By Dr. Baker (ND)
Studies suggest that dementia and Alzheimer's disease may often be related to underlying imbalances in the body. Many of these imbalances can be nutritional, hormonal, metabolic, or environmental. Understanding these factors may help in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Nutritional Causes of Dementia
Cholesterol Levels and Dementia Risk
Cholesterol levels have been linked to brain health. A 2019 study found that higher levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), known as "good cholesterol," were associated with a lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Conversely, a 2022 study suggested that elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and reduced levels of HDL-C were associated with an increased risk of developing Lewy body dementia.
We can assess your cholesterol profile and provide personalized dietary recommendations to help manage cholesterol levels and support brain health.
Vitamin B12, Folate, and Homocysteine Levels
B vitamins play a crucial role in brain function. A 2022 study found that elevated levels of homocysteine and lower levels of vitamin B12 were associated with various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
Our clinic offers a comprehensive nutritional panel to test whether you are getting enough of these essential nutrients and others. Supplementation and dietary adjustments are strategies that may support your cognitive health.
Hormonal Factors Related to Dementia
Thyroid Function and Cognitive Decline
Studies have found several hormones that may be related to dementia. A 2016 study indicated that individuals with a thyroid imbalance had an increased risk of developing dementia. This may suggest that thyroid hormone imbalances may impact cognitive function.
It's important to complete a full hormone panel to identify any hormonal imbalances. Our clinic can help assess your thyroid function and explore natural approaches to support hormonal balance.
Cortisol Levels and Stress
Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, may also play a role in cognitive health. A 2013 study found that elevated cortisol levels were associated with dementia, independently of genetic factors. This suggests that chronic stress may contribute to cognitive decline.
We offer strategies to manage stress and natural therapies aimed at balancing cortisol levels, which may support cognitive function.
Metabolic Factors Related to Dementia
Blood Sugar
Studies have found that metabolism may be related to dementia. For example, a 2015 study found that higher levels of HbA1c, a marker of long-term blood glucose control, were associated with an increased risk of developing dementia in the elderly. Another 2022 study suggested that patients with diabetes who had uncontrolled blood glucose levels had higher odds of subjective cognitive decline.
Our clinic can complete a metabolic panel to assess factors related to blood glucose control and provide guidance on managing blood sugar levels through diet and lifestyle changes.
Insulin Levels and Vascular Health
Insulin resistance and elevated insulin levels may also impact brain health. A 2017 study found that hypertension and high insulin levels posed threats to the small vessels in the brain, potentially leading to white matter changes associated with cognitive decline.
We can evaluate your insulin levels and cardiovascular health to develop strategies aimed at reducing vascular risks.
Environmental Factors and Dementia
Heavy Metal Exposure
Environmental toxins like cadmium, arsenic, aluminum, and mercury have been linked to cognitive decline. A 2021 study found that higher cadmium exposure was associated with greater cognitive decline in older adults. Similarly, a 2018 study reported that patients with Alzheimer's disease had elevated levels of aluminum, mercury, and cadmium in their blood compared to controls.
Our clinic can conduct testing for heavy metals and provide detoxification strategies to help reduce exposure to environmental toxins.
Lifestyle Factors Related to Dementia
Hypertension and Brain Health
High blood pressure is a known risk factor for cognitive decline. The 2017 study also emphasized the importance of managing hypertension to protect the small vessels in the brain.
We can help you develop natural approaches to manage blood pressure, including dietary adjustments, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle modifications.
Natural Therapies for Dementia
The therapies used will depend on what our testing panels reveal. After identifying deficiencies or imbalances, they can be addressed through diet, supplementation, lifestyle changes, or other natural therapies. Our clinic tailors a combination of therapies based on your individual results to support cognitive health.
Other Dementia Risk Factors
A variety of risk factors have been associated with cognitive decline:
Age: Advanced age is a significant risk factor.
Genetics: Family history may play a role.
Cardiovascular Health: Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are linked to dementia.
Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can increase risk.
At our clinic, we can perform physical exams and diagnostic testing to screen for these underlying risk factors and develop personalized strategies to address them.
Types of Dementia
The most common types of dementia include:
Alzheimer's Disease: Characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline.
Vascular Dementia: Resulting from reduced blood flow to the brain.
Lewy Body Dementia: Marked by abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies in the brain.
Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.
Understanding the type of dementia is crucial for developing an effective management plan.
What is Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Individuals with dementia may experience a decline in cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty communicating, impaired reasoning, and changes in mood or behavior.
Conclusion
Before initiating any treatment, it's crucial to first conduct comprehensive testing to identify any underlying imbalances. This testing helps ensure that the appropriate treatments are chosen and that the correct interventions are implemented. Addressing deficiencies or imbalances without proper diagnosis could lead to unintended side effects.
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are complex conditions often associated with various imbalances in the body. By identifying the nutritional, hormonal, metabolic, and environmental factors involved, we can create individualized treatment plans.
At our clinic, we consider a wide range of factors when developing treatment plans. Our approach includes thorough blood testing, dietary evaluations, and personalized therapies that aim to target the root causes of cognitive decline, promoting brain health.
