A combination of curcumin (a compound found in the curry spice turmeric) and vitamin D could help protect against Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study.
For the study, researchers worked with blood samples from nine people with Alzheimer's disease, one person with mild cognitive impairment, and three healthy subjects. In tests on isolated cells from the blood samples, the scientists discovered that curcumin and vitamin D together helped clear away amyloid beta (a substance that forms the brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease).
Past research shows that reseveratrol (a compound found in grapes and red wine) may help reduce levels of amyloid beta as well. Sticking to a healthy diet high in whole foods (especially fruits and vegetables), exercising regularly, and keeping mentally and socially active as you age may also help stave off Alzheimer's disease.
Any research that provides additional insight into Alzheimer’s is critical to finding a cure.
It is also important for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s to consider participating in clinical studies. One such study is the ICARA Study (www.icarastudy.com), whose goal is to explore if an investigational drug, called Bapineuzumab, can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Clinical studies that test new treatments are the best chance we have for fighting this disease.
Vitamin D huh? Wow I haven’t heard about that one, but it seems simple enough to do to help prevent memory loss. I also know that along with eating the right foods and getting enough vitamins it is very important to keep the brain stimulated with daily puzzles and brain challenges. Studies have shown that playing memory games help delay the memory loss process!