Vitamin E effective treatment in some Liver diseases

Vitamin E found effective in treatment of certain Liver Diseases

PUBLIC RELEASE: 23-APR-2015

Vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) is an effective treatment for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), according to new research. NASH occurs when the liver becomes inflamed due to the accumulation of fat. Over time, persistent inflammation can lead to the formation of fibrous scar tissue in the liver and around its blood vessels, which can eventually cause cirrhosis.Right-click here to download pictures. To help protect your privacy, Outlook prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

A pooled analysis of data from two randomised trials comparing vitamin E versus placebo, and the placebo group from another trial comparing vitamin E use versus non-use, demonstrates that the efficacy of vitamin E is comparable to other treatments for NASH, including pioglitazone, metformin and obeticholic acid. In addition, treatment with vitamin E is associated with significant improvements in both NASH histology (45% vs 22% in those not treated with vitamin E) and resolution of disease (38% vs 20% in those not treated with vitamin E). There was no increase in cardiovascular events and no adverse lipid profiles were observed with vitamin E treatment.

A total of 347 patients (155 treated with vitamin E, 192 not treated with vitamin E) were included in the analysis which compared data from three clinical trials that investigated the efficacy and safety of vitamin E as a treatment for NASH: the PIVENS, TONIC and FLINT trials. Histologic improvement was defined as ? 2 point improvement in NAS with no worsening of fibrosis, and NASH resolution measured effectiveness.

The study supports the use of vitamin E as a treatment for NASH.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-04/eaft-pac042215.php

Testicular cancer link found for muscle-building supplements 

A new study associates taking muscle-building supplements with an increased risk of testicular cancer. Men who used such pills and powders were more likely to have developed testicular cancer than those who did not, especially if they started before age 25, took more than one supplement, or used the supplements for three or more years.

https://news.brown.edu/articles/2015/04/muscles

Natural medicine better than ibuprofen or paracetamol for colds and flu symptoms

Complementary Medicine is better than Ibuprofen or Paracetamol in the prevention, and treatment of respiratory infections (common cold and Flu)

Most people at one time or another will catch a common cold or flu. Many different types of viruses cause these infections and it is these viruses that infect the nose, throat and upper respiratory tract causing pain, congestion and fever.

Common sense tells us that keeping warm and avoiding sudden temperature changes, such as, leaving a warm home or office for the cold outdoors will reduce the chances of catching a cold or flu. Always don warm clothing when moving from a warm to a cold environment as these sudden changes in temperature lower resistance to infection without adequate protection.

Unfortunately many people just continue doing work and play without rest and use analgesics and other cold formula to just “push on through”. Although these may ease the aches and pains associated with respiratory infections they don’t reduce your spreading the cold to others and in fact may worsen the symptoms and increase time needed till recovery. Although in some cases we just may need something to get through an important event taking analgesics may help, but prevention and a reduction of the duration and symptoms of a respiratory infection is the best way and complementary medicine may just have the answer.

There are many herbs, vitamins and minerals that have a positive effect in reducing the incidence, duration and symptoms of respiratory infection and following is factual information on the most commonly used.

The evidence

Paracetamol and Ibuprofen

Paracetamol and or Ibuprofen could prolong the symptoms of respiratory infections

A new study found patients were more likely to come back within a month with worsening symptoms or new symptoms if they were prescribed ibuprofen or ibuprofen with paracetamol for the symptoms of the common cold. Between 50 per cent and 70 per cent of participants in this study who were prescribed ibuprofen or ibuprofen with paracetamol had elongation and worsening of the symptoms that required returning to their doctor.(1)


Vitamin D3

Low vitamin D status is associated with higher rate of respiratory infections

A large study of 18,883 people reported strong association between low blood levels of vitamin D (25OHVitD)and increased respiratory infections. Those with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more recent colds or flu and the risks were even higher for those with chronic respiratory disorders, including asthma and COPD. Those with low vitamin D levels were nearly 40 per cent more likely to have had a respiratory infection than those with adequate vitamin D levels (2).

Other findings support the concept of vitamin D possessing important pleiotropic actions outside of calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. In children, an association of nutritional rickets with respiratory compromise has long been recognized. Epidemiologic studies clearly demonstrate the link between vitamin D deficiency and the increased incidence of respiratory infections (3)

Vitamin D3 supplements found to reduce the incidence of influenza in School children

A recent randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial among School Children in Japan was conducted. The Children were randomly divided into two groups: One group received daily supplements of 1200iu daily of vitamin D3, while the other group received a placebo. The children were then assessed for the incidence of influenza over the 2008 to 2009 winter period.

The study found that the incidence of influenza was 10.8 per cent in the vitamin D3 supplemented group, compared with 18.6 per cent in the placebo group; this reduction was even greater for those who had low vitamin D (25OHVitD), with a 74 per cent reduction in the incidence of influenza.

Also, asthma attacks were significantly reduced in asthmatic children in the vitamin D3 supplemented group(4)


Kaloba

For centuries, the herb Pelargonium sidoides has been traditionally used in South Africa for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The common name for this herb is umckaloabo which is derived from the Zulu language and means “heavy cough”. Today specialised farms using ecological cultivation methods produce P. sidoides.


This herb is now available in Australia from Blackmores in their product  Kaloba® which has been clinically proven to provide relief of acute bronchitis symptoms after 7 days (45% of the patients taking Kaloba® experienced recovery after 7 days compared to 6.4% taking a placebo), it also can help speed up recovery.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C reduces the symptoms and duration of respiratory infections (common cold)

Correct nutrition is also a necessity, we should always endeavour to include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in the daily diet as these are a good source of vitamin C.

Studies and clinical trials have shown that supplementing with vitamin C and vitamin E can help strengthen the immune system reducing the incidence and symptoms of colds and flu (5)

Vitamin C supplementation can start with bottle fed babies. Blackcurrant and rose hip formulas high in vitamin C are readily available. These fruit juice formulas should be included in baby’s daily feeding routine. Children over two years of age can either have a crushed Children's Chewable Vitamin C tablet added to their food or chew one tablet twice daily and adults should take between 1,000 mg and 2,000mg daily. In six trials with participants exposed to short periods of extreme physical or cold stress or both (including marathon runners and skiers) vitamin C reduced the common cold risk by half. (6)

In thirty-one comparisons studies that examined the effect of regular vitamin C  supplementation on common cold duration (9745 episodes). In adults the duration of colds was reduced by 8% (3% to 12%) and in children by 14% (7% to 21%). In children, 1 to 2 g/day vitamin C shortened colds by 18%. The severity of colds was also reduced by regular vitamin C administration(7)

Echinacea

Echinacea found to reduce the incidence   and the duration of respiratory infections

Echinacea is one of the most commonly used herbal products, but controversy exists about its benefit in the prevention and treatment of the common cold. A  meta-analysis evaluating the effect of echinacea on the incidence and duration of the common cold was undertaken. The meta-analysis included   14 studies were where Incidence of the common cold was reported

The results found that Echinacea decreased the odds of developing the common cold by 58% and the duration of a cold by 1·4 days . The authors concluded that published evidence supports echinacea's benefit in decreasing the incidence and duration of the common cold.(8)

Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin found to reduce the incidence of the common cold

Lactoferrin is a compound that is naturally produced in the body by immune cells and it is particularly prevalent in secretions of the upper airways, eyes and stomach.  Bovine lactoferrin supplementation has been shown to boost the activity of certain immune cells. One study found that the total number of cold-associated symptoms reported by participants that received a Lactoferrin/whey compound (Lf/IgF) was significantly less than those in the placebo group. Also, total days sick with a cold and cold severity were reduced over the clinical trial period for Lf/IgF over placebo, but the trend was not significant(9)

Health Department Warning
Call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (Australia) if a child, young person or adult has taken more paracetamol or ibuprofen than is recommended. Paracetamol is often taken by people who intend to harm themselves (suicide attempts). Paracetamol in large doses can cause severe liver damage

Use in the elderly

Ibuprofen should not be taken by adults over the age of 65 without careful consideration of co-morbidities and co-medications because of an increased risk of adverse effects, in particular heart failure, gastro-intestinal ulceration and renal impairment.

Use in pregnancy

Category C: Ibuprofen inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and, when given during the latter part of pregnancy, may cause closure of the foetal ductus arteriosus, foetal renal impairment, inhibition of platelet aggregation and may delay labour and birth. Use of ibuprofen is thus contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy, including the last few days before expected birth



References;

1.        P. Little, M. Moore, et al. Ibuprofen, paracetamol, and steam for patients with respiratory tract infections in primary care: pragmatic randomised factorial trial. BMJ, 2013; 347 (oct25 2)

2.        Adit A. Ginde, MD, MPH; Jonathan M. et al.  Association Between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level and Upper Respiratory Tract Infection in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Arch.  Intern.  Med. 2009;169(4):384-390.

3.        Walker VP, Modlin RL.  The vitamin D connection to pediatric infections and immune function. Pediatr Res. 2009 May;65(5 Pt 2):106R-113R.

4.         Urashima U, et al. “Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, March 10, 2010.

5.        Hemila, H. “Vitamin C and the Common Cold” Br. J. Nutrition” 67(1);316, January, 1992

6.        Hemilä H, et al. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007

7.         Harri Hemilä1, et al. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold Editorial Group: Cochrane Acute Respiratory Infections Group, Published Online: 31 JAN 2013

8.        Sachin A Shah PharmD a c, Stephen Sander PharmD et al. Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis The Lancet Infectious Diseases, Volume 7, Issue 7, Pages 473 - 480, July 2007

9.        Luis Vitettaemail, Samantha Coulson et al, The clinical efficacy of a bovine lactoferrin/whey protein Ig-rich fraction (Lf/IgF) for the common cold: A double blind randomized study, Complementary Therapies in Medicine Volume 21, Issue 3 , Pages 164-171, June 2013

Memory Loss feeling fuzzy and unfocused? it could be associated with taking statins

Memory Loss feeling fuzzy and unfocused? it could be associated with taking statins

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that statin drugs can lead to “memory problems.” But some experts have challenged that view, and there’s no firm consensus on statins’ relationship to memory.

But there are more potential side-effects that the FDA warns about.

Reports of Memory Loss

FDA has been investigating reports of cognitive impairment from statin use for several years. The agency has reviewed databases that record reports of bad reactions to drugs and statin clinical trials that included assessments of cognitive function.

The reports about memory loss, forgetfulness and confusion span all statin products and all age groups. 

Amy G. Egan, M.D., M.P.H., deputy director for safety in FDA’s Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology Products (DMEP)says these experiences are rare but that those affected often report feeling “fuzzy” or unfocused in their thinking.

In general, the symptoms were not serious and were reversible within a few weeks after the patient stopped using the statin. Some people affected in this way had been taking the medicine for a day; others had been taking it for years.

What should patients do if they fear that statin use could be clouding their thinking? “Talk to your health care professional,” Egan says. “Don’t stop taking the medication; the consequences to your heart could be far greater.”

Fat and the Brain

It is not crazy to connect cholesterol-modifying drugs with cognition; after all, one quarter of the body’s cholesterol is found in the brain. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that, among other things, provides structure to the body’s cell membranes. High levels of cholesterol in the blood create a risk for heart disease, because the molecules that transport cholesterol can damage arteries and cause blockages. 

In the brain, however, cholesterol plays a crucial role in the formation of neuronal connections—the vital links that underlie memory and learning. Quick thinking and rapid reaction times depend on cholesterol, too, because the waxy molecules are the building blocks of the sheaths that insulate neurons and speed up electrical transmissions. 

Risk of cataracts may rise with statin use

In published researchers analyzed data from the British Columbia Ministry of Health databases from 2000-2007. Researchers identified patients taking statins for more than a year prior to an opthalmology exam, and found a 27 percent increased risk of cataracts that required surgery.

The Risk of Diabetes

Diabetes occurs because of defects in the body’s ability to produce or use insulin—a hormone needed to convert food into energy. If the pancreas doesn't make enough insulin or if cells do not respond appropriately to insulin, blood sugar levels in the blood get too high, which can lead to serious health problems.

The FDA reports that a small increased risk of raised blood sugar levels and the development of Type 2 diabetes have been reported with the use of statins.

However, A  study involving 153, 840 women and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that women between the ages of 50 – 79 who took statin medicines were 48 percent more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes

The Potential for Muscle Damage

Some drugs interact with statins in a way that increases the risk of muscle injury called myopathy, characterized by unexplained muscle weakness or pain. Egan explains that some new drugs are broken down (metabolized) through the same pathways in the body that statins follow. This increases both the amount of statin in the blood and the risk of muscle injury.

FDA is revising the drug label for Lovastatin to clarify the risk of myopathy. The label will reflect what drugs should not be taken at the same time, and the maximum lovastatin dose if it is not possible to avoid use of those other drugs.

If you suffer any illness or side effect of medication inform and talk to your healthcare professional. Also, patients and health care professionals should report negative side effects from statin or other drug use to FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program. and to the TGA in Australia.

References

1. Parts of this article appear on FDA's Consumer Update page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.

2. Statin Use and Risk for Cataract: A Nested Case-Control Study of Two Populations in Canada and the United States Canadian Journal of Cardiology, Volume 30, Issue 12 (December 2014),

3. Statin Use and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus in Postmenopausal Women in the Women's Health Initiative. January 23, 2012, Vol 172, No. 2

Prostate Health

TURMERIC (Curcumin) and Soy; their relationship to Prostate Health

Each year around 3,300 Australian men die of prostate cancer making prostate cancer Australia's second cancer killer among men and this matches the impact of breast cancer on women.

Current therapies for prostate cancer include surgical removal of the prostate, chemotherapy, radiation and/or freezing the tumour however, there are often side-effects including incontinence and impotence (Wang Q, et al. Cancer Research, Dec 2011) Unfortunately success is dependant on a number of factors that include age, early diagnosis and type and progression of the cancer (Loke T. W, et al. BJUI 2011). Solar radiation is a catalyst for vitamin D conversion by humans and is therefore an important factor in dete

There is emerging evidence that changes in lifestyle, diet, the addition of dietary and herbal supplements and environmental factors may contribute to a reduction in the risk of developing prostate cancer and benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate). In this issue these influences are discussed.

Following are two dietary changes that may help.

India has one of the lowest rates of breast and prostate cancer - and one of the highest levels of turmeric consumption - in the world. While clearly not proving cause and effect, this inverse relationship between breast and prostate cancer and turmeric consumption is of interest given existing scientific evidence that one particular chemical found in turmeric, curcumin, can prevent cancer cell growth. (Indo American News on September 2, 2011)

Prostate cancer is an uncommon cancer in the developing countries affecting 4-5 men per 100,000 population in India. The rate of prostate cancer per 100,000 population in the US is 85 (20 fold difference versus men living in India)

Curcumin causes a marked decrease in the extent of cell proliferation and a significant increase in the extent of apoptosis and  could be a potentially therapeutic anti-cancer agent, as it significantly inhibits prostate cancer growth, and has the potential to prevent the progression of this cancer to its hormone refractory state. (Dorai T, et al. Prostate. 2001 Jun 1;47(4):293-303)

Also, Curcumin acts as a chemosensitizer and radiosensitizer for tumours and in some cases, curcumin has also been shown to protect normal organs such as liver, kidney, oral mucosa, and heart from chemotherapy and radiotherapy-induced toxicity. (Goel A, et al. Nutr Cancer. 2010;62(7):919-30)

As discuss before there is good evidence that soy isoflavones have a positive effect on the incidence and progression of prostate disease and could and as Indian diets also contain Tufu does the combination of soy and turmeric supplements add to the positive data?

A randomised double-blind study of eighty five men examined the expression of androgen receptor and PSA before and after treatment of isoflavones and/or curcumin.

At the six month follow up, production of PSA was markedly decreased by the combined treatment of isoflavones and curcumin in prostate cancer cell line. The expression of the androgen receptor was also suppressed by the treatment. In clinical trials, PSA levels decreased in the patients supplemented with soy isoflavones and curcumin.

The authors of the study concluded that soy-isoflavones and curcumin could modulate serum PSA levels. Curcumin presumably synergizes with isoflavones to suppress PSA production in prostate cells through the anti-androgen effects. (Ide H, et al. Prostate. 2010 Jul 1;70(10):1127-3

Findings  presented at the Ninth Annual American Association for Cancer Research Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Conference  reported that Genistein, a natural chemical found in soy inhibit prostate cancer cells from becoming metastatic and spreading to other parts of the body. So far the cancer therapy drug has worked in preclinical animal studies and now shows benefits in humans with prostate cancer.(News Letter, Northwestern University, November, 2010)

The phytoestrogen biochanin A, found in red clover, significantly reduced tumour size and incidence. Studies indicate that biochanin A inhibits prostate cancer cell growth through induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Biochanin A-regulated genes suggest multiple pathways of action. Biochanin A inhibits the incidence and growth of LNCaP xenograft tumours in athymic mice (Rice L et al, Prostate 2002 Aug 1;52(3):201-12).

Other studies have confirmed these results; before surgery, 20 men consumed 160 mg/day of red clover-derived dietary isoflavones, containing a mixture of genistein, daidzein, formononetin, and biochanin A. Serum PSA, testosterone, and biochemical factors were measured, and clinical and pathological parameters were recorded.

The incidence of cell death in prostate tumour cells from radical prostatectomy specimens was compared between 18 treated and 18 untreated control tissues. There were no significant differences between pre- and post treatment serum PSA, Gleason score, serum testosterone, or biochemical factors in the treated patients. Apoptosis in radical prostatectomy specimens from treated patients was significantly higher than in control subjects, specifically in regions of low to moderate-grade cancer (Gleason grade 1-3). No adverse events related to the treatment were reported. This report suggests that dietary isoflavones may halt the progression of prostate cancer by inducing apoptosis in low to moderate-grade tumours, potentially contributing to the lower incidence of clinically significant disease.

(Zhau R et al, Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2002 Dec;11(12):1689-96)..

Soy may also have other anti-cancer actions in addition to the isoflavones. Soy beans contain the substance, Bowman-Birk Protease Inhibitor (BBI). Bowman-Birk inhibitor has demonstrated anticarcinogenic activity in both in vitro and in vivo studies(Prostate. 2002 Feb 1;50(2):125-33) BBI derived from soybeans in traditional Japanese diets might underpin low cancer mortality rates in Japan (Manoj H. et al, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012; 60 (12): 3135).

This information is for education purposes only and does not replace the advice given by your health care professional.

Taking chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate found to reduce pain in OA of knee as well as COX-2 drugs (celecoxib) the natural way

Helping Arthritis the Natural Way

Combined chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine for painful knee osteoarthritis: a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, non-inferiority trial versus celecoxib

Abstract

Objectives To compare the efficacy and safety of chondroitin sulfate plus glucosamine hydrochloride (CS+GH) versus celecoxib in patients with knee osteoarthritis and severe pain.

Methods Double-blind Multicentre Osteoarthritis interVEntion trial with SYSADOA (MOVES) conducted in France, Germany, Poland and Spain evaluating treatment with CS+GH versus celecoxib in 606 patients with Kellgren and Lawrence grades 2–3 knee osteoarthritis and moderate-to-severe pain (Western Ontario and McMaster osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) score ≥301; 0–500 scale). Patients were randomised to receive 400 mg CS plus 500 mg GH three times a day or 200 mg celecoxib every day for 6 months. The primary outcome was the mean decrease in WOMAC pain from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes included WOMAC function and stiffness, visual analogue scale for pain, presence of joint swelling/effusion, rescue medication consumption, Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials and Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OMERACT-OARSI) criteria and EuroQoL-5D.

Results The adjusted mean change (95% CI) in WOMAC pain was −185.7 (−200.3 to −171.1) (50.1% decrease) with CS+GH and −186.8 (−201.7 to −171.9) (50.2% decrease) with celecoxib, meeting the non-inferiority margin of −40: −1.11 (−22.0 to 19.8; p=0.92). All sensitivity analyses were consistent with that result. At 6 months, 79.7% of patients in the combination group and 79.2% in the celecoxib group fulfilled OMERACT-OARSI criteria. Both groups elicited a reduction >50% in the presence of joint swelling; a similar reduction was seen for effusion. No differences were observed for the other secondary outcomes. Adverse events were low and similarly distributed between groups.

Conclusions CS+GH has comparable efficacy to celecoxib in reducing pain, stiffness, functional limitation and joint swelling/effusion after 6 months in patients with painful knee osteoarthritis, with a good safety profile.

Marc C Hochberg1, 

Johanne Martel-Pelletier et al,

Ann Rheum Dis doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-206792

• Abstract

Send to:

Drugs Aging. 2007;24(7):573-80.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate as therapeutic agents for knee and hip osteoarthritis.

Bruyere O1, Reginster JY.

Author information

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is a public health problem throughout the world. Several entities have been carefully investigated for the symptomatic and structural management of OA. This review evaluates published studies of the effect of glucosamine salts and chondroitin sulfate preparations on the progression of knee or hip OA. Despite multiple double-blind, controlled clinical trials of the use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in OA, controversy regarding the efficacy of these agents with respect to symptomatic improvement remains. Several potential confounders, including placebo response, use of prescription medicines versus over-the-counter pills or food supplements, or use of glucosamine sulfate versus glucosamine hydrochloride, may have relevance when attempting to interpret the seemingly contradictory results of different clinical trials. The National Institutes of Health-sponsored GAIT (Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial) compared placebo, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate and celecoxib in a parallel, blinded 6-month multicentre study of patients with knee OA. This trial showed that glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate alone or in combination did not reduce pain effectively in the overall group of patients with OA of the knee. However, exploratory analyses suggest that the combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate may be effective in the subgroup of patients with moderate-to-severe knee pain. For decades, the traditional pharmacological management of OA has been mainly symptomatic. However, in recent years, several randomised controlled studies have assessed the structure-modifying effect of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate using plain radiography to measure joint space narrowing over years. There is some evidence to suggest a structure-modifying effect of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate. On the basis of the results of recent randomised controlled trials and meta-analyses, we can conclude that glucosamine sulfate (but not glucosamine hydrochloride) and chondroitin sulfate have small-to-moderate symptomatic efficacy in OA, although this is still debated. With respect to the structure-modifying effect, there is compelling evidence that glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate may interfere with progression of OA.

Brain Active helps improve performance on sustained attention and working memory tasks, compared with placebo.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE& MEMORY

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for around 50 per cent of all senile dementia sufferers and without doubt, as we grow older, this form of dementia is the most dreadful. This disease is distinguished by a steady and progressive loss of memory due to the deterioration of brain function and wasting. This deterioration is also associated with the presence of tangles of fibres and plaques within the brain nerve cells.

Alzheimer’s disease may begin at any age after forty but is most likely to affect individuals over fifty years of age. Over the years there has been a better understanding of this disease, but with all our modern technology and knowledge, modern medicine still has no answer to its treatment and/or cause.

There are many theories regarding the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, ranging from genetic deficiencies to slow acting viruses and although these may indeed have merit, I believe that nutritional deficiencies and toxic mineral accumulation over the years may be the key to the cause of both Alzheimer’s disease and other types of senile dementia.

Eating correctly from a variety of foods each day is a must because the diet is the main source of essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals needed to maintain a healthy body and mind. Many studies have shown that patients suffering from dementia are deficient in one or more of the important vitamins or minerals and if their levels are too low the result may be dementia.

Dietary supplementation with antioxidants including beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) vitamins C, folic acid and E and the minerals zinc and selenium could be vital in protecting the brain from free radical damage, a possible cause of dementia and premature ageing.

Vitamin E has been shown to be deficient in nearly 60 per cent of Alzheimer’s patients. This essential vitamin is a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E also helps to maintain a healthy vascular system and reduces the viscosity (thickness) of the blood, reducing the incidence of blood clots in the brain, a major cause of CVA (stroke).

Supplementing with vitamin E may help prevent the intellectual decline that can come with aging. Researchers reported that among 1,800 adults ages 50 to 75, those with higher vitamin E levels were less likely to have low scores on a standardized test of intellectual capacity. Low scores, they noted, indicate intellectual decline and possible dementia such as Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder marked by memory loss, confusion and problems with perception.

The effect of vitamin E on the study subjects' intellectual function was weak but consistent, according to researchers led by Dr. Reinhold Schmidt of Karl-Franzens University in Graz, Austria. After they accounted for other factors such as age, education level, smoking status and cholesterol levels, the relationship between vitamin E and intellectual capacity remained (Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1998;46:1407-10).

The narrowing and hardening of the arteries leading to, or in the brain can cause a reduction of blood flow and oxygen to the brain, and this is a major cause of senile dementia. By supplementing the diet with an antioxidant formula containing natural beta-carotene, vitamins C, E, B6, B12 and folic acid, along with the minerals zinc and selenium, will ensure that these important nutrients are included in your daily diet that may help promote a healthy vascular system.

B Vitamins

Long-term supplementation of daily folic acid and vitamin B-12 was found to promote improvements in cognitive functioning after 24 months, particularly in immediate and delayed memory performance (Walker, G, et al. Am J Clin Nutr January 2012 vol. 95 no. 1 194-203).

Vitamin D3

A study of four hundred and ninety-eight community-dwelling women found higher dietary intake of vitamin D was associated with a lower risk of developing Alzhiemer’s Disease  (Annweiler, C. et al.  Higher Vitamin D Dietary Intake Is Associated With Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease: A 7-Year Follow-up. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci (2012).

This was also confirmed in a Meta-analysis of 37 studies where the authors concluded lower vitamin D concentrations are associated with poorer cognitive function and a higher risk of AD (Balion, C. et al. Vitamin D, cognition, and dementia A systematic review and meta-analysis Neurology September 25, 2012 vol. 79 no. 13 1397-1405)

Herbs

In the treatment and prevention of senile dementia the herbs Ginkgo biloba, Ginseng and Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) have been shown to be of benefit. Clinical studies have found that the ancient herb Ginkgo biloba (maidenhair tree) has a positive effect on the mental performance and vigilance of the elderly. This herb also helps to improve the memory by increasing the blood flow to the brain and its uptake of carbohydrates. In a meta-analysis of more than 50, English and non-English articles regarding Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo, found a significant effect in the improvement of cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease patients (Oken B S, et al, Arch Neurol, Nov, 1998;55:1409-1415). Ginkgo is available from health food stores and pharmacies and could be valuable in the treatment and prevention of many types of dementia including Alzheimer's disease.

The herb Ginseng was valued more than gold by the ancient Chinese as it was aid to slow down the ageing process, improve the memory, the concentration and the zest for life. Ginseng has undergone many clinical trials, the results of which indicate that the Chinese were correct in their evaluation of this ancient and valuable herb.

Interesting new evidence about the herb rosemary, the herb of remembrance, has come to light. Rosemary contains at least five acelycholinesterase inhibitors, these inhibitors may prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter that's breakdown is also thought to be associated with the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This herb also contains about 12 phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties. Studies are now under way, and the results could show that by using a little rosemary oil in the bath or on the skin each day may slow or stop the progress of Alzheimer's disease.

The herb Turmeric has been found to have positive effects on brain function. Turmeric contains curcumin that possesses many properties which may prevent or ameliorate pathological processes underlying age-related cognitive decline, dementia or mood disorders. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the acute (1 and 3 h after a single dose), chronic (4 weeks) and acute-on-chronic (1 and 3 h after single dose following chronic treatment) effects of solid lipid curcumin formulation (Blackmores Brian Active contains 400 mg as Longvida®) on cognitive function, mood and blood biomarkers in 60 healthy adults aged 60–85.

One hour after administration curcumin significantly improved performance on sustained attention and working memory tasks, compared with placebo. Working memory and mood (general fatigue and change in state calmness, contentedness and fatigue induced by psychological stress) were significantly better following chronic treatment. A significant acute-on-chronic treatment effect on alertness and contentedness was also observed. (Katherine HM Cox et al. Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population J Psychopharmacol October 2, 2014 0269881114552744)

Garlic has been used as a medicinal and culinary herb since ancient times and is a valuable cardiovascular tonic. Studies have shown again that history was correct in the evaluation of this herb over the centuries. The action of fresh or freeze-dried garlic can be beneficial in many ways. Investigations into garlic show that when it is taken on a regular basis it can help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure which can be responsible for strokes and diseases such as hardening and narrowing of the arteries, the known cause of dementia.

Garlic should be included in the daily diet, but if the smell is a problem look for a garlic supplement that has an enteric coating that allows the garlic to be ingested in the intestine and not the stomach resulting in all the advantages of the whole garlic herb without the smell.

Fish oil

A 12-month, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study using concentrated fish oil supplementation was undertaken. The fish oil supplemented group showed significant improvement in short-term and working memory, immediate verbal memory and delayed recall capability. Also, after a 12-month follow-up the fish oil supplemented group had a significantly memory (Lee, L. et al. Docosahexaenoic acid-concentrated fish oil supplementation in subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI): a 12-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, Psychopharmacology August 2012)

Aluminium

An increase in aluminium levels has been detected in the brain cells of patients who suffer Alzheimer’s disease; many researchers believe that aluminium could be a factor in relation to the cause of the disease.

Some of these studies question the use of aluminium based antacids and deodorants as these can cause elevated aluminium levels within the body. The herb slippery elm is very effective in relieving the symptoms of gastric reflux, heartburn and ulcer pain; symptoms that many people would seek to relieve by using aluminium-based antacids. There are also alternatives to aluminium-based deodorants that are available from health food stores; choose one of these instead.

Soy Lecithin

Phosphatidylserine, a chemical derived from soy lecithin may help alleviate age-related decline in memory, leaning and concentration.  Phosphatidylserine is the building block of cell membranes, and is most concentrated in the brain. As we age we produce less of this important brain chemical, therefore we may need to take it as a supplement in order to maintain correct levels. Keep active both mentally and physically; the mind needs exercise as well.

Prevention is always better than cure so remember it I s never too early to start.

FIVE STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY

1. Eat a well-balanced diet, high in fibre and low in animal fats.

2. Supplement with an antioxidant formula daily.

3. Include ginkgo plus garlic and ginseng in the daily diet.

4. Avoid the use of all aluminium products.

5. Keep active both mentally and physically; the mind needs exercise too. Remember it’s never too early to start; prevention is always better than cure.

SUPPLEMENTS

Blackmores Brain Active                      1 capsule daily

Ginkgo Forte 2000                                            1 tablet three times daily

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)                                   2.4g (eq.To fresh plant) daily

Containing bacosides A 25mg

BIO ACE Excel Antioxidant Complex                   1 tablet morning and night

Fish Oil 1000mg                                                   3 capsules daily

Folic acid                                                             500mcg daily

Phosphatidylserine                                              20mg

Vitamin D3                                                           1,000iu daily