Folks - I forgot to mention that article came from TIME magazine. Really, really encouraging, but that is true science and not someone trying to sell you false hope.
Agree with jeannegibbs. Dementia isn't a diagnoses, it describes the condition that results from many, many possible root causes. Until you really understand the root cause (which takes a trained neurologist to accurately diagnose), self-medicating is a crap-shoot. Some conditions are exacerbated by certain drugs. Be cautious.
Have you every watched a documentary about the brain and Alzheimer's disease? Seen the tangles and the plaques and heard what they are made of an how they develop? Or a documentary about Lewy Bodies in the brain, how they were discovered and what science knows about them so far?
Have you attended lectures or seminars or read some books about the actual physical condition of the brain, and what is seen during autopsies?
Do you know about the different kinds of protein molecules involved in the different kinds of dementia? Tau, beta-amyloid, alpha-synuclein hexamer, progranulin ... and on and on. And that recent research is identifying some links in the DNA chain that might be implicated in certain types of dementia?
And that dementia typically starts developing in the brain some 20 years before symptoms appear?
The causes and triggers for dementia are extremely complex. Although that has been the target of huge, huge amounts of research worldwide, for decades, science is still not certain of the exact causes and sequences in the development of dementia.
Given that complexity, what are the chances that taking extract of dandelion (or whatever) is going to solve this baffling problem?
Sure, if your loved one has a vitamin B deficiency, give her supplements as suggested by her doctor. If, like nearly everyone in the Northern hemisphere, he has a vitamin D deficiency, address that.
But true dementia? Sorry folks, we just don't know enough to say what might help.
Again, there is NOTHING you can do or take that will stop the progression of dementia. Do not waste your money! The good news is that there is a drug in clinical trials right now that really shows promise, but it will be years before it comes to market. Read the article on Alzheimer's with the lead story on the front cover about two months ago. Dr. Longo at Stanford Univ. has a different solution.
I agree with Simonofcyrene. The first thing to check is B12 levels. B12 deficiency can cause dementia and also physical ailments mimicking Parkinsons and other debilitating illnesses. After that the electrolites are VERY important. I gave Mother Ginko, Resveratrol and Picnogenol (don't know how to spell this) and she lived to 104. She had a stroke due to AFib caused by her doctor ignoring the symptoms of hyperthyroid, so intermittent memory loss and brain fog along with other demented behaviors plagued us the last year of her life. This is another thing that is important for EVERYONE - have the thyroid checked. Hypothyroid causes symptoms of dementia if it becomes severe.
VERY important to check with your Dr about possible interactions with meds. My SIL (a Dr.) says he sees FAR too many patients who take "supplements" or "natural" oils that conflict tremendously with the prescribed meds. Due not in small part that although "natural", these things do have side effects. Also they are not okayed by the FDA and so they are not studied in conjunction with typical western meds. Just be very careful, and very suspicious of ANYTHING that claims it will do something miraculous......
I agree with Simonofcyrene's comment, it is very important to check with your doctor to make sure there is not a conflict with medications. With the guidance of a highly regarded Naturopathic doctor, mom is taking excellent brands of supplements: Ashwagandha, Vit B (Homocysteine spray), Vit D3, K2, COQ10, PQQ, Turmeric, Probiotics, Green Vibrance powder for smoothies, and exercise to manage her dementia. At age 85, Mom is still able to live alone, but with the help of a daily visiting caregiver to assists with her medications, and food preparation.
In my opinion I believe a combination of nutrition, and exercise can help. I would first look at records of electrolytes and blood work thats where I would start. I think many elderly need a nutritionist. As we age many things slow down or don't absorb as when we were younger. Exercise will help with depression and mental stimulation. Being around people, having a purpose really is helpful. I have tried coconut oil, b-complex more specifically b12, fish oil, turmeric and vitamin D. Dementia is unique to each person so make sure your remedies don't conflict with medications, very important to check with physician.
Have you attended lectures or seminars or read some books about the actual physical condition of the brain, and what is seen during autopsies?
Do you know about the different kinds of protein molecules involved in the different kinds of dementia? Tau, beta-amyloid, alpha-synuclein hexamer, progranulin ... and on and on. And that recent research is identifying some links in the DNA chain that might be implicated in certain types of dementia?
And that dementia typically starts developing in the brain some 20 years before symptoms appear?
The causes and triggers for dementia are extremely complex. Although that has been the target of huge, huge amounts of research worldwide, for decades, science is still not certain of the exact causes and sequences in the development of dementia.
Given that complexity, what are the chances that taking extract of dandelion (or whatever) is going to solve this baffling problem?
Sure, if your loved one has a vitamin B deficiency, give her supplements as suggested by her doctor. If, like nearly everyone in the Northern hemisphere, he has a vitamin D deficiency, address that.
But true dementia? Sorry folks, we just don't know enough to say what might help.
Exercise will help with depression and mental stimulation. Being around people, having a purpose really is helpful.
I have tried coconut oil, b-complex more specifically b12, fish oil, turmeric and vitamin D. Dementia is unique to each person so make sure your remedies don't conflict with medications, very important to check with physician.