Alzheimer's disease, a serious form of dementia that usually occurs in older people, is characterized by the inability of the individual to control thought, memory and language. There is no treatment for this condition, although medications may help manage the symptoms for a certain period of time. Some vitamins may help improve the brain functioning and prevent or delay the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are a group of eight vitamins that play a very important role in the growth, development and normal functioning of the body. Three of the B vitamins: vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid, may also help prevent Alzheimer's disease and dementia by slowing down the rate of brain atrophy in individuals over 70 years of age and by regulating the levels of a chemical known homocystiene, elevated levels of which have been associated with Alzheimer's. In fact, according to an article published by Medical News Today in September 2010, treating individuals with high doses of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid for 24 months reduced brain shrinkage by almost 50 percent.
B vitamins can be obtained from foods such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs and milk products. However, high doses of B vitamins needed for preventing Alzheimer's disease can be easily obtained from dietary supplements available at local pharmacies. Supplements are usually well tolerated in the body, although high doses may lead to upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea.
B vitamins can be obtained from foods such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs and milk products. However, high doses of B vitamins needed for preventing Alzheimer's disease can be easily obtained from dietary supplements available at local pharmacies. Supplements are usually well tolerated in the body, although high doses may lead to upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea.
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Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C and Vitamin E are two vitamins with antioxidant properties that have the ability to neutralize free radicals formed in the body. An article published by USA Today in January 2004 reports that taking vitamin C and vitamin E supplements together may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by slowing down the underlying pathogenesis of the disease. The article further states that researchers recommend 400 to 1,000 IU of vitamin E and 500 to 1,500 milligrams of vitamin C to prevent this condition. While high doses of vitamin C may lead to mild side effects such as nausea and upset stomach, high doses of vitamin E can lead to heart disease. Thus although, vitamin C and E supplements are available in the pharmacy without a prescription, it is very important to talk to a physician before starting these supplements.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be obtained from foods such as fish, oysters, fortified cereals and dairy products. Significant amounts of vitamin D can also be produced by the body when exposed to sunlight for about 10 minutes per day. However, fear of sun cancer, indoor lifestyles and prolonged winters can lead to reduced levels of vitamin D in the body. An article published by The Telegraph in January 2009 says that individuals with low levels of vitamin D were twice as likely to have impaired mental faculties and be more susceptible illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin D supplements may thus be recommended for the middle-aged and elderly population that is at risk of developing this condition. High doses of vitamin D supplements can lead to vomiting, kidney stones and vomiting.
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