Nutrition and Dietary Supplements for Alzheimer's Disease

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Damage caused by free radicals is thought to play a major role in the development of AD. Many researchers have investigated whether antioxidants (agents known to scavenge free radicals) may ease the symptoms of dementia, increase the life span of those with AD, and help prevent the disease. Two antioxidants in particular, vitamins E and C, have shown promise in both the prevention and treatment of the disease. Research on other supplements is less convincing.

Vitamin E and Vitamin C for Alzheimer's

Vitamin E dissolves in fat, readily enters the brain, and helps slow down the cell damage that occurs naturally with age. In a well-designed study involving 341 people with AD who were followed for 2 years, researchers found that people who took vitamin E supplements had improvement in their symptoms and increased survival rates compared to those who took placebo.

Two large trials suggest that vitamins E and C may prevent the onset of AD, improve cognitive skills in healthy individuals, and decrease the symptoms of dementia. In one of the studies, more than 600 healthy individuals were followed for an average of 4 years. A total of 91 people developed AD, but none of the participants who took vitamin E or C supplements developed the disease.

SAM-e for Alzheimer's (S-adenosylmethionine)

SAM-e is a naturally occurring compound that increases the body's levels of serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. Clinical studies suggest that people with AD and depression have depleted levels of SAM-e in their brain tissue. While it has been reported that some people with AD have improved cognitive function from SAM-e supplementation, further studies are needed to determine how safe and effective this supplement may be for individuals with the disease.

Beta-carotene and Vitamin A for Alzheimer's

Preliminary studies suggest that levels of vitamin A and its precursor, beta-carotene, may be significantly lower in people with AD compared to healthy individuals, but the effects of supplementation have not been studied.

Vitamin B9 (Folate) and Vitamin B12 for Alzheimer's

Folate is a substance critical to the health of the nervous system and to a process that clears homocysteine from the blood. Homocysteine is a body chemical that contributes to chronic illness such as heart disease, depression, and AD. Elevated levels of homocysteine and decreased levels of both folate and vitamin B12 have been found in people with AD, but again, the benefits of supplementation for dementia are unknown.

Acetyl-L-carnitine for Alzheimer's

In addition to being structurally similar to the brain chemical acetylcholine, acetyl-L-carnitine is a scavenger of free radicals and is involved in the growth of brain cells. Several studies have examined the role of acetyl-L-carnitine in treating AD, but results have been conflicting. For example, one trial suggests that this supplement may help prevent the progression of AD in the early stages of the disease, but it may worsen symptoms in later stages of the disease. Use of this supplement for AD should be avoided, therefore, until more information is available. Reported side effects include increased appetite, body odor, and rashes.

Phosphatidylserine (PS) for Alzheimer's

Red Wine and Grape Juice for Alzheimer's

Resveratrol, a flavonoid or plant substance found in red wine and grape juice, is an antioxidant that may benefit people with AD. Because the alcohol in red wine may contribute to falls, interactions with medications, and sleepiness, it is not recommended for those with the condition.

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Reviewed: 03/2006