Alzheimers Disease Vitamins and Prevention

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, most 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 not enough 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 specifically may help to improve brain function in older adults.

Research produce by the Alzheimer's Cooperative Society reported on the effectiveness of two substances, vitamin E and Selegiline. Analysis of the research suggested that both vitamin E and Selegiline delayed nursing home placement, death and disability but not cognitive functions. Research also suggested no differences between combined use of vitamin E and Selegiline or from groups of participants receiving each individual substance alone. Dosages used in the study were 10 mg of selegiline once daily and/or 1,000 IU of vitamin E twice daily.

According to this study, vitamin E worked at least as well as selegiline on Alzheimer's progression and had fewer side effects. In addition to having fewer side effects Vitamin E also costs substantially less than selegiline. Consequently, it is preferred over selegiline for Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin E is considered by many researchers and medical practioners to be a benign medication and most people can take it without side effects. Notwithstanding, any change in medications should first be discussed with your primary care physician because all medication can cause side effects or interactions with other medications. People taking blood-thinners like warfarin (Coumadin®), ticlopidine (Ticlid®), and others should not start taking Vitamin E without doctor supervision.

Some researchers believe a substance known as DMAE (2-dimethlaminoethanol) can improve levels of acetylcholine, an important 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 a cure, it has shown to increase memory, quality of life, and possibley delay the progress of the disease.