Nutrition. Vitamins. You.
Written by Dr.Claire Arcidiacono, ND For further questions or concerns email me at [email protected]† This will be our last blog on this topic before we have our review on memory and brain health. I wanted to take a moment to talk about typical memory changes …
Written by: Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND For further questions or concerns email me at [email protected]† Alzheimer’s is a complex disease with many risk factors. It is a disease that affects more than just the person who is afflicted with the illness. For the care takers …
Written by: Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND
For further questions or concerns email me at [email protected]†
Dementia is a complex issue that concerns many people. Dementia is a complex topic because not only is it considered by many to be a neurocognitive disorder on its own, but it is also a part of many other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease. In this blog I will review what is dementia? What are the signs and symptoms of dementia? What are the risk factors? What can you do if anything to help with the symptoms? And perhaps most importantly is there anything we can do to reduce the risk factors especially for those with a family history of dementia? †
Dementia is typically defined as a disorder that manifests as a set of related symptoms. In basic terms dementia is described as an acquired brain disorder where there is a decline in cognitive function. (1) There are a number of disorders that are associated with dementia. The most common disorder associated with dementia is Alzheimer disease. (2) Other disorders that are associated with dementia include Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, vascular disease, frontotemporal lobar dementia, and Lewy body disease and prion disorders. † (3)
Dementia can also occur when there are certain underlying conditions as I reviewed in my prior blogs. These include endocrine disorders as well as certain nutritional deficiencies. For more information on disorders that can mimic dementia please see my prior blogs. †
To start with Dementia as we know affects memory. However, in addition to affecting memory it can also affect behaviors. Dementia can lead to aggression, agitation, restlessness as well as sexual dis-inhibition. Dementia can also cause what is considered to be inappropriate behavior such as public outbursts of anger. In addition to behavioral changes dementia can also lead to psychological symptoms such as depression, apathy, anxiety, hallucinations and delusions. Over time language, attention and our problem-solving abilities also decline. Perception and orientation also decline over time. (4) Those with dementia are also more like to suffer incontinence (both urinary and fecal). (5) To sum things up – dementia affects our memory, attention, reasoning, communication and perception. Signs to look out for can include forgetting names and people and places. Using the wrong word for an object and having trouble completing tasks are also things to be on the lookout for especially in those with a family history. † (6)
Dementia is usually broken down into 4 stages. These stages include pre-dementia, early, middle and late stage. These stages are based on the severity of the functional and cognitive impairment. Using tests such as the mini mental state exam can help determine which stage of dementia is present. † (7)
What are the risk factors for dementia? The presence of any of the aforementioned conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional deficiencies and alcoholism are all risk factors. (8) Additionally high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, diabetes, lack of activity are all risk factors. (9) Traumatic brain injuries also increase the risk of dementia. (10) Other more socioeconomic risk factors include conditions such as lower levels of education, depression, low social interactions, loneliness and having a neurotic personality. (11) Studies have also found that having vision and hearing impairments increase the risk of dementia. Frailty may also increase the risk of dementia. † (12)
New research has found a link between oral bacteria and the risk of developing dementia. (13) Herpes simplex virus has also been confirmed to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease and therefore dementia. † (14)
As I’ve said before certain deficiencies are a huge risk factor for developing dementia. Additionally, if there is gluten sensitivity then gluten is also a risk factor. (15) Newer studies have also found that symbiosis and increased gut permeability are also risk factors for dementia. In other words, digestive concerns such as leaky gut, inflammatory bowel diseases and an overgrowth of bad bacteria are all risk factors for dementia. (16) Last but not least family history is also a risk factor for developing signs of dementia. † (17)
ICYMI:THE BRAIN: BLOOD TESTS & MORE, PART 1>>READ NOW!
While no studies have as yet found a cure for dementia there are certain nutrients that studies find that are helpful for our brain and memory.†
LIFESTYLE CHANGES & NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT
While Invite has an extensive line of supplements I have chosen the ones that in my clinical experience are the most helpful. In our next blog we will talk about Alzheimer disease! †
ICYMI:KEEPING THE BRAIN CLEAN WITH RESVERATROL, INVITE HEALTH PODCAST, EPISODE 645>>LISTEN NOW!
REFERENCES
Amanda Williams MD, MPH goes in depth about how ginkgo biloba can be a good addition to your daily supplement routine
Our Cognition Hx formulation is filled with nutrients that have been shown to support memory and the brain, but these ingredients, including ginkgo biloba and NADH, are also beneficial for immune health.