Numerous supplements may help treat Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, irreversible brain condition that gradually destroys your memory and cognitive abilities, states he National Institute on Aging. If you have advanced Alzheimer's disease, you will eventually become unable to perform even the simplest tasks. Most cases of Alzheimer's disease manifest after the age of 60, says the NIA. Certain dietary supplements may help reduce Alzheimer's disease-related signs and symptoms.
Carnitine
Carnitine -- acetyl-L-carnitine, specifically -- is a dietary supplement that may help treat Alzheimer's disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, carnitine is a nutrient that helps your body turn fat into energy. Carnitine is produced by your body in your liver and kidneys and is stored in your muscle, heart and brain. The UMMC states that acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation might help delay the progression of your Alzheimer's disease, relieve senility-related depression and other types of dementia and improve memory among elderly individuals. Dr. Russell B. Marz, a naturopathic physician and author of the textbook "Medical Nutrition From Marz" states that acetyl-L-carnitine is a major neurotransmitter in your brain. If you have Alzheimer's disease, increased consumption of acetyl-L-carnitine may enhance your memory and constructional thinking. According to the UMMC, you should take carnitine for your Alzheimer's disease only under physician supervision.
Zinc
Zinc supplementation may help reduce symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements states that zinc is an essential mineral that is present in some foods, added to others and available as a dietary supplement. Zinc, which is involved in many aspects of your cellular metabolism, can also be found in some cold lozenges and over-the-counter drugs. According to Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., M.D., a naturopathic physician and author of the textbook "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," zinc is a common nutrient deficiency in the elderly and may be a major factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Pizzorno notes that levels of zinc in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid of people with Alzheimer's disease is significantly decreased. If you want to supplement your diet with zinc, first consult your physician for proper dosage and potential side effects.
Glutamine
Glutamine supplementation may enhance your mental function if you have Alzheimer's disease. The UMMC states that glutamine is the most abundant amino acid, or building block of protein, in your body. Your body can generate enough glutamine for its regular functioning, although severe stress can overwhelm your body's ability to produce sufficient amounts of this substance. The UMMC states that most of your glutamine is stored in your muscles and lungs. A 2001 study by P. G. Antuono and colleagues published in the journal "Neurology" states that glutamate and glutamine reductions may be a biologic marker for Alzheimer's disease. Antuono and colleagues also state that glutamine supplementation may provide a potential aid in the early clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Consult a qualified health care professional for proper dosage and possible side effects before beginning glutamine supplementation for your Alzheimer's disease.
References
- National Institute on Aging: Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Carnitine (L-carnitine)
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glutamine
- "Neurology"; Decreased Glutamine in Alzheimer's Disease; P. G. Antuono et al.; March 2001
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