Brain basics

Q: Alzheimer’s is a pretty hot topic in the news recently, but I have trouble keeping all of the advice straight. What do you think is the best way to prevent the disease?

Dr. Wright: There are quite a few natural approaches for keeping your mind sharp well into old-age, and while each of them could very well fill a book all its own, here’s a quick outline of the top five recommendations I make to Tahoma Clinic clients who are trying to prevent Alzheimer’s disease:

Eliminate refined sugar and refined carbohydrates from your diet — especially if you have Type II diabetes in your family or if you are insulin resistant. Research has suggested that insulin resistance raises your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Research has also linked elevated homocysteine levels with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Keep your homocysteine levels down by taking B-complex vitamins and/or a multiple vitamin containing vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid.

Take 1 Tbsp of fish oil per day. This natural anti- inflammatory contains omega-3 fatty acids that help repair brain cell membranes.

There is ample evidence indicating that adequate levels of estrogen or testosterone could allow you to dramatically reduce your Alzheimer’s disease risk. Consider using bio-identical hormones to keep your levels of estrogen or testosterone where they need to be. Refer to the September 2002 issue for more information on bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

Research shows that the mineral lithium has strong potential to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. For more in-depth detail on the topic, subscribers can see the 2008 issue of Nutrition & Healing.