Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurologic disorder that causes the brain to shrink (atrophy) and brain cells to die. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that affect a person’s ability to function independently.
The early signs of the disease include forgetting recent events or conversations. As the disease progresses, a person with Alzheimer’s disease will develop severe memory impairment and lose the ability to carry out everyday tasks. At first, a person with Alzheimer’s disease may be aware of having difficulty remembering things and organizing thoughts. Brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease lead to growing trouble with:
• Memory: Everyone has occasional memory lapses, but the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease persists and worsens, affecting the ability to function at work or home.
• Thinking and reasoning: Alzheimer’s disease causes difficulty concentrating and thinking, especially about abstract concepts such as numbers. A person with Alzheimer’s may be unable to recognize and deal with numbers.
• Making judgments and decisions: Alzheimer’s causes a decline in the ability to make reasonable decisions and judgments in everyday situations.
• Planning and performing familiar tasks: People with advanced Alzheimer’s often forget how to perform basic tasks such as dressing and bathing.
• Changes in moods and behaviors:These include depression, apathy, social withdrawal, mood swings, distrust in others, irritability and aggressiveness, changes in sleeping habits, and delusions, such as believing something has been stolen.
Ways to decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Medications may temporarily improve or slow the progression of symptoms. These treatments can sometimes help people with Alzheimer’s disease maximize function and maintain independence for a time.
a. Increase intake of blueberries, bilberries, and blackberries. In a study, participants with dementia showed improvement in cognitive tasks that depend on executive control.
b. Increase omega-3 fats found in fatty fish, such as Salmon, mackerel, herring, and anchovies, and plant-based sources such as walnuts, and flaxseeds. There have been reports that it may reduce the risk of developing dementia, especially when it is eaten as part of a healthy diet.
c. Olive oil can reduce Inflammation. A 2021 study suggests that it could play a role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers note that oleuropein aglycone, a polyphenol found in high levels in extra-virgin olive oil, reduced the formation of amyloid deposits, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
d. People who drank tea regularly reduced their risk of neurocognitive disorders by 50 percent by one study. Importantly, people genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s, reduced their risk of cognitive impairment by as much as 86%. The type of tea was immaterial; green or black had similar results. Teas apparently contains unique ingredients that helps to keep the brain from aging, while also boosting memory and alertness.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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