Nutritional supplement May Aid in Alzheimer’s, New Research Reveals

Lisa Franchi January 11, 2013

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Alzheimer is one of the many diseases that have no cure until today. Nevertheless, there are a variety of preventable measures that can be done to address the condition. In the latest study published in the FASEB Journal, scientists found that taking supplements is one way to protect ourselves from developing Alzheimer’s.

A research team from Northwestern and U.Va.’s School of Medicine conducted a study to investigate the effectiveness of a naturally-occurring compound in protecting the brain from beta amyloid – harmful toxins that are known to cause Alzheimer’s.

The compound, called chiro-inositol was found to effectively enhance the insulin’s ability to prevent the beta amyloid toxins from damaging neurons. Experts believe that the loss of neurons is responsible for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Dr. Joseph Larner, one of the researchers and a pharmacology professor emeritus at the U.Va. University, insulin is needed by the muscles, liver and fats to stimulate glucose metabolism. In the case of Alzheimer’s though, the brain does not properly utilise glucose. In their research, Dr Larner and his team found that the brain’s inability to utilise glucose is caused by insulin resistance. Said insulin resistance in the brain has been referred to as type 3 diabetes, Dr Larner adds.

How Chiro-inositol Works

This natural compound is currently used as one of the main ingredients in many supplement products. Dietary resources of chiro-inositol include buckwheat, fig leaf melon and carob. Years of research suggest that the compound is safe. Dr Larner said he himself is taking the supplement.

David Brautigan, professor of microbiology, immunology and cancer biology at the U.Va. University referred chiro-inositol as a ‘nutraceutical’ that sensitises the brain to the effects of insulin. This enhances its ability to process glucose and protect neurons against destructive substances.

More Interesting Findings

Another key finding in the study was that insulin is in the brain. For the past years, there has been an ongoing debate among scientists about whether or not insulin is produced in the brain. According to the researchers, it was believed that the utilisation of glucose in the brain is not regulated by insulin. “There may even be special forms of insulin in the brain to stimulate neurons and other cells”, added Michael Thorner, David C. Harrison Medical Teaching Professor of Internal Medicine at U.Va’s.

No one wants to have Alzheimer’s. But for many people, the disease appears to be inevitable. Fortunately, the new findings could pave the way for safer and more effective treatments.

 

Dear Readers,

Could these new findings allow for alternative therapies and further understanding?

Share your thoughts and ideas below.

 

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Nutritional Supplement May Help Prevent Alzheimer’s, U.Va. Research Suggests