Thursday, January 2, 2014

Vitamins and Alzheimer's

Recently a study was published about the beneficial effects of Vitamin E in Alzheimer's patients. Does this mean we should all start taking Vitamin E? I would strongly say no.

First, in the recent study, 2000U of vitamin E daily did slow deterioration of motor activities (such as dressing, eating, etc) but unfortunately had no effects on cognition or thinking. As well, the patients studies were all moderate to advanced Alzheimer patients; it is unlikely treatment will be preventative.

Two other studies are worth mentioning. In the first, done in 2005, Vitamin E supplementation in normal adults was associated with an increased mortality or death rate. And in 2012, patients given anti-oxidants actually deteriorated faster than those given placebo.

Once again, a healthy diet, plenty of greens, exercise (both mental and physical) are the keys to productive and healthy aging!

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