Memory and Brain Health
October 10, 2010 by Becki Baumgartner
Filed under Aging & Longevity, Supplements
Courtesy of Nature’s Sunshine Products
Named for the German doctor who first diagnosed it, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that destroys brain cells. As a result, the patient suffers memory loss and severe thinking and behavior problems. Over 5 million Americans live with this fatal disease.
As the body ages, so does the brain. We all typically experience a little slowed thinking or occasional memory trouble. But serious memory loss, confusion and other major changes in the way our minds work are not normal. They may be a sign that brain cells are failing.
The brain has about 100 billion nerve cells (neurons). Each cell communicates with many others to form networks. Nerve cell networks have special jobs. These include thinking, learning, remembering, sensory tasks (seeing, hearing and smell) and directing muscle movement. Abnormal structures called plaques and tangles are likely responsible for damaging and killing nerve cells.
Similar to plaque on teeth, plaque in the brain is a build-up of protein fragments between nerve cells. Tangles (twisted fibers of another protein) form inside dying brain cells. Though most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, those with Alzheimer’s tend to develop far more. The plaques and tangles usually form in a predictable pattern, starting with areas
important in learning and memory and spreading to other regions.
Memory Quiz
If you are evaluating someone’s memory problems, ask these questions:
Yes No Does your memory loss disrupt daily life?
Yes No Does planning or solving problems pose a challenge?
Yes No Do you find it difficult to complete familiar tasks at home?
Yes No Are you easily confused with regard to times or locations?
Yes No Do you have trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships?
Yes No Do you have new problems with language in either speaking or writing?
Yes No Are you unable to retrace your steps when you misplace things?
Yes No Do you notice a decrease injudgment?
Yes No Are you withdrawing from work or social activities?
Yes No Have you observed changes in mood and personality?“Yes” answers to these questions may signify increasing dementia.
As our society ages, more and more Americans face dreaded memory problems. Second guessing any forgetful behavior, we sometimes kid that we have Alzheimer’s (or Old Timer’s)
disease.
Most experts believe that plaques and tangles somehow block communication among nerve cells and disrupt activities that cells need to survive. Studies show that people with Alzheimer’s also commonly have altered phospholipid levels. Phospholipids are a major component of cell membranes, and are essential to brain health and function. It stands to reason that supplementing with phospholipids—including choline and lecithin—may help counter this deficit.
Alzheimer’s disease has also been associated with low levels of acetylcholine in the brain. The nutrient huperzine A has been demonstrated to effectively inhibit acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine.
Learn About Nervous System Nutrients for Memory and Brain Health
Learn About Brain Protex wtih Huperzine A
Visit the Nature’s Sunshine Website
Source: Nature’s Sunshine. (2010.) Manager’s Extra September 2010. Brain and Memory Health. Extracted in entirety with permission from http://www.naturessunshine.com/content/us/misc/magazine/Brain-and-Memory-Health-Sept-2010.pdfRelated
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Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.