Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, incurable and irreversible neurodegenerative disease that alters mental functions. It was described for the first time in 1906 by a German doctor who gave it its name. The slow degradation of neuronal functions is manifested in the first stage by the loss of short-term memory. More severe cognitive impairment then results in confusion, irritability, aggression, loss of executive functions (organization, planning), loss of language and finally death. This disease disrupts the life of the patient but also that of his direct entourage.
In Belgium, it affects more than 9% of people over the age of 65 and two out of three patients are women. This figure rises to more than 26% after 85 years of age and even more than 34% for people over 90 years of age. Estimates for the year 2030 in our country are that there will be more than 251,000 cases according to the Alzheimer Research Foundation (ARF).
The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, a U.S. government agency for public health protection) says that Alzheimer's disease is the 6thrst cause of death in the United States. Some more alarming neurological studies put it in 3rd position .
Sugar and sedentary life: a Machiavellian duo
While the exact causes are still unclear, a combination of inflammatory, digestive and environmental factors may be correlated with an increased risk of developing the disease.
A refined, ultra-processed diet, combined with a high consumption of sugar, gradually leads to insulin resistance, and therefore to an increase in blood sugar levels. Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension are well known consequences resulting from the concomitance of several factors. These diseases of civilization increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. According to recent studies, certain parts of the brain, deprived of glucose as a result of insulin resistance, correspond to the areas affected by the disease.
Regular physical activity also plays a role in maintaining cognitive function, even when the disease is diagnosed. Sport promotes the growth and connectivity of brain cells. In addition to reducing insulin resistance, moving helps to relax hypertensive patients and stimulates intellectual functions. The sedentary lifestyle has not yet shown any benefit...
A saving grace
For people suffering from Alzheimer's disease, a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet seems to work. The first source of energy would therefore not come from glucose as recommended for a traditional balanced diet, but rather from fats and proteins. The low carb or even ketogenic diet must be followed by a health specialist to avoid any vitamin and mineral deficiency. Quality, unprocessed food will always be the first choice. It is the only way to produce energy, to supply your cells with quality fuel and thus to the mitochondria.
D for disability
Vitamin D deficiency is also linked to the development of the disease, according to The Scotland Dementia Research Center. This fat-soluble vitamin plays a key role at many levels: immunity, inflammation, calcium absorption but also at the cerebral level. Elderly people deficient in vitamin D, carotenoids and polyunsaturated fatty acids have a 4-fold higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
The waves: all irradiated
Electromagnetic pollution also poisons our cells: wi-fi, mobile phones, relay antennas invade private and professional spaces with their share of brain pollution. Some measures can nevertheless limit exposure such as turning off wi-fi and mobile phones at night, putting on headphones when making a phone call, avoiding making phone calls in the car,... It is difficult to live away from all these types of pollution that we are often involuntarily subjected to.
In the intimacy of the microbiota
People with neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, have higher levels of inflammatory bacteria than healthy people. We must not underestimate the links between the brain and the intestine and the damaging consequences of a poor and badly maintained flora. Prescriptions of antibiotics galore, drugs of all kinds, combined with a diet poor in fiber and nutrients accentuate the deleterious effects of a deficient and pro-inflammatory flora. A flora is nourished and maintained on a daily basis. A rich and balanced microbiota is a passport to physical and emotional well-being.
Alzheimer's disease is therefore multifactorial. You may have inherited your parents' genetic weaknesses without developing the disease. It is not a fatality.
While many factors are in your hands, such as your diet, the quality of your food and your lifestyle, other elements are beyond our control and cannot be modified. Stimulate your memory and your brain daily. Read, learn, sharpen your knowledge in your favorite fields, adopt a healthy and less stressful lifestyle will allow you to fight against this plague.
An anti-inflammatory supplementation is interesting for reducing premature aging and therefore premature loss of brain cells. Studies have shown that curcumin and resveratrol help counter the effects of brain aging, especially if these 2 products are taken in a more absorbable form such as a liposome. Liposomal turmeric resveratrol combines these compounds and exhibits a potent synergy that reduces the deleterious effects of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23276553
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1028455912001817#bbib81