Alzheimer’s and dementia are not different entities; rather, Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia, the most common type, to be accurate. While there aren't supplements that can treat Alzheimer's, there are supplements that can support cognitive decline and help alleviate the symptoms of this disease. 

It is also important to note that Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) is not a disease of old age. Alzheimer's disease usually affects people over 65. Its symptoms extend beyond normal age-related cognitive decline.

Some people develop Alzheimer's disease in their 40s or 50s. This form is called early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's progresses through pre-demential, early, moderate, and advanced stages. Alzheimer’s does eventually lead to death.

What Are Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer’s is usually a diagnosis of exclusion. Healthcare providers must rule out other dementias, stroke, arteriosclerosis, and other possible causes before diagnosing Alzheimer's disease.

Symptoms usually begin with short-term memory loss, often accompanied by fatigue and depression. Initially, AD sufferers have trouble remembering names and frequently lose valuable objects. Symptoms progress to confusion, disorientation, difficulty in speaking and coordinating behaviour, and personality changes, often including both physical and emotional outbursts. 

As the disease further progresses, these individuals will have trouble dressing, bathing and toileting by themselves. Sleep patterns typically change, as they have a hard time distinguishing between day and night. Eventually, AD sufferers lose the ability to carry on a conversation or control movement.

What Causes of Alzheimer’s Dementia?

Brain cell loss and atrophy cause the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. What causes this death? At the moment, we can only speculate. Sadly, research has yet to find any conclusive results. Clinical trials are showing inconsistent and inconclusive results. Some of the more well-developed theories include genetic predisposition, environmental toxicity (aluminum, mercury, silicon, ammonia), autoimmune disorders and nutritional deficiencies. Some aspects of lifestyle, outside of diet, have also warranted further investigation.

Plaques and Tangles

One commonality in almost all Alzheimer’s patients is the observation of plaques and tangles in the brain. Plaques are deposits of a protein fragment, called beta amyloid, that builds up in the spaces between the nerve cells. Tau protein forms twisted fibers called tangles inside brain cells. Plaques and tangles increase significantly in Alzheimer's disease. They usually appear first in memory-related brain regions before spreading.

Natural Changes & SupplementsTo Delay Alzheimer's & Boost Brain Health

Delaying Disease Onset and Progression

Although we need to be very cautious when using the term treatment, there are some promising findings in terms of delaying AD progression. Epidemiological studies have proposed relationships between certain modifiable factors, such as diet, cardiovascular risk, natural health products, or intellectual activities, among others, and a population's likelihood of developing AD.

Diet & Supplements For Brain & Alzheimer's Support

Antioxidants such as ginkgo biloba, vitamins E and C, as well as CoQ10, phosphatidyl serine, DHA and EPA from fish oil, lecithin and vinpocetine, all play an important role in cognitive function and brain health. Making sure to eat a well-rounded diet, rich in these items, or supplementing with these specific nutrients when necessary may help to both protect against the development and/or slow the progression of AD and age-related cognitive decline.

Exercise Your Brain

The way we live our lives and the activities that we do can help to decrease Alzheimer’s risk. Regular and supportive social interaction, as well as exercise, are lifestyle elements that improve quality of life while also reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Cognitive Reserve Theory, the theory that certain activities create a cognitive reserve through greater neural functioning efficiency, which delays the onset of brain diseases and manifestations of dementia, points to some ways in which people can reduce their Alzheimer’s risk. Intellectual pursuits such as playing board games and puzzles, reading and playing musical instruments may reduce risk and support efficient neural functioning. Even learning a second language later in life can be beneficial.

MCT Supplements and Alzheimer’s

One possible cause of degenerating brain function has to do with the nutritional status of the brain itself - more specifically, our brain’s ability to utilize glucose. There is some research to suggest that individuals with Alzheimer’s are no longer able to use glucose as a primary fuel source, and therefore, the brain is literally malnourished and begins to atrophy or die. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s), particularly high in non-hydrogenated virgin coconut oil, are one possible solution. Ketones produced from MCT metabolism may provide brain cells with an alternative energy source to glucose.

Heavy Metal Detox

Some believe that certain metals or environmental toxins may play a huge role in AD development and progression. Aluminum and Mercury are among a number of brain “toxins’ that have been receiving a lot of attention. 

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your exposure. Avoid using aluminum in cooking and food preparation (foil, utensils, cookware), cut out ‘pop’ or cola, especially from aluminum cans. Read labels and be cautious of antiperspirants and antacids that contain significant levels of aluminum. People with mercury dental fillings may choose to discuss mercury exposure with their healthcare provider. Evidence linking mercury exposure to Alzheimer's disease remains inconclusive.

Twice a year, give your body a break with a 2-3 week heavy metal detox, which includes eating organic to reduce toxin exposure. Take a look at our article on heavy metal toxicity for more information and methods of treatment.