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LMU – 288 Supplement Formula Shown to Improve Early Alzheimer’s Disease

LMU-288

Supporting Cognitive Health: Insights from a Nutritional Approach for Early-Stage Alzheimer's Patients

Source: American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2009)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (May 17, 2023)

Introduction: Understanding the Study

A recent study published in the American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease sheds light on the potential benefits of a specific natural supplement regimen for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This one-year study, followed by a caregiver extension of an additional four months, showcased notable improvements in various cognitive parameters among participants.

Study Findings: Promising Results

Participants who received the natural supplement demonstrated enhancements in cognitive assessments, including the Dementia Rating Scale and Clock-drawing Tests. Additionally, caregivers reported improvements in neuropsychiatric parameters and observed maintenance of performance in daily activities among the participants. Even after the 16-month period, those who continued the supplement regimen exhibited sustained improvement, as noted by their caregivers.

Understanding the Supplement Composition

The natural supplement consisted of essential B-vitamins such as Folic Acid and Vitamin B6, along with Vitamin E, SAMe, N-acetylcysteine, and Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Each component plays a crucial role in supporting brain health and function.

Scientific Rationale: Targeting Key Mechanisms

The researchers highlighted the significance of the supplement’s ingredients. Folic acid, SAMe, and Vitamin B6 are essential for neurotransmitter production and homocysteine regulation, addressing established risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin E serves as a potent antioxidant, protecting brain cells from oxidative stress. Moreover, N-acetylcysteine boosts glutathione levels, critical for combating free radical damage, while Acetyl-L-Carnitine supports mitochondrial function and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Implications for Alzheimer’s Management

The study underscores the importance of integrating nutritional interventions alongside conventional Alzheimer’s treatment. While pharmaceutical approaches often overlook critical aspects of the disease, targeted natural supplements offer a multifaceted approach to preserve cognitive function and slow disease progression. Considering the limited efficacy of Alzheimer’s drugs alone, supplementing with nutrients tailored to address key disease mechanisms is a promising avenue for mild cognitive impairment and early-stage Alzheimer’s patients.

Recommendations for Cognitive Health

In addition to the supplement investigated in the study, individuals over 50 may benefit from incorporating other cognitive support nutrients like CDP-choline, Phosphatidylserine, Huperzine A, and Bacopa monnieri into their daily regimen. These nutrients have shown promise in reversing mild cognitive impairment and may serve as preventive measures against age-related memory decline.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Cognitive Wellness

As research continues to uncover the intricate mechanisms underlying cognitive decline, embracing a holistic approach that combines targeted nutritional supplementation with conventional treatments holds immense promise in supporting cognitive health and enhancing quality of life for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

Reference:

Chan A et al. Efficacy of a vitamin/nutraceutical formulation for early-stage Alzheimer’s disease: A 1-year, open-label pilot study with a 16-month caregiver extension. Am J Alzheimer’s Disease. 2009; 23(6): 571-585.
[Link](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epdf/10.1177/1533317508325093)

 

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,

Dr. Meschino


Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 278 – Revitalizing the Mind: Navigating Alzheimer’s with Nicotinamide Ribose

LMU-278

Revitalizing the Mind: Navigating Alzheimer's with Nicotinamide Ribose

Source: Journal Aging Cell (December 14, 2022)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (March 8, 2023)

Introduction:

In the intricate tapestry of health, an elixir known as Nicotinamide Ribose (NR) emerges as a protagonist in the quest against Alzheimer’s disease. The tale begins with an illuminating study in the December 2022 edition of Aging Cell, revealing NR’s journey across the blood-brain barrier, weaving a narrative of hope in preventing cognitive decline.

The Symphony of Energy: NAD+ and the Brain

    • The Dance of Niacin (B3)

Niacin, a humble nutrient, transforms into Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) within our cells, orchestrating a symphony crucial for energy production. As we age, however, this symphony falters, with declining NAD+ levels compromising optimal energy
production and the activation of longevity genes.

    •  NR’s Entrance: A 2022 Overture

The 2022 study in Aging Cell whispers tales of NR’s entrance, showing promise in raising brain NAD+ levels. A daily supplement of 500 mg of Nicotinamide Ribose for six weeks painted a canvas of lower inflammation biomarkers, reduced amyloid plaque, and inhibited tau protein breakdown—key players in the Alzheimer’s narrative.

Decoding the Alzheimer’s Enigma: NAD+ and Brain Health

    • Sirtuins: The Epigenetic Guardians

Sirtuin genes, akin to epigenetic guardians, modulate brain genes, curbing inflammation, and thwarting the synthesis of amyloid plaque and tau protein coalescence. The decline in NAD+ levels sets the stage for Alzheimer’s hallmarks—brain inflammation, amyloid plaque synthesis, and tau protein entanglement.

    • NR’s Impact: A Symphony in the Blood

In a mesmerizing turn of events, NR supplementation demonstrated a significant decline in Alzheimer’s biomarkers within extracellular vesicles for neuronal origin (NEVs). These NEVs, originating from the brain, provided a window into the reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease after NR’s six-week serenade.

A Glimpse into Tomorrow: NR and Alzheimer’s Prevention

    • Cognitive Aging and Research: A Beacon of Hope

The Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging and Research ventures further into the unknown, exploring NR’s potential to reverse early-stage memory loss. This ongoing exploration holds the promise of a groundbreaking chapter in Alzheimer’s prevention.

    • The Niacin Trilogy: NR, Nicotinamide, NMN

Beyond NR’s limelight, its cousins, nicotinamide and Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN), join the stage, hinting at a trio of nutrients showing great promise in raising NAD+ levels.

The Personal Symphony: A Supplemental Prelude

    • Personal Wellness Symphony

In the personal symphony of health, a high-potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement enriched with antioxidants becomes a daily overture. A B-50 complex, featuring 50 mg of niacin, takes center stage, showcasing its potential in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.

    • Sublingual Serenade: The Future of Nutrient Delivery

The stage is set for sublingual supplements—offering a lower dosage but direct absorption into the bloodstream. A future episode will delve into this novel nutrient delivery method, unlocking new possibilities for optimal health.

Epilogue: Niacin’s Melody in Alzheimer’s Prevention

As the curtain falls on this chapter, the promise of niacin supplementation, its metabolites, and the enchanting Nicotinamide Ribose echoes as a melody of hope in the symphony against Alzheimer’s disease.

References:

  1. Vreones M et al. [Oral nicotinamide ribose raises NAD+ and lowers biomarkers of neurodegenerative pathology in plasma extracellular vesicles enriched for neuronal origin.](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acel.13754) Aging Cell. December 14, 2022.
  2. Nicotinamide Ribose supplement linked to reduced biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease. [Neurosciencenews.com February 23, 2023](https://neurosciencenews.com/nicotinamide-riboside-alzheimers-22550/)
 

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,

Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 252 – Finding the Key to Alzheimer’s Prevention: Lifestyle Changes and Cholesterol Management

LMU-252

Finding the Key to Alzheimer's Prevention: Lifestyle Changes and Cholesterol Management

Source: Brain Science Journal (June 2020)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (August 3, 2022)

Introduction:

In the quest to conquer Alzheimer’s disease, a significant breakthrough has recently emerged. Contrary to the hopes pinned on drugs targeting beta-amyloid plaque, these medications have thus far fallen short in preventing or treating the condition. Instead, an esteemed neurologist, Dr. Henry Paulson, is advocating for a more holistic approach, emphasizing the pivotal role of lifestyle and diet in reducing the risk of dementia. With evidence mounting, it is becoming increasingly clear that adopting healthy habits can be the cornerstone in the battle against Alzheimer’s.

The Downfall of Beta-Amyloid-Targeting Drugs

As reported in *Science* on July 21, 2022, the drugs developed to combat beta-amyloid plaque formation have proven ineffective in preventing or treating Alzheimer’s disease. Despite high expectations, these medications have not delivered the desired results, raising concerns about their efficacy.

Dr. Henry Paulson’s Take on Alzheimer’s Prevention

Dr. Henry Paulson, a renowned professor of neurology who heads the Michigan Alzheimer’s Center, offers an alternative perspective. He believes that the emphasis on finding a drug to address Alzheimer’s may not yield the results we hope for in the near future. Instead, he underscores the significance of cultivating healthy daily habits such as maintaining good sleep patterns, adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, fostering social connections, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.

The Cholesterol-Alzheimer’s Connection

A comprehensive 2020 meta-analysis study, featured in *Brain Science*, sheds light on a crucial link between cholesterol levels and Alzheimer’s disease risk. The research revealed that individuals with high total cholesterol, particularly elevated LDL-cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), face a significantly higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. High LDL cholesterol, considered an independent risk factor for Alzheimer’s development, is believed to raise the risk by potentially clogging arteries in the brain and contributing to brain inflammation.

Take Charge of Your Cholesterol Levels

Taking proactive measures to manage cholesterol is paramount. The first step is to be aware of your LDL-cholesterol levels. If your LDL-cholesterol level exceeds 2.0 mmol/L (77 mg/dl), it’s essential to work diligently at eliminating cholesterol-raising foods from your diet. These foods primarily include those high in saturated fat, trans-fats, deep-fried items, and breaded foods. However, even if your cholesterol levels are within the recommended range, it’s wise to limit your intake of these foods for overall health benefits.

Conclusion:

In the battle against Alzheimer’s disease, the focus is shifting from ineffective drug interventions to empowering individuals with the knowledge that their daily choices can significantly impact their risk. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, controlling cholesterol levels, and embracing positive habits, we can take tangible steps toward reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and promoting overall well-being.

References:

  1. [Science](https://www.science.org/content/article/potential-fabrication-research-images-threatens-key-theory-alzheimers-disease)
  2. [Neuroscience News](https://neurosciencenews.com/alzheimers-wrong-ab-21156/)
  3. [Saiz-Vazquez O, et al. “Cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease risk: A Meta-Meta-Analysis.” Brain Sci. 2020; 10(6)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7349210/)
 
Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
 

Dr. Meschino

 

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.