Alzheimer's: Can You Reduce or Delay Onset?

Over the last year or so, I have had many patients ask me about early-onset Alzheimer’s disease for them or their parents. Many want to know if there is something acupuncture and/or herbs can do.

There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but research shows that making lifestyle changes can reduce or delay the onset of Alzheimer's.

We all know that a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and eating inflammatory foods (processed, sugar, etc.) can contribute to a slew of health problems, including Alzheimer’s. But let's talk about some lesser-known things that may impact cognitive decline, what research says, and how you may be able to help naturally.

Level A research shows that:

  1. Not thinking or using your brain may accelerate neurodegeneration. Mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles, reading books, playing chess, etc. should be encouraged. I’m really surprised at how many people just don’t read anymore. So, use your brain!
  2. There is a lot of great Level-A research on diabetes as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s. So many people are pre-diabetic and don’t realize it. Check your lipid panel, which can help your doctor identify risk factors for diabetes. Also, check your blood glucose and A1c. Know your numbers! If you are normal but on the high end of normal, that’s not normal.
  3. Head trauma, depression, and stress can also be risk factors for Alzheimer's disease.

Level B research shows that:

  1. Frailty is a risk factor for Alzheimer's. Stay healthy and strong late in life. Lift light weights to medium weights.
  2. Low Vitamin C in the diet may be a risk factor. Supplements can help.

Alzheimer’s disease is on the rise, and so is pharmaceutical drug use in the United States. Many studies and research have been conducted on some of the top medications that impact brain memory function. Chronic use of any of these drugs has a very strong impact on neurodegeneration.

  • Anti-anxiety drugs such as Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin.
  • Antidepressant drugs such as Elavil, Anafranil, Asendin, Norpramin, and Pamelor.
  • Narcotic painkillers
  • Hypertension drugs (Beta-blockers)
  • Sleeping aids (non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics) like Ambien, Sonata, and Lunesta.
  • Anticholinergics

Do you have constipation, loose stools, IBS or IBD, acid reflux, celiac disease, or other digestive issues? The gut and brain work closely together. Make sure your gut is healthy. A good probiotic and prebiotic will help. Also, eat fermented foods. Get fiber from fruits, veggies, and whole grains, and stay hydrated. Managing your stress will also help with your gut health.

Flavonoids such as green tea, dark berries, and resveratrol can help the brain change by the gut microbiome that starts to react to the flavonoids by dampening neuroinflammation. Also, studies have shown that curcumin can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce neuroinflammation.

Last but certainly not least, acupuncture and herbal formulas can help with the symptoms. Our goal as acupuncturists is to move stagnant blood when working with the early onset of Alzheimer's, nourishing the body and the brain.

There is fascinating ongoing research on Alzheimer's, and my hope is that they will find new ways to help battle this disease naturally.