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Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staffUse caution when considering alternative remedies to ward off or slow the progression of dementia, especially if taking other medications. Dietary supplements, vitamins and herbal remedies aren't regulated, and claims about their benefits are often based on personal testimonials rather than scientific research. Some of the more popular alternatives for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia are:
- Vitamin E. Some studies have shown that vitamin E can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, while other studies have shown no benefit. Doctors warn against taking large doses of vitamin E, especially if you're taking blood thinners, because of an increased risk of bleeding.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) found in fish and nuts. Research has linked certain types of omega-3s to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia and cognitive decline. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits supplements and foods to display labels with "a qualified health claim" for two omega-3s called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The FDA recommends taking no more than a combined total of 3 grams of DHA or EPA a day, with no more than 2 grams from supplements. Theories about why omega-3s might influence dementia risk include their benefit to the heart and blood vessels, anti-inflammatory effects, and support and protection of nerve cell membranes. Preliminary evidence also shows that omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of depression. It's thought this is because it's an essential nutrient for brain function.
- Coenzyme Q10. This antioxidant occurs naturally in your body and is needed for normal cell reactions. This compound hasn't been studied for its effectiveness in treating dementia. A synthetic version of this compound, called idebenone, was tested for Alzheimer's disease, but didn't show favorable results. Little is known about what dosage is considered safe, and too much may lower blood pressure, decrease blood sugar, or cause bruising or bleeding.
- Ginkgo. Some people believe that extracts from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help slow the progression of memory problems associated with dementia. But a recent large-scale study showed no benefit. Be aware that these preparations can interact with blood-thinning medications and cause bleeding.
- Huperzine A. Made from Chinese club moss, huperzine A appears to work in ways similar to prescription cholinesterase inhibitors. Because of an increased risk of toxic side effects, don't take huperzine A if you're also taking a prescription cholinesterase inhibitor.
References
- Dementia: Hope through research. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dementias/detail_dementia.htm#1318919213. Accessed Jan. 25, 2010.
- Dementia. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_dementia.asp. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
- Alternative treatments. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_alternative_treatments.asp. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
- A guide to dementia diagnosis and treatment. The American Geriatrics Society. http://www.americangeriatrics.org/press/listservs/december_10_2010427672/id:1442 Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
- NIH State-of-the-science conference statement on preventing Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. National Institutes of Health. http://consensus.nih.gov/2010/docs/alz/alz_stmt.pdf. Accessed Jan. 7, 2011.
- Ritchie K, et al. Designing prevention programmes to reduce incidence of dementia: Prospective cohort study of modifiable risk factors. British Medical Journal. 2010;341:c3885.
- Rusanen M, et al. Heavy smoking in midlife and long-term risk of Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia. Archives of Internal Medicine. In press. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
- Siedlecki KL, et al. Comparison of patient and caregiver reports of patient activity participation and its relationship to mental health in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Services. 2009;64B:687.
- Scarmeas N, et al. Physical activity, diet, and risk of Alzheimer's disease. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2009;302:627.
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