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This is the question we get asked all the time from our community.
Normally if they go to the doctor they may get referred to a memory clinic for a Cognitive Function Test. Some get invited to take part in drug trials and there are basically two kinds of drugs under investigation – anti-amyloid and anti-p-tau. If you’re tempted to participate in any test, we would suggest finding out which type is being tested. So far the anti-amyloid treatments have not delivered any significant clinical benefit and lots of adverse effects including deaths. Anti p-tau drugs have not yet been proven to work. However, p-tau accumulation, making neurofibrillary tangles, is a function of high homocysteine which is lowered with B vitamins (see below). We know this already. So why not test and lower homocysteine with B vitamins?
Some people get prescribed cholinesterase inhibitor drugs, designed to stop the breakdown of acetylcholine. These include rivastigmine, donepezil (Aricept) and galantamine. They are marginally effective, but the effect runs out after 2 years (see why below and other approaches).
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The first step, with help, is to do the Cognitive Function Test here (which they may struggle with), followed by a questionnaire.
Even if they can’t complete the Cognitive Function Test, do encourage them to continue and complete the questionnaire because this will show where the weak areas that need attention are. An example test result is below.
Ideally, they should then sign up as a FRIEND to get access to COGNITION and a focused brain upgrade but if they are too far progressed to receive and respond to emails, then here are some quick wins.
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First, have them do the DRIfT home test to measure HBA1c, homocysteine, omega-3 index and vitamin D. If you know their HbA1c and vitamin D already then you can test these individually (see all test options here).
From a raised HbA1c we’d know if sugar balance is a problem, in which case 2 tablespoons (60g) of C8 oil is likely to help, as well as eating low carbs and avoiding sugar as much as possible (and limit alcohol). The C8 oil helps the brain make ketones which is an alternative fuel source for brain cells and fills the ‘energy gap’ created by poor glucose delivery, a function of insulin resistance.
If Homocysteine is above 10mcmol/l. we’d know they need homocysteine lowering B vitamins (including supplementing vitamin B12 500mcg – see here)
If Omega-3 is below 8%, they need to eat more oily fish and supplement omega-3 fish oils with 500mg of DHA – see here for more info on supplementation.
If Vitamin D is below 75nmol/l they need to supplement – probably 1,000 to 3,000ius a day or 10,000-20,000ius a week. Click here to read more about what’s needed depending on their level.
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Neuronal membranes, which is what breaks down in dementia, are made from phospholipids binding to omega-3, which require B vitamins to drive a process called methylation.
If this process is not working efficiently, homocysteine goes up.
A critical phospholipid is Phosphatidyl Choline (PC), bound to omega-3 DHA (known as PC-DHA, which predicts dementia if low). The cholinesterase inhibitor drugs try to protect this but why not supplement phosphatidyl choline, which is very rich in lecithin capsules or granules? Two high PC lecithin capsules, plus at least 500 mg of omega-3 DHA, plus homocysteine-lowering B vitamin complexes cover all bases. See here for more information on supplements.
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We can guide you through all 8 lifestyle domains that can help improve cognitive function in our COGNITION program (read how Dorothy got her husband back after implementing these with her husband here).
A diet low in sugar and carbs, with lots of oily fish, regular exercise and as much social and intellectual stimulation as possible along with good sleep, all make a big difference and we guide you through that in COGNITION for £5 a month or £50 a year. Access COGNITION by joining as a FRIEND here.
Once the Cognitive Function Test is complete, you will get a personalised result showing the areas that are ‘in the green’ and the areas you need to focus on (bear in mind that if dementia is already diagnosed, there will probably be a lot of red and amber colours).
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All tests ordered and completed contribute to our charitable work and independent research and are a part of our Citizen Science mission!
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Thank you for reading!
Food for the Brain is a non-for-profit educational and research charity that offers a free Cognitive Function Test and assesses your Dementia Risk Index to be able to advise you on how to dementia-proof your diet and lifestyle.
By completing the Cognitive Function Test you are joining our grassroots research initiative to find out what really works for preventing cognitive decline. We share our ongoing research results with you to help you make brain-friendly choices.
Please support our research by becoming a Friend of Food for the Brain.
