Posted by bleauberry on April 28, 2008, at 20:18:38
In reply to Depressive Disorders lead to Alzheimer's, posted by SLS on April 27, 2008, at 6:38:16
Scott,
A medication you once tried is prescribed for delaying, preventing, and reducing alzheimer's symptoms. Memantine.
I've read several theories on the subject, ranging from Amalgam Illness Phd Andrew Cutler to chelation forums to my integrative MD and various scattered readings. While no solid understanding exists that I know of, a comglomerate of things I've seen include the following. Being nowhere close to an expert on Alzheimer's I can only pass along information gathered from other sources.
Oxidative stress may be an underlying trigger of Alzheimer's. Preventative supplements include Vitamin C 500mg-3000mg, Vitamin E 400IU-1000IU, Selenium 200mcg-300mcg. A diet high in raw veggies and fruits is good insurance.
Heavy metal burden. Also closely related to above mentioned oxidative stress, since lead and mercury cause massive increases in oxidative stress. The above supplements apply, with stronger emphasis on Selenium as it is not only an antioxidant but binds up the metals as well.
Deficient fatty acids. Mega doses are probably not warranted, but a regular modest supply of balanced omega oils gives what is typically lacking in American eating habits. Flax oil and safflower oil provide the stuff. They can be mixed with salad dressings or other foods or consumed raw. My doc says 3 or 4 servings per week is adequate for the body to get what it needs.
From a more psychological standpoint versus a physiological one, the mind can be kept sharp with routine exercise via puzzles, crossword puzzles, riddles, mysteries, and such. Older people tend to become less active, more vegetative, and unknowingly allow the mind to go dull. It can be exercised to stay in shape with routine daily mental challenges.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine is claimed to be pro-cholinergic and a pro-rejuvenator for the brain.
I would bet some of the smart drugs (the peracitam family, hydergine, and cousins) hold promise for Alzeimer's. I would have to go to pubmed and some of the smart drug websites to look at that closer.
In the arena of prescription drugs, I believe Memantine is the newest champion for Alzheimer's.
poster:bleauberry
thread:825769
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080420/msgs/826143.html