Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that occurs when brain cells die, preventing nerve messages from being transmitted properly. People with this condition commonly suffer from forgetfulness, personality changes and often find learning new tasks difficult. As of 2011 there is no cure for Alzheimer's, though medicines known as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can help slow progression and might also help improve thinking and memory. Nutrition might also play a role in the treatment of Alzheimer's. The B vitamin known as niacinamide might help prevent or improve symptoms, although evidence to prove this is limited. Do not use niacinamide in place of medical treatments and get advice before taking a niacinamide supplement.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B-3, nicotinic acid and niacin, helps the body metabolize fat and protein and also plays a role in hormone production. It might also play a role in the treatment of several disorders including high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, diabetes and headache. The Mayo Clinic notes that dementia may result from a severe niacinamide deficiency but adds that it is not clear whether dietary intake of this vitamin can influence neurodegenerative decline or Alzheimer's disease.
Sources and Administration
A number of foods contain niacinamide including brewer's yeast, tuna, peanuts and fortified breads and cereals. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement in tablets or capsules and is supplied in both standard and timed-release forms. Guidance regarding the amount required to help prevent or treat Alzheimer's is lacking; however, your doctor may be able to advise on a suitable dose.
Effectiveness
Clinical studies evaluating the effect of niacinamide on Alzheimer's are lacking as of 2011, therefore it is difficult to know whether niacinamide might help to prevent or treat Alzheimer's. However, the results of a study that included 6,158 patients aged 65 years and older, published in the August 2004 issue of the "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry," show that niacinamide had a protective effect on the development of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. More studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Safety Considerations
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that taking 50mg or more of niacinamide daily might cause side effects including flushing or a burning sensation in the face and chest, and adds that higher doses may cause liver damage and stomach ulcers. Its use is contraindicated in several conditions including diabetes, gout and gallbladder disease. It might also interact with other medicines you might be taking including aspirin and blood pressure medicines.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alzheimer's disease
- MayoClinic.com; Niacin (vitamin B3, nicotinic acid), Niacinamide; April 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry"; Dietary Niacin and the Risk of Incident Alzheimer's Disease and of Cognitive Decline; M.C. Morris, et al.; August 2010
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