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World’s leading dementia researchers report
progress in Alzheimer’s
The accelerating pace of research into prevention methods, causes,
treatments and a possible cure for Alzheimer’s disease was covered during
the 9th Annual International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related
Disorders (ICAD), presented by the Alzheimer’s Association in July 2004 in
Philadelphia.
“Although
Alzheimer’s is a complex disease with complex causes, studies at our
international conference bolstered evidence that we may be able to
influence at least some factors in the mix,” said William H. Thies, Ph.D.,
Alzheimer’s Association vice president, medical and scientific affairs.
Here is a sampling
of the research progress and study findings reported during the
conference, the largest-ever gathering of the world’s leading dementia
researchers.
Some blood pressure medications may reduce Alzheimer risk
A number of previous research studies had linked high blood pressure
with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. On the other hand, other
studies have suggested that anti-high blood pressure medications might
reduce this risk. Researchers examined data from an ongoing study of
memory and aging among more than 3,300 participants age 65 and over and
found that those who had used anti-high blood pressure medications had a
lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s. This benefit seemed most closely
related to the use of diuretics. Among this group of drugs,
“potassium-sparing” diuretics were associated with the greatest reduction
in Alzheimer risk.
Antioxidants may battle cognitive decline
Tracking a six-year change in the cognitive function of men and women,
a study funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) found that human
brains are vulnerable to free radicals and oxidants damage associated with
dementia. Over time, individuals in the study who took vitamin C and ate
foods rich in carotenoids had higher scores on cognitive tests than those
who did not follow the eating plan. Foods with carotenoids include
carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, strawberries and citrus
fruits. Antioxidant-rich foods also were reported to help with mental
ability.
Raising “good” cholesterol may protect against dementia
Higher HDL, or “good” cholesterol, levels continue to point to lower
risk factors for a number of diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. The
best HDL levels are the highest – HDL of 60 milligrams per decaliter (mg/dL)
signals the lowest risk; HDL of less than 40mg/dL means a higher risk. In
fact, raising “good” cholesterol in middle age may help preserve brain
function in later years.
Heart disease and metabolic factors promote mental decline
Researchers see a link between a sick heart and a decline in the ability
to think clearly. Mounting evidence suggests that factors contributing to
cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, also
increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. In a sample of more than 700 men and
women, diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk factors were measured and
then correlated with cognitive health several years after the
measurements.
Diabetes and Alzheimer connection
The connection between adult-onset diabetes, high blood pressure and
Alzheimer’s is just beginning to be recognized and was the subject of
several reports at the conference. Experts reported that as many as 75
percent of all American adults in midlife have impaired glucose tolerance
or the beginnings of hypertension. In one notable study, diabetics
experienced a greater rate of cognitive decline over time compared to
non-diabetics.
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Where do you fit
on the healthy
numbers scale?
120/80
Blood pressure
- Normal
is < 120/80
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Pre-hypertension = 120/80 to 139/89
- High (hypertension) is >
140/90
Source:
American Heart Assn.
<200
Cholesterol
- < 200
mg/dL is desirable
- Borderline high =
200-239
mg/dL
- High is > 240
mg/dL
Source:
American Heart Assn.
90-130
Blood sugar
- Normal =
90-130 mg/dL before meals; 180 mg/dL two hours after a meal
Source:
American Diabetes Assn.
What is an antioxidant?
You've probably heard a lot about antioxidants and their role in
maintaining good health, including brain health. But what are they?
Antioxidants are special compounds that help protect cells from
damage caused by free radicals. When healthy cells are damaged, they
are more susceptible to aging, cardiovascular disease and certain
types of cancers.
Where to find
antioxidants
ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) Level units per 100 grams
per 3.5 oz. serving:
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Prunes (dried plums) 5,770 |
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Raisins 2,830 |
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Blueberries 2,400 |
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Blackberries 2,036 |
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Kale 1,770 |
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Strawberries 1,540 |
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Spinach 1,260 |
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Raspberries 1,220 |
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Brussels sprouts 980 |
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Plums 949 |
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Alfalfa sprouts 930 |
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Broccoli 890 |
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Beets 840 |
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Oranges 750 |
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Red grapes 739 |
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Red bell peppers 710 |
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Cherries 670 |
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Kiwi fruit 602 |
Source:
www.Sunsweet.com |
