different radio stations than the ones you normally listen to. Do crossword puzzles and a wide selection of word games which can stretch your brain and give it a tough workout. Student of Life You need to keep learning your whole life to keep your brain and memory in tip top shape. The brain is adaptable, and you are always building new neurons, says Dr. Toth, which means that there is no limit to how long it can develop. Anything that stimulates the brain will help it to grow. That's why as you get older it's even more important to take classes, start a new hobby, travel. In fact, the challenge of learning and doing new things (without stopping in a fit of frustration) causes your brain to grow, says Dr. Mazurek. The Good News As people get older, their brains may actually improve and repair themselves through a complicated process that is designed to eliminate faulty neurons that are prone to making mistakes. At the same time, brain activity goes on that results in the development of new and improved connections with neighboring neurons. Research also shows that memory improves if you train people to have faith in themselves. (The brain helps those who help themselves.) Apparently, a confident perspective can encourage the brain to actually improve to the point where its new-found abilities may increase to the point where it fulfills expectations. So keep your chin up and stay away from the artery-clogging saturated fat that can cut off the brain's blood supply. It's all in the attitude, says Dr. DiGiovanna. And, of course, the key to a long and happy life with your brain is also on the end of your fork and in that bottle of supplements. Estelle Sobel, is the co-author of Beautiful Skin: Every Woman's Guide to Looking Her Best at Any Age (Adams Media, May 2000).
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