dementia Archives - Amazing Health Advances https://amazinghealthadvances.net/tag/dementia/ Your hub for fresh-picked health and wellness info Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:04:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/AHA_Gradient_Bowl-150x150.jpg dementia Archives - Amazing Health Advances https://amazinghealthadvances.net/tag/dementia/ 32 32 Slash Risk of Dementia up to 40% with THIS Science-Backed Approach https://amazinghealthadvances.net/slash-risk-of-dementia-up-to-40-with-science-backed-approach-8662/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=slash-risk-of-dementia-up-to-40-with-science-backed-approach-8662 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/slash-risk-of-dementia-up-to-40-with-science-backed-approach-8662/#respond Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:03:21 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=18029 Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Count to three. That’s how long it takes for someone in the world to develop dementia. The number of people living with this condition will double in just two decades. The good news? There are ways to defend against cognitive decline – nutrition, mental stimulation, and exercise, as highlighted in a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Aerobic exercise is one of the most powerful lifestyle factors for protecting brain health. Research shows that staying physically active can significantly lower the risk of dementia, making movement a key ingredient in lifelong cognitive wellness. So, how does exercise protect your brain? And what kind of workout is most effective? Let’s dive in. Exercise: A powerful defense against dementia The fight against dementia starts with movement. Research shows that high cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) can lower the overall risk of dementia by 40% and even reduce risk by 35% in those genetically predisposed to the condition. Why? Because exercise strengthens both the heart and lungs, two key players in maintaining cognitive function. Drawing from the UK Biobank data, a new study analyzed over 61,000 adults aged 39 to 70 over 12 years. The findings were clear: Those with higher CRF performed significantly better on cognitive tests. Even individuals with a moderate to high genetic risk for dementia saw a 35% lower risk if they maintained high CRF. Participants with high CRF had a 40% lower overall risk of developing dementia. On average, they also delayed dementia onset by 1.5 years. CRF – your body’s ability to deliver oxygen during exercise – directly impacts memory, processing speed, and cognitive resilience. Just six minutes of stationary cycling was enough to reveal these benefits in the study. While no single factor can guarantee protection against dementia, regular aerobic exercise is one of the most powerful tools available for preserving brain health and reducing the impact of genetic risk. Not all exercise protects against dementia – cardio is key When it comes to brain health, not all exercise is created equal. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is one of the most effective physical activities for slowing cognitive decline. However, knowing that aerobic exercise is one of the most powerful defenses against dementia is one thing – making it a consistent habit is another. The key is finding activities that you enjoy and can sustain long-term. Here’s how to seamlessly integrate CRF-boosting movement into your lifestyle: 1. Start small and build up If you’re new to aerobic exercise, start with 10-15 minutes a day and gradually increase the duration and intensity. A brisk walk around the neighborhood, a light bike ride, or even a short dance session in your living room can get your heart pumping. 2. Make movement a daily habit Schedule exercise like an important meeting. Whether it’s a morning walk, an afternoon swim, or an evening dance class, consistency matters more than intensity. The goal is to keep your heart and lungs working regularly. 3. Try fun, social activities Exercising with others can make it more enjoyable and sustainable. Join a dance class, sign up for a group swim session, or go on weekend hikes with friends. Social engagement is a brain booster, so combining it with movement creates a double benefit. 4. Take advantage of everyday movement You don’t need a gym membership to stay active. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, park farther from the store, or walk while taking phone calls. Small bursts of movement throughout the day add up. 5. Mix it up to stay engaged Variety prevents boredom and ensures you’re challenging different muscle groups. Alternate between cycling, power walking, swimming, and dancing to keep things interesting while maximizing CRF benefits. 6. Track your progress Using a fitness tracker or journal to monitor your activity levels can help you stay motivated and see your improvement over time. Even tracking how you feel mentally and physically after exercise can reinforce the habit. 7. Listen to your body The goal is lifelong brain health, so prioritize consistency over intensity. If you’re fatigued, opt for a lower-impact activity like swimming or a leisurely bike ride instead of skipping movement altogether. By making these small but meaningful changes, you’re not just improving your physical health but actively protecting your brain for years to come. Sources for this article include: BMJ.com Studyfinds.org Alzint.org To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/slash-risk-of-dementia-up-to-40-with-science-backed-approach-8662/feed/ 0 Pedaling Against Dementia: How Cycling Preserves Brain Health & Prevents Cognitive Decline https://amazinghealthadvances.net/cycling-preserves-brain-health-prevents-cognitive-decline-8648/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cycling-preserves-brain-health-prevents-cognitive-decline-8648 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/cycling-preserves-brain-health-prevents-cognitive-decline-8648/#respond Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:06:01 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=17988 S.D. Wells via Natural News – Cycling preserves brain health and prevents cognitive decline – per study published in JAMA Network Open Medical doctors in America would have us all believe that as we age, we fall apart and there’s nothing we can do about it. They tell us it’s normal to die by 75 of a heart attack, diabetes, obesity, cancer or … wait for it… dementia. Our brains just “get old” and it’s “genetics” so all we can do is treat the symptoms and try to extend your life a few years with medications. Lie. Try exercising and eating clean. That would include cycling, which studies show prevents cognitive decline and dementia. Who knew? Time to hop on your bike this summer and have some fun, so you can have a healthy brain forever! Cycling Prevents Cognitive Decline: A JAMA Network Open study tracking nearly 500,000 people over 13 years found that cyclists had significantly lower dementia rates and greater brain volume in memory-related regions compared to non-cyclists. Superior Brain Protection: Cyclists showed a 19% lower risk of all-cause dementia, 22% reduced Alzheimer’s risk, and a 40% drop in young-onset dementia risk—outperforming walking, driving, or public transit. Dynamic Brain Stimulation: Cycling’s combination of navigation, balance, and decision-making creates a “cognitively enriched environment,” increasing gray matter in 10 brain regions and promoting neurogenesis. Genetics & E-Bike Caveats: Those without the APOE ?4 gene saw a 26% lower dementia risk, while e-bikes may weaken benefits by reducing physical/cognitive effort. Traditional cycling’s demands are key. Cycling preserves brain health and prevents cognitive decline – per study published in JAMA Network Open In an era where dementia cases are projected to triple by 2050, scientists have uncovered a surprisingly simple and cost-effective way to protect the brain: cycling. A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Network Open tracked nearly half a million individuals over 13 years and found that cyclists had significantly lower rates of dementia and maintained greater brain volume in memory-related regions compared to those who walked, drove, or took public transit. The findings suggest that cycling doesn’t just boost physical health—it actively shields the brain from degeneration. The study compared how different modes of transportation affected dementia risk, with striking results. Cyclists showed a 19% lower risk of all-cause dementia compared to car or public transit users. For Alzheimer’s disease specifically, the protection jumped to 22%, while the risk of young-onset dementia plummeted by 40%. What set cycling apart was its impact on the hippocampus, the brain region critical for memory and learning. Cyclists retained more gray matter in this area, suggesting the activity doesn’t just slow cognitive decline—it may actively fortify brain structure. Walking, by contrast, showed minimal benefits, while driving or bus riding fell somewhere in between. The secret lies in the cognitive demands of cycling. Unlike passive transportation, cycling requires real-time navigation, hazard assessment, balance, and decision-making—all while elevating heart rate. This combination creates a “cognitively enriched environment” that stimulates neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells). The study linked cycling to increased gray matter in 10 different brain regions, offering broad protection against decline. In contrast, repetitive activities like walking on a treadmill or driving the same route daily place the brain on autopilot, missing the dynamic challenges that spur growth. The study revealed that cycling’s protective effects vary by genetics. Participants without the APOE ?4 gene (a known dementia risk factor) saw a 26% reduction in dementia risk, while those with the gene still benefited, albeit at a lower rate (12%). This suggests cycling can help even those predisposed to cognitive decline. However, the rise of electric bikes raises concerns. While convenient, e-bikes reduce the physical and cognitive effort required—potentially diluting cycling’s brain-boosting effects. Traditional cycling’s demands—balance, route planning, and sustained exertion—appear critical to its neurological benefits. For many, cycling infrastructure remains a barrier, but small changes can yield big rewards: Replace short car trips (pharmacy runs, coffee stops) with bike rides. Use bike-sharing programs or join local cycling groups for safer routes. Prioritize safety with helmets, lights, and reflective gear, starting on low-traffic streets. As dementia looms as a global health crisis, this study underscores that one of the most effective prevention tools may be sitting in garages worldwide. Cycling merges physical exercise, mental stimulation, and environmental benefits—all without costly medications or side effects. The evidence is clear: those who cycle regularly aren’t just protecting their hearts and muscles—they’re safeguarding their minds. With dementia rates rising, the choice to pedal today could mean remembering more tomorrow. Tune your internet dial to NaturalMedicine.news for more tips on how to use natural remedies for preventative medicine and for healing, instead of succumbing to Big Pharma products that cause, spread, and exacerbate disease and disorder, including dementia. Sources for this article include: NaturalNews.com Naturalhealth365.com To read the original article, click here

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/cycling-preserves-brain-health-prevents-cognitive-decline-8648/feed/ 0 Antidepressants Linked to Faster Cognitive Decline in Dementia https://amazinghealthadvances.net/antidepressants-linked-to-faster-cognitive-decline-in-dementia-8569/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=antidepressants-linked-to-faster-cognitive-decline-in-dementia-8569 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/antidepressants-linked-to-faster-cognitive-decline-in-dementia-8569/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 05:21:22 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=17654 Karolinska Institutet via EurekAlert! – New research suggests that antidepressants can accelerate cognitive decline in people with dementia. At the same time, some drugs appear to be less harmful than others, which can help doctors make better treatment decisions, according to the study published in BMC Medicine. Antidepressants are often used to relieve symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, and sleep disturbances in dementia sufferers. However, a new observational study based on data from the Swedish Dementia Registry (SveDem) shows that patients with dementia who are treated with antidepressants experience an increased cognitive decline compared to patients who do not receive this medication. The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of registry data from 18,740 patients, of whom approximately 23 percent were treated with antidepressants. During the course of the study, a total of 11,912 prescriptions of antidepressants were registered, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) accounting for 65 percent. Depressive symptoms “Depressive symptoms can both worsen cognitive decline and impair quality of life, so it is important to treat them. Our results can help doctors and other healthcare professionals choose antidepressants that are better adapted for patients with dementia,” says Sara Garcia Ptacek, researcher at the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, and the study’s last author. The researchers from Karolinska Institutet and Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg have followed the patients’ cognitive development over time and compared both medicated and non-medicated groups as well as different types of antidepressants. Although it is not currently possible to determine whether the cognitive impairment is due to the drugs or to the depressive symptoms themselves, the researchers were able to see that antidepressants were associated with increased cognitive decline. Differences between drugs The study also points to differences between different drugs. The SSRI escitalopram was associated with the fastest cognitive decline, followed by the SSRIs citalopram and sertraline. Mirtazapine, which has a different mechanism of action, had less negative cognitive impact than escitalopram. The researchers now want to investigate whether certain patient groups, such as people with specific dementia types or biomarkers, respond better or worse to different antidepressants. “The goal is to find these subgroups to create more individualised care,” says Sara Garcia Ptacek. The study has been funded by the Swedish Research Council, Region Stockholm, the Swedish Dementia Research Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Foundation and New Innovative Roads Call – a private initiative from the Leif Lundblad family and others. The researchers report no conflicts of interest. Publication: “Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study”, Minjia Mo, Tamar Abzhandadze, Minh Tuan Hoang, Simona Sacuiu, Pol Grau Jurado, Joana B. Pereira, Luana Naia, Julianna Kele, Silvia Maioli, Hong Xu, Maria Eriksdotter, Sara Garcia Ptacek. BMC Medicine, online February 25, 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3. Journal BMC Medicine DOI 10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3. To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/antidepressants-linked-to-faster-cognitive-decline-in-dementia-8569/feed/ 0 The Most Important Medical Test You Can Have https://amazinghealthadvances.net/the-most-important-medical-test-you-can-have-8520/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-most-important-medical-test-you-can-have-8520 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/the-most-important-medical-test-you-can-have-8520/#respond Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:18:40 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=17494 Al Sears, MD, CNS – I get a lot of mail from readers like you who tell me they’re scheduled to see their doctor for an annual checkup. And they want to know… What is the number-one anti-aging test they should ask their physician to order? It’s an important question. But sadly, most conventionally trained doctors will NEVER order the test I recommend… You see, with my patients, I want to know what’s going on at the cellular level. And that’s why I think it’s essential to have a test that measures your telomeres. Lengthening your telomeres is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from the diseases we commonly associate with aging. Diseases like Alzheimer’s… heart disease… diabetes… obesity… and cancer. The minute I learned about telomeres — and activating the telomerase enzyme that maintains telomere length — I knew it would change lives. And it has. By helping my patients keep their telomeres long, they’ve seen incredible results. They’ve experienced benefits like having sharper memory, more energy, perfect blood sugar, and healthy hearts. In other words, they’ve extended their health span, so they’re living younger – longer. Yet, the medical establishment continues to look the other way. Instead of acknowledging this discovery, they’re stuck on turning telomere technology into another synthetic drug for Big Pharma. Why? Because that’s where the big money is. And that’s their primary goal…to profit from your health challenges. The First REAL Anti-Aging Solution Telomeres are the little caps on the end of each strand of your DNA that control how your cells age. When you are young, your telomeres are long. But every time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. Over time, your telomeres get so short they can’t protect your DNA as effectively. When a cell divides, new cells are defective. You begin to develop the signs and diseases of old age. And you dramatically increase your risk of serious diseases. But regrowing telomeres has the opposite effect. Supporting your telomeres is the first REAL solution to aging itself. In fact: People with the longest telomeres have a 54% lower risk of heart disease1 Longer telomeres protect the brain from aging and dementia2 People with longer telomeres are happier and have a better outlook on life3 Those with longer telomeres have an immune age that’s 20 years younger4 Increasing telomere length helps fight against almost all diseases of aging5 Lengthening telomeres increases lifespan by an average of five years6 I believe telomeres are the biggest medical breakthrough in my lifetime. As a pioneer in telomere science, I’ve been helping my patients protect and lengthen their telomeres for decades. I do this by helping them activate telomerase naturally. When you turn telomerase on, your telomeres gradually get longer. Your body starts creating younger cells. And by activating telomerase, you can improve and support almost every organ in your body. You can recharge your sexual desire, breathe easier, look younger and feel younger. In other words, you can reverse the aging process – and eliminate your risk for the so-called diseases of aging. I think this topic is so important I used it to wrap up my Palm Beach Anti-Aging Summit at the beautiful and historic Mar-a-Lago estate. Today, I want to share that talk with you. To watch, click this link. If you’re interested in having your telomeres tested – so you can start on the path to REAL anti-aging – call my clinic at 561-784-7852. My friendly staff will be happy to answer your questions and set you up with the most important medical test you can have. 3 Simple Steps To Make Your Telomeres Biologically Younger In the meantime, there are steps you can take right now to make your telomeres biologically younger. Here’s what I tell my patients… Stop eating processed foods. A new study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that three or more servings of “ultra-processed foods” doubled your risk of shortened telomeres.Typical processed foods include a vast array of convenience items, such as deli meats; instant soups and noodles; packaged bread; snack items; soda and energy drinks; sweetened yogurt; and breakfast cereals — even those marked “healthy.” Boost vitamin C intake. Studies confirm that raising the level of vitamin C in the cells slows down the shortening of telomeres by up to 62%.7,8 In another study, vitamin C slowed telomere shortening while increasing cellular lifespan.9But be forewarned. You’d be lucky to absorb more than 500 mg of standard vitamin C supplements in a single day. That’s why I recommend a liposomal-encapsulated ascorbic acid. Wrapping vitamin C in a tiny, fatty bubble more than doubles its absorption.10 This delivery method enables you to take 5,000 to 8,000 mg of vitamin C every day. Lower your homocysteine. This amino acid triples the speed at which your telomeres shorten. Here’s what I use with my patients (amounts are daily) to lower homocysteine: Vitamin B12 – 500 mcg Folic acid – 800 mcg Vitamin B6 – 25 mg Riboflavin (B2) – 25 mg TMG (Trimethylglycine) – 500 mg To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: Haycock P, et al. “Leucocyte telomere length and risk of cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis.” BMJ. 2014;349:g4227. Yaffe K, et al. “Telomere length and cognitive function in community-dwelling elders: findings from the Health ABC Study.” Neurobiol Aging. 2011;32(11):2055-60. Uchino B, et. al. “Social relationships and health: is feeling positive, negative, or both (ambivalent) about your social ties related to telomeres?” Health Psychol. 2012;31(6):789-96. Harley C, et al. “A natural product telomerase activator as part of a health maintenance program.” Rej Res. 2011. Gomez D, et al. “Telomere structure and telomerase in health and disease (review).” Int J Oncol. 2012;41(5):1561-9. Cawthon RM, et al. “Association between telomere length in blood and mortality in people aged 60 years or older.” Lancet. 2003; 361: 393-395. Furumoto K. et al. “Age-dependent telomere shortening is slowed down by enrichment of intracellular vitamin C via suppression of oxidative stress.” Life Science. 1998;6(11): 935-48. Shen J, et al. “Telomere length, oxidative damage, antioxidants and breast cancer risk.” Int J Cancer. 2009 Apr 1; 124(7):1637-43. Xu Q, et al. “Multivitamin use and telomere length in women.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Jun;89(6):1721-2. Prantl L, et al. Enhanced resorption of liposomal packed vitamin c monitored by ultrasound.” J Clin Med. 2020 Jun; 9(6): 1616. Richards J, et al. “Homocysteine levels and leukocyte telomere length.” Atherosclerosis. 2008 Feb 14. To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/the-most-important-medical-test-you-can-have-8520/feed/ 0 Dementia Surging Among Younger Adults at Unprecedented Rates, Study Reveals https://amazinghealthadvances.net/dementia-surging-among-younger-adults-at-unprecedented-rates-8508/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dementia-surging-among-younger-adults-at-unprecedented-rates-8508 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/dementia-surging-among-younger-adults-at-unprecedented-rates-8508/#respond Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:04:20 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=17456 News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Young minds are deteriorating faster than anticipated, with early-onset dementia diagnoses rising at an alarming rate among young adults. This growing trend is profoundly affecting working-age individuals and their families. In fact, recent findings published in Neurology Journals highlight the increasing prevalence and incidence of early-onset dementia, shedding light on the significant mental health challenges faced by those under 65. Beyond the individuals themselves, dementia takes a toll on their loved ones and society as a whole. As more young and middle-aged adults are diagnosed, the burden on our healthcare system – and its associated costs – continues to escalate. The growing global crisis of early-onset dementia Finnish researchers recently analyzed the prevalence and incidence of early-onset dementia – defined as dementia occurring before age 65 – over a span of just over a decade. Their findings revealed that incidence rates were higher than previously reported and showed a progressive increase throughout the 11-year study period. However, it’s important to note that the data was limited to two regions in Finland: Northern Savonia in Eastern Finland and Northern Ostrobothnia in the north. Further insights were provided by a systematic review published in JAMA Network Further insights were provided by a systematic review published in JAMA Network, which analyzed 95 studies on early-onset dementia. This global review found that the standardized prevalence of early-onset dementia averaged 119 cases per 100,000 individuals aged 30 to 64. Alarmingly, the incidence among individuals aged 30 to 34 showed an increase of 1.1 cases per 100,000. These findings show that early-onset dementia is not confined to Finland or specific regions but represents a growing global health challenge. Natural solutions for maintaining cognitive performance You can take steps to proactively defend against the development of early-onset dementia. A diet highlighted by Mediterranean foods, meaning wild fish, organic olives, nuts, and leafy greens, is beneficial to brain health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as organic dark chocolate, bell peppers, berries, and tomatoes, also help prevent dementia. Moreover, fish, walnuts, and other foods with omega-3 fatty acids improve brain functionality, helping to slow the progression of dementia and cognitive decline. Like other body sites, the brain needs sufficient blood flow to function at peak performance. Engage in strength training and aerobic exercises to boost blood flow to your brain. Mental stimulation also helps ward off dementia. Continue your quest for knowledge through lifelong learning. If you struggle to remember things, play cognitive training games or enroll in a class or two at your local community college. Even socialization plays a role in keeping the mind sharp and your spirit high. Engage in social activities with neighbors, family, and friends. If you are isolated, consider volunteering or joining others for Bingo Night or other local events that provide much-needed mental stimulation. Minimize the stress in your life, and you’ll find that your mind isn’t nearly as crowded. You’ll think more clearly with sufficient sleep. Engage in daily meditation for 10 minutes and practice mindfulness exercises to keep your mind sharp. Though study results are mixed, there is some evidence that herbal supplements such as turmeric (curcumin) and ginkgo biloba promote cognitive function. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake, as alcohol is a subtle poison that kills brain cells. Editor’s note: Discover the best strategies to avoid and reverse the signs of dementia, own the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: Neurology.org NIH.gov Studyfinds.org To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/dementia-surging-among-younger-adults-at-unprecedented-rates-8508/feed/ 0 Fluctuating Cholesterol Linked to Higher Risk of Dementia in Older Adults https://amazinghealthadvances.net/fluctuating-cholesterol-linked-to-higher-risk-of-dementia-in-older-adults-8483/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fluctuating-cholesterol-linked-to-higher-risk-of-dementia-in-older-adults-8483 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/fluctuating-cholesterol-linked-to-higher-risk-of-dementia-in-older-adults-8483/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:10:56 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=17353 American Academy of Neurology via News-Medical – Older adults whose cholesterol changes over time may be more likely to develop dementia than people whose cholesterol is stable, regardless of the actual cholesterol level, according to a study published in the January 29, 2025, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study does not prove that changing cholesterol causes dementia; it only shows an association. These results suggest that fluctuating cholesterol, measured annually, may be a new biomarker for identifying people at risk of dementia, providing more information than the actual cholesterol levels measured at a single time point.” Zhen Zhou, PhD, study author of Monash University in Melbourne, Australia The study involved 9,846 people with an average age of 74 who did not have dementia or other memory problems. Cholesterol levels were measured at the beginning of the study and at three following annual visits. Participants were followed for an average of 5.5 years after the third visit. They took tests of memory skills annually. Participants taking cholesterol medications, called statins, were allowed in the study unless they stopped or started taking the drugs during the measurement period for cholesterol. The participants were divided into four equal groups based on the amount of change between their first and fourth cholesterol measurements. The difference between consecutive yearly measurements was 91 mg/dL on average in the group with the largest amount of change in total cholesterol and 22 mg/dL in the group with the smallest amount of change. During the study, 509 people developed dementia. A total of 147 of the 2,408 people in the group with the largest amount of change in total cholesterol developed dementia, a rate of 11.3 per 1,000 person-years. In the group with the lowest amount of change in total cholesterol, 98 of 2,437 people developed dementia, a rate of 7.1 per 1,000 person-years. Person-years represent both the number of people in the study and the amount of time each person spends in the study. After adjusting for other factors that could affect the risk of dementia, such as age, smoking status and high blood pressure, researchers found that those in the high change group were 60% more likely to develop dementia than those in the low change group. The study also found a link between changing cholesterol levels and cognitive impairment or memory problems that did not meet the criteria for dementia. Looking at the various types of cholesterol, researchers found a link between fluctuating LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, and risk of dementia and cognitive impairment. They did not find that association with HDL, or “good” cholesterol, or triglycerides. “Older people’s cholesterol should be monitored for changes over time to help identify people who may be at risk of cognitive impairment or dementia and could benefit from interventions, which could include lifestyle changes or making sure they start or keep taking statin to prevent fluctuations in their cholesterol and potentially reduce the risk of dementia,” Zhou said. Older people’s cholesterol should be monitored for changes over time to help identify risk of cognitive impairment or dementia A limitation of the study is that while people who started or stopped taking cholesterol drugs were not included in the study to eliminate the medication-induced fluctuations in cholesterol, researchers did not have information on any changes in dosage or people who did not take their medication as prescribed, which could affect cholesterol changes. The study is supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia. Source: American Academy of Neurology Journal reference: Zhou, Z., et al. (2025). Association of Year-to-Year Lipid Variability With Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Neurology. doi.org/10.1212/wnl.0000000000210247. To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/fluctuating-cholesterol-linked-to-higher-risk-of-dementia-in-older-adults-8483/feed/ 0 Excessive Abdominal Fat Linked to “Shocking” Problem for the Brain https://amazinghealthadvances.net/excessive-abdominal-fat-linked-to-shocking-problem-for-brain-8441/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=excessive-abdominal-fat-linked-to-shocking-problem-for-brain-8441 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/excessive-abdominal-fat-linked-to-shocking-problem-for-brain-8441/#respond Fri, 14 Feb 2025 06:11:46 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=16996 Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Obesity is not an unusual phenomenon in the Western world. For example, in the United States, you’re actually MORE likely to meet a person carrying around extra body fat than not, with about 75% of adult males, 60% of adult females, and 30% of children falling into the overweight or obese category. These figures are shocking, to say the least. But perhaps more alarming is recent research revealing how excess body fat impacts the brain. Studies have found that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with changes in brain structure and function across all ages. In children, higher BMI correlates with reduced working memory performance and smaller gray matter volume in areas related to memory and cognitive control. Similarly, research on adults shows that higher BMI and waist-to-hip ratios are linked to overall gray matter atrophy, with specific reductions in regions tied to cognition and reward. In short, carrying extra body fat doesn’t just affect physical health – it may be shrinking the brain. Research reveals the shocking association between obesity and brain health The researchers of a study published in Neurology analyzed brain MRI imaging of 9,652 people, 19% of whom were obese or overweight (they measured body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and total fat mass to help determine this). It turns out that having a high BMI plus a high waist-to-hip ratio (indicating a greater amount of abdominal fat) makes you more likely to have lower gray matter volume in your brain. If you’re wondering, gray matter contains a majority of the nerve cells in your brain and is important for everything from self-control to physical movement. Loss of gray matter and overall brain shrinkage are associated with things like dementia and other cognitive health problems. Incredibly, these changes remained even after the researchers adjusted for other factors known to affect brain mass, including age, physical activity levels, high blood pressure, and smoking. They conclude: “The combination of heightened BMI and WHR may be an important risk factor for gray matter atrophy.” While the researchers acknowledge that they have a bit of the “chicken or the egg” conundrum – ‘Did the brain shrinkage lead to obesity or did obesity lead to brain shrinkage?’ – we certainly think it’s reasonable to assume the latter, considering that we know so many other ways being overweight can impact brain health and mental function. The connection between BMI, brain structure, and cognitive performance in children In even more recent research, scientists explored the effect of obesity on children’s brain health. They found that higher BMI was associated with poorer working memory performance and smaller gray matter volumes in key brain areas, including the left superior frontal gyrus, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, and medial orbital frontal cortex. Children with higher BMI also showed weaker activation in the caudate, amygdala, and other brain regions involved in memory tasks. Specifically, the dysfunction in the caudate appeared to mediate the relationship between higher BMI and lower working memory accuracy. This study on children supports the growing body of evidence that higher body fat not only affects physical health but also impacts brain function. Interestingly, these brain changes were linked to poorer memory abilities, suggesting that obesity in childhood may have long-term implications for cognitive development. Other surprising ways abdominal fat impacts your brain function Having excess body fat is linked with an increased risk for serious health conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. But it also can hurt your head, too! For instance, being overweight has been shown to: Lead to a “tolerance” to sugary and fried foods (much like people who use drugs become tolerant to their drug of choice and need more and more of it to get the same high-inducing effects), which is believed to be a major driver of food addiction Decrease the size of a part of the brain called the orbitofrontal cortex (necessary for controlling impulsivity), which can lead to uncontrolled eating Impair memory, likely due to hormones released by fat cells that trigger inflammation and damage tissues The takeaway here is simple and direct: maintaining lean body weight is good for you from head to toe. So, commit to a balanced whole foods (organic) diet, stay physically active – regularly, and do everything you can to reduce the level of (chronic) stress you experience. Remember, you deserve to be happy, healthy, and energetic – all the days of your life. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Neurology.org Sciencedaily.com Livescience.com To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/excessive-abdominal-fat-linked-to-shocking-problem-for-brain-8441/feed/ 0 Bali Secret Grows New Brain Cells https://amazinghealthadvances.net/bali-secret-grows-new-brain-cells-8435/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bali-secret-grows-new-brain-cells-8435 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/bali-secret-grows-new-brain-cells-8435/#respond Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:32:15 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=16970 Al Sears, MD, CNS – When I was in Bali, I learned that elephants – which are well known for their long and impressive memories – go to great lengths to seek out gotu kola leaves. It’s one of their favorite foods. Could this plant be the reason why elephants never forget? Who knows? What we do know is that research proves gotu kola can enhance your brain power. Let me explain… For decades, scientists believed that the adult human brain couldn’t grow new brain cells. They thought we were born with all the brain cells we’ll ever have – and that when they were gone, they were gone for good. They thought we were born with all the brain cells we’ll ever have However, a breakthrough study by researchers at Princeton University proved the opposite. That study, published in the prestigious Journal of Science, revealed the continuous growth of new brain cells in adult macaque monkeys. Then, a follow-up study published in the journal Cell found that humans also produce new neurons. And that – even in old age – your brain still produces around 700 new neurons a day.[i] In other words, despite what “medical experts” may tell you, your memory and cognitive performance don’t have to decline. In fact, they can actually improve as you age. And one of the best ways to boost your brain performance is with gotu kola, or Centella asiatica. Research shows it can revitalize your brain and nervous system and help you feel sharp and alert as it recharges your memory. Research shows it can revitalize your brain and nervous system In a number of studies, gotu kola enhanced memory performance, problem-solving abilities, intelligence, and mental energy.[ii] A landmark study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that gotu kola stimulates the growth of brain cells…[iii] While additional studies proved that gotu kola: [iv],[v],[vi],[vii] Improves cognitive function – even in cognitively impaired older adults Doubles how quickly and accurately you process information Increases problem-solving skills up to 45% Improves reading skills up to 29% Significantly boosts your attention span Increases concentration Further studies also give us lots of evidence that gotu kola is a powerful antioxidant and brain protector, as well as a nerve growth factor. Studies show it may also help stop plaque formation in Alzheimer’s disease and prevent dopamine neurotoxicity in Parkinson’s.[viii],[ix] I’ve recommended gotu kola for years as a way to treat stroke victims suffering from stroke-related dementia. A recent study backs up what I learned from traditional healers… According to this study from Indonesia, where gotu kola is used commonly in both traditional and mainstream medicine, concluded that therapy with an extract of the herb at 750 mg per day for six weeks was “effective in improving cognitive impairment after stroke.” The extract is called TTFCA, which stands for triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica. This contains gotu kola’s most potent components. And it has shown special strength in improving memory.[x] Other studies have shown gotu kola is highly effective at preventing strokes in the first place – by promoting healthy veins and combatting high blood pressure. TTFCA improves the dilatation of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure and improves blood flow throughout your body – from the largest veins to the tiniest of capillaries.[xi] When choosing a gotu kola supplement, look for one with more of the active components. Choose one that is standardized to the asiaticosides or asiatic acid. 3 Ways You Can Improve Your Memory with Gotu Kola I recommend my patients use gotu kola in three ways. As an extract. Take 10 to 20 ml per day. As a supplement. When choosing a gotu kola supplement, look for one with more of the active components. Select one that is standardized to the asiaticosides or asiatic acid. I recommend taking 300 mg a day. As a dried herb. One of my favorite ways to use gotu kola is by making a cup of tea. Here’s how: Measure 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 6 to 8 grams) of dried gotu kola into a cup. Cover with boiling water and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Strain, then sweeten with organic honey. Enjoy three cups a day. [i] Spalding K, et al. “Dynamics of hippocampal neurogenesis in adult humans.” Cell. 2013 Jun 6; 153(6):1219–1227. [ii] Prakash A, Kumar A. “Mitoprotective effect of Centella asiatica against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity in rats: possible relevance to its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptosis mechanism.” Neurol Sci. 2013 Aug;34(8):1403-9. [iii] Soumyanath A, et al. “Centella asiatica accelerates nerve regeneration upon oral administration and contains multiple active fractions increasing neurite elongation in-vitro.” J Pharmacy Pharmacol. 2005;57(9):1221–1229. [iv] Shinomol GK, et al. “Exploring the role of ‘Brahmi’ (Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica) in brain function and therapy.” Recent Pat Endocr Metab Immune Drug Discov. 2011;5(1):51-57. [v] Xu Y, et al. “Gotu kola (Centella Asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide.” J Alzheimers Dis. 2008 Apr;13(3):341-9. [vi] Tiwari S, et al. “Effect of Centella asiatica on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other common age-related clinical problems.” Dig J Nanomater Bio. 2008;3:215–220. [vii] Wattanathorn J, et al. “Positive modulation of cognition and mood in the healthy elderly volunteer following the administration of Centella asiatica.” J Ethnopharmacol. 2008;116(2):325-332. [viii] Orhan I. “Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From traditional medicine to modern medicine with neuroprotective potential.” eCAM. 2012;2012:946259. [ix] Xu Y, et al. “Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide.” J Alzheimers Dis. 2008 Apr; 13(3):341-9. [x] Farhana KM, Malueka RG, et al. “Effectiveness of gotu kola extract 750 mg and 1000 mg compared with folic acid 3 mg in improving vascular cognitive impairment after stroke.” eCAM. 2016: 2795915. [xi] Incandela L, et al. “Total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica in chronic venous insufficiency and in high-perfusion microangiopathy.” Angiology. 2001 Oct.;52 Suppl 2:S9-13. To read the original article click here.

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]]> https://amazinghealthadvances.net/bali-secret-grows-new-brain-cells-8435/feed/ 0 Ancient Herb Shows Promise in Fighting Dementia https://amazinghealthadvances.net/ancient-herb-shows-promise-in-fighting-dementia-8398/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ancient-herb-shows-promise-in-fighting-dementia-8398 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/ancient-herb-shows-promise-in-fighting-dementia-8398/#respond Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:16:14 +0000 https://amazinghealthadvances.net/?p=16769 Osaka Metropolitan University via News-Medical – Attempts to discover a breakthrough dementia drug might be drawing attention these days, but traditional medicinal products can offer hints for preventive medicine. Traditional medicinal products can offer hints for preventive medicine A research group led by Specially Appointed Professor Takami Tomiyama of Osaka Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Medicine has found that administering the dried seeds of a type of jujube called Ziziphus jujuba Miller var. spinosa, used as a medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine, holds promise in restoring cognitive and motor function in model mice. By administering hot water extracts of Zizyphi spinosi semen to model mice with Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia with Lewy bodies, the team found that cognitive and motor functions were restored. Furthermore, when the seeds were simply crushed into powder and administered to the model mice, the team discovered that the cognitive function of the model mice recovered to a level above that of control mice. In addition, the powders apparently suppressed cellular aging in older mice and improved their cognitive function to a similar level as younger mice. Previously, members of the research team reported separately that the pathology of dementia in model mice improved with cognitive and motor functions restored after using the Hawaiian herb mamaki and the Chinese herb Acorus gramineus. “The results of our research will hopefully make it possible to develop dementia prevention products that middle-aged and elderly people can take at their own discretion.” -Takami Tomiyama, Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University The findings are currently available as a reviewed preprint in eLife. Source: Osaka Metropolitan University Journal reference: Umeda, T., et al. (2024) Simply crushed Zizyphi spinosi semen prevents neurodegenerative diseases and reverses age-related cognitive decline in mice. doi.org/10.7554/elife.100737.1. To read the original article click here.

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