It has been reported that more than 5 million Americans suffer from the most common form of dementia—Alzheimer’s disease. And that number is expected to triple in the next 30 years! Most people are diagnosed after age 60, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautions earlier in life.

Research has not found the definite cause of this degenerative disorder, but has shown that people with Alzheimer’s may be suffering from deficiencies in certain types of nutrition. Let’s look at some of the possible triggers:

• Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, as part of the B-complex family, is vital for normal brain function, as well as aiding the digestive process of food.
• Zinc. Similarly, studies have found the mineral zinc to be deficient in Alzheimer’s sufferers. The development of amyloid plaques has been linked to lack of sufficient zinc.
• Acetylcholine. Because of the direct impact this chemical has on transmissions between nerve cells, acetylcholine should be a required part of the supplement plan.
• Ginkgo Biloba. This plant extract is known to have a positive impact on cells within the brain. It has anti-inflammatory properties, with the ability to regulate neurotransmitter function.
• Coenzyme Q10. This is an antioxidant that occurs naturally in the body and is needed for normal cell reactions to occur, particularly the ability of cells to carry oxygen. With Alzheimer disease, the ability to carry as much oxygen to the brain is crucial for as normal a performance as possible. Coenzyme Q10 also increases circulation, stimulates the immune system and improves the cardiovascular system.
• Boron. Although you only need this in trace amounts, boron is an essential mineral and nutrient for brain health. It promotes alertness, and also assists in the metabolism of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus that have crucial roles in the circulatory health of the body.
• Homocysteine (Folic acid). This is an amino acid, and studies show there are higher levels of it present in people with this illness. Folic acid not only reduces the incidence of heart attack, but is most effective in regulating the levels of this amino acid.
• Phosphatidyl serine. This is a phospholipid that is essential to all cells in the human body. It has been shown to be effective in improving cognitive abilities in individuals with and without Alzheimer’s disease.
• Vitamins A (as beta carotene) and E. These are powerful antioxidants that focus on reducing oxidation on vital organs, including the brain. Vitamins A and E should be taken in combination with the B-complex vitamins. Care should be taken with vitamin E if you are taking blood thinners—consult your doctor.
• Pycnogenol. This naturally occurring substance is derived from pine bark extract, and for Alzheimer’s disease, can be absorbed quickly to protect the brain and spinal cord from free radical damage.

There are many things that you can do to help offset your chances of developing this debilitating disease, and the earlier you recognize the risks, the better. I suggest not only evaluating the supplements you take daily, but also educating yourself and your family on all aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. Once armed with this knowledge, it can help you retain your precious mind for years to come!

Posted in General Health, Memory.

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