The Best Supplements To Prevent Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease is the No. 6 cause of death among Americans, reports the American Health Assistance Foundation. Alzheimer's disease, a condition involving progressive mental deterioration, often manifests in people over the age of 60, and your risk of developing this condition usually increases as you get older. Some dietary supplements may help reduce your likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease, although you should always consult your family physician before using supplements for this health reason.

About Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease -- named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German doctor who first described the condition -- is the No. 1 cause of dementia in older Americans, although it is not a normal part of your aging process. This condition causes nerve cells in your brain to die, which in turn causes the affected parts of your brain to shrink. According to the National Institute on Aging, the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease-related brain damage is unknown, and this condition may begin about 10 to 20 years before noticeable signs of forgetfulness develop.

Useful Supplements

Numerous dietary supplements may be useful in treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease, although claims about the safety and efficacy of these substances for this health purpose may require a larger body of scientific research evidence. According to the Alzheimer's Association, the following supplements may be effective in treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease: caprylic acid, coconut oil, coenzyme Q10, coral calcium, Ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, omega-3 fatty acids, phosphatidylserine and tramiprosate.

Supplement in Focus

Gingko biloba may be one of the most effective supplements in treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that extracts from the leaves of the ginkgo tree -- consumed in either capsule or liquid form -- possess antioxidant action and help enhance blood flow to your brain. Balch notes that the use of ginkgo may help normalize or improve your mental functioning if you suffer from Alzheimer's disease and may help prevent rapid mental deterioration.

Considerations

Alzheimer's disease is a serious and progressive condition that requires the assistance of a qualified and competent health care professional to properly manage. Your doctor can tell you or a family member what treatments may be best for you and your condition. Certain dietary supplements, though commonly used to help prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease, may cause unwanted health effects or trigger allergic reactions within your body and should be avoided or discontinued immediately.