Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disorder, impairs memory and mental functioning. The onset is typically very slow. Initially, Alzheimer's sufferers have short-term memory loss and difficulty making decisions; they may forget how to perform simple tasks. Advanced stages bring loss of memory and speech, loss of bladder and bowel control, and changes in temperament, such as excessive hostility or withdrawal.

Experts still aren't sure what causes Alzheimer's. They know it is marked by a major loss of nerve cells in the brain, particularly in areas controlling memory and thinking. The disease is also characterized by reduced levels of brain chemicals important for memory. Decreased blood flow in the brain or a series of small strokes may contribute to memory loss as well. A family history of the disease can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's; other possible causes include serious head injury, cardiovascular disease, and slow-acting viruses. Studies indicate that aluminum, such as from cookware, is an unlikely cause of Alzheimer's; however, elevated levels of aluminum have been detected in the brains of people with the disease. In regions where aluminum sulfate is used for water purification, a possible connection to aluminum content in drinking water is being explored.

Supplements and herbs

Though there's no cure for Alzheimer's, scientists continue to make strides in treating the symptoms. A number of supplements may help restore mental functioning during the earlier stages of the disease and even delay the onset of advanced symptoms. Begin taking supplements as soon as possible; take them individually or together. It may be at least eight weeks before you notice any results. The supplements can also be used with the prescription drug donepezil, but always check with your doctor first.

One promising supplement is the herb ginkgo biloba. Controlled trials have shown that ginkgo, which increases the brain's blood supply, may improve memory in some patients. It may have antioxidant properties as well, playing a key role in maintaining healthy nerve cells. Other antioxidants that may be beneficial include vitamin C, vitamin E, mixed carotenoids, and coenzyme Q10.

In addition, be sure to get enough B vitamins-low levels, especially of B12 and folate, have been associated with Alzheimer's. Include vitamin B complex, as well as extra vitamin B6. Also worth trying are evening primrose oil and the herbs gotu kola and Siberian ginseng; all may improve memory by improving the transmission of nerve impulses. Two other nutrients may help by boosting memory-enhancing brain chemicals: the amino acid-like substances acetyl L-carnitine (500 mg three times a day) or phosphatidylserine (100 mg three times a day).

What else you can do

• Exercise. Even a short daily walk may help improve mental abilities.
• Keep your mind active by reading or practicing memory exercises.
• Stay relaxed to improve memory and concentration.

How much to take

Ginkgo biloba

80 mg 3 times a day.
Standardized to have at least 24% flavone glycosides.

Antioxidants

2,000 mg vitamin C, 400 IU vitamin E, and mixed carotenoids providing 25,000 IU vitamin A activity a day.
These may be sold in a single supplement.

Coenzyme Q 10

100 mg twice a day.
For best absorption, take with food.

Vitamin B complex

1 pill, plus extra 50 mg vitamin B6, a day with food.
Look for a B-I00 complex with 100 mcg vitamin B12 and biotin; 400 mcg folic acid; and 100 mg all other B vitamins.

Evening primrose oil

1,000 mg 3 times a day.
Can substitute 1,000 mg borage oil once a day.

Gotu kola

200mg extract or 400-500 mg crude herb 3 times a day.
Extract standardized to have 10% asiaticosides. May reduce fatigue and depression and stimulate central nervous system.

Siberian ginseng

100-300 mg 3 times a day.
Standardized to contain at least 0.8% eleutherosides.

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