|
Mental decline and
age-related diseases such as Alzheimers and Senile Dementia affect more
than four million people over the age of 6FREE, and 30% of people over the
age of 8FREE. Alzheimers is a disease that progresses slowly with memory
loss and disorientation as the first symptoms. Eventually there is
almost omplete loss of physical function and a reversion to childhood in
terms of care. Other symptoms include anxiety, mood swings and
apprehension and may result in personality changs. People with
Alzheimers have a tendency to wander and often neglect their hygeine and
appearance.
Although the causes remain unknown, there are a
number of theories which range from using too many drugs, long-term
exposure to aluminum cookware and utensils, nutritional deficiencies,
food allergies or possibly a viral connection. There are no labs tests
that can detect the existance of Alzheimers because it particularly
difficult to diagnose. Dementia may result from hardening of the
arteries which slowly cuts off the supply of blood to the brain.
In
1907, a German neurologist named Alois Alzheimer, first identified the
disorder which is characterized by mental deterioration that interferes
with the ability to function socially.
Nutrients and plant
devivatives may help prevent and treat the progression of impaired brain
function. Antioxidants and B Vitamins help reduce inflammatory damage
to the central vervous system. Essential fatty acids such as fish oil,
flax seed oil, and evening primrose oil help nourish the brain. Lecithin
contains choline which stimulates the production of acetylcholine and
may help with memory function. Suggested doasage is 100 mg. three times a
day with meals. Lecithin comes in granules or softgels. Alpha Lipoic
Acid (ALA) has shown an improvement in long-term memory impairment, and
has been researched since the 19FREE0's as a treatment for Parkinson's
Disease and Alzheimer's. Alpha Lipoic Acid can reduce damage to neurons
caused by toxic substances that are products of inflammatory processes.
ALA is also involved with numerous metabolic functions, including
glucose metabolism, liver function, energy production in muscles and
nervous systme function, which ultimately affects the brain.
B
Bitamins are essential for mental health. Deficiencies may manifest
themsleves as cognitive impairment or psychosis. B1 (thiamin) deficiency
is associated with a psychotic disorder, and B3 (niacin) deficiency is
associated with dementia, memory deficits and delirium. Studies indicate
that abnormally low levels of vitamin B 12 are also associated with
Alzheimers Disease.
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid
present in large amounts in brain tissue and the component of all cell
membranes. Suggested dosage is 300 mg. three times a day with meals.
Zinc prevents zinc depletion which has been linked to a number of brain
disorders. Ginkgo Biloba ia an herb that has been well documented to
improve cerebral blood flow, and exhibits antioxidant activity on
nerves. It may also reduce age-related decline of neurotransmitters and
receptors. Ginko may also slow the progression of Alzheimers by
improving blood flow and reduce blood vessel inflammation.
Proper
nutrition may deter the onset of Alzheimer's Disease. Avoid red meats,
sugar, alcohol, processed foods, and avoid using any aluminum cooking
utensils when preparing foods. Eating a well-balanced diet of natural
foods is highly recommended. Add fiber foods such as vegetables, sea
greens, nuts, ginger, eggs, and soy for brain-nourishing EFA's. Include B
vitamin foods such as brewere's yeast, brown rice, molasses, wheat
germ, fish and whole grains. Avoid flouridated water as it increases
aluminum absorption, and avoid using pain killers like buffered aspirin,
analgesics and antacids because they contain aluminum. By using natural
therapies, the slow progression of brain deterioriation has been
successful.
This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any ailment. Always consult with your health care professional.
Copyright 2003 by Patricia Valle
About the Author
I am a nutrition consultant at a
well-known health food store in So. California. Prior to working at this
store, I became interested in alternative medicine and nutrition when
my eldest son was dying of a terminal illness. A little over two years
ago I began writing articles on health, nutrition and herbs. Some of the
articles are on my own website. www.angel-made.com
|
