Neurodegenerative disease is a term used for conditions that affect the function of neurons in the human brain. Unlike other cells in the body, neurons, or nerve cells, are incapable of cell reproduction. Once neurons are injured, degenerate or die, the body cannot replace them with new ones. This is why neurodegenerative diseases are debilitating and very difficult to … Continue reading Compounds from two Nigerian vegetables found to inhibit enzymes implicated in neurodegenerative diseases
Middle aged women can experience cognitive decline as a side effect of stressful life experiences
Middle-aged women who experience stressful life experiences are more likely to develop dementia later in life, suggests a recent study from Johns Hopkins University. In their report, which was published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, the team noted that the findings were specific to women who experience chronic stress. This could also explain the disproportionate rates of … Continue reading Middle aged women can experience cognitive decline as a side effect of stressful life experiences
If they can’t cure your depression, maybe they can make you forget you have it: Common anticholinergic drugs increase dementia risk by 50 percent
The use of anticholinergic medications is widespread, especially among older adults. These medications are often prescribed by physicians to treat a wide variety of health problems, including bladder disorders, gastrointestinal issues, seasonal allergies and even depression. However, recent studies have found a connection between the use of anticholinergic drugs and acute cognitive impairments. In particular, these medications have been … Continue reading If they can’t cure your depression, maybe they can make you forget you have it: Common anticholinergic drugs increase dementia risk by 50 percent
Making healthy lifestyle choices can prevent the onset of dementia
A healthy lifestyle can prevent the onset of dementia regardless of genetic risk factors. This is according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Researchers found that individuals aged 60 years and above who follow a healthy lifestyle have a lower risk of dementia than those who have an unhealthy lifestyle. Additionally, they … Continue reading Making healthy lifestyle choices can prevent the onset of dementia
Understanding the medical differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are two terms that are often used to mean the same thing. Anyone who has done a bit of reading on Alzheimer’s disease finds a link between the neurodegenerative disease and the term “dementia.” While the distinction between the two can be quite confusing to some, the two words actually mean different … Continue reading Understanding the medical differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia
Does A Slow Cellular Metabolism Speed Up Aging?
Aging is a universal human reality. Concern regarding aging—and a collective aversion to it—has even generated entire industry segments dedicated to anti-aging products, from expensive supplements through pricey lotions. People are afraid of the issues that can come up with advanced age: cancer, cognitive decline, wrinkles and age spots, mobility issues, sexual dysfunction, and any number of other … Continue reading Does A Slow Cellular Metabolism Speed Up Aging?
Air Pollution Could Alter Tags on DNA and Increase Risk for Neurodegenerative Disease
Not only is air pollution a major environmental concern, but it poses major health issues. New research suggests that inhaling extremely small particles known as fine particulate matter could add epigenetic marks to DNA. This may potentially lead to stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairments and neurodevelopmental disorders. We’re certainly learning more about how … Continue reading Air Pollution Could Alter Tags on DNA and Increase Risk for Neurodegenerative Disease
Major component of silymarin may help prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Silymarin is an herbal extract that’s popularly used as a health supplement. It is associated with liver benefits and is often taken by patients with hepatitis. Silymarin contains a mixture of various compounds, the most active of which is the flavonoid known as silibinin. In a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, researchers from different universities … Continue reading Major component of silymarin may help prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Study reveals that toxic algae is causing dolphins to suffer from Alzheimer’s-like brain disease
The excessive blooming of blue-green algae might be responsible for the recent spate of deaths among dolphins. A pathological study found toxic compounds in the harmful algae that might cause a neurodegenerative problem similar to Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from the University of Miami autopsied the brains and bodies of 14 dead dolphins. For the first time, they found … Continue reading Study reveals that toxic algae is causing dolphins to suffer from Alzheimer’s-like brain disease
Ashwagandha: Discover the health benefits of this popular ancient adaptogen
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, a class of medicinal herbs prescribed to alleviate stress and fatigue. Also called Indian ginseng, it has recently gained immense popularity as a health supplement that helps people deal with chronic stress. Adaptogens restore and promote balance. These nonspecific herbal remedies respond to the body’s needs. If the user feels nervous, adaptogens will exert a … Continue reading Ashwagandha: Discover the health benefits of this popular ancient adaptogen
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 