Alzheimer’s disease is a dreadful condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s incurable and leads to a slow decline in cognitive ability and memory. But what if there was a way to slow down that decline, and help those suffering from Alzheimer’s maintain a level of independence for longer?
Researchers in Minnesota may have found the answer, and it comes in the form of a humble vitamin.
The benefits of Vitamin E
The vitamin in question is alpha-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E. In a study, more than two years long, of a large group of Alzheimer’s patients, researchers found that those with moderate or mild Alzheimer’s who took alpha-tocopherol daily were better able to take care of themselves without assistance for a more extended period of time.
But how much alpha-tocopherol did they need to take to experience these benefits?
The study participants took 2,000 IU (international units) of alpha-tocopherol daily, which led to a noticeable improvement in their ability to perform daily tasks without help. It’s important to note, however, that while the vitamin helped improve their ability to take care of themselves, it did not improve their intellectual abilities or memory.
Potential impact on Alzheimer’s patients
While the results of this study are promising, it’s worth noting that the benefits of alpha-tocopherol may be limited. Dr. Scott Small, director of Columbia University’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, who was not involved in the study, commented: “Is it really going to dramatically alter the lives of Alzheimer’s patients? That’s unclear. But it might improve patients’ ability to bathe themselves and dress themselves.”
Although further research is needed to determine the full extent of the benefits of alpha-tocopherol, it’s clear that it may help improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s.
What is Vitamin E and where can you find it?
Vitamin E is a group of fat-soluble compounds that have antioxidant properties, meaning they help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic disease and aging. It’s also essential for the proper functioning of various organs in the body, as well as being important for healthy skin and eyes.
There are eight different forms of vitamin E, with alpha-tocopherol being the most potent and biologically active form. The vitamin is naturally found in a variety of foods, such as nuts (particularly almonds), seeds, vegetable oils (like sunflower and olive oil), fish, and leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale.
While it’s possible to get enough alpha-tocopherol through a balanced and varied diet, those with Alzheimer’s may benefit from taking a vitamin E supplement, as the study participants did. However, it’s crucial to speak to your doctor before beginning any supplementation regime, especially in high doses, as there can be potential risks involved.
Other ways to support brain health
In addition to supplementing with alpha-tocopherol, there are various other lifestyle factors that can help support brain health, potentially slowing down the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s. These may include:
- Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function and may even lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
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Eating a brain-healthy diet: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, fish, and nuts, may help protect the brain from damage that could lead to Alzheimer’s.
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Getting enough sleep: Poor sleep quality has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, so ensure you’re getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night to support brain health.
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Managing stress: Chronic stress can have a detrimental impact on brain health, so implementing stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help protect the brain.
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Staying socially and mentally engaged: Participating in social, intellectual, and creative activities can help keep the brain active and may potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
The addition of alpha-tocopherol to the daily routine of an Alzheimer’s patient may be able to offer some level of independence for a longer time. While it may not alter the lives of Alzheimer’s patients dramatically, maintaining the ability to perform daily tasks for an extended period can significantly impact the affected individual’s quality of life. As research continues to explore ways to help minimize the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, the hopeful outcome is that we learn more about reducing the suffering of those affected by this condition.
