by Dr Vishakha Mahajan, Research & Innovation Scientist, The cGP Lab.
e: vishakha.mahajan@thecgplab.com
We've all experienced ‘senior moments’, forgetting why you entered a room or where you put your car keys. While these occasional lapses are common, it's essential to differentiate them from the more serious concerns of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The good news is that the future isn't set in stone. Making minor, positive tweaks to your daily life can teach ageing neurons new tricks and build a neurological reserve. Taking steps towards prevention is one of the most powerful gifts you can give your future self.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: The Current Facts and Figures
The rising tide of dementia and Alzheimer's disease demands our attention. As the Alzheimer's Association reports, these conditions are rapidly evolving into global health crises. The infographic below highlights key facts and statistics.
What is considered a natural remedy?
Natural remedies refer to therapeutic treatments and interventions derived from natural sources. Natural modalities provide a safer means to slow brain ageing and disease progression.
Major categories include:
- Phytotherapy: Ginseng, omega-3s, ginkgo biloba extract, and turmeric to improve cognitive function, memory and focus.
- Mind-Body Practices: Meditation, yoga, and tai chi for stress reduction and mental clarity.
- Healing Systems: Acupuncture and Ayurvedic strategies to benefit circulation or energy pathways tied to neurological health.
When applied appropriately, natural remedies for Alzheimer's and dementia may offer cognitive benefits with fewer adverse effects than prescription drugs.
The efficacy of alternative treatments for dementia patients
When someone we care for suffers symptoms of dementia, it’s only natural we seek anything that may ease their confusion or improve cognitive resilience. Research suggests incorporating alternative medicine, herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and calming practices alongside traditional treatment plans may benefit brain function and relieve dementia symptoms. Findings indicate carefully personalised protocols blending alternative therapies with prescription medications, caregiver support, and social engagement may stabilise or slow cognitive impairment and improve quality of life.
12 natural remedies to treat dementia
As memory loss worsens, fear and questions arise. Yet emerging research offers hope - studies suggest up to 40% of dementia cases may be delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before commencing alternative treatment.
Exercising your brain
Just as lifting weights builds brawn, brain training boosts cognitive performance. Activities requiring focused thinking - like puzzles, strategic games, or learning new skills - can thicken grey matter responsible for memory, logic, and concentration.
Eating a healthy diet
A healthy diet rich in leafy greens, berries, whole grains, fish, nuts, and olive oil may help prevent dementia. Antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamins E and C, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids nourish neural integrity, counteracting inflammation and oxidative damage contributing to cognitive decline.
Managing vascular risk factors
Healthy blood flow is critical for vital nutrients reaching the brain. A brain chemical called cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) plays a significant role in this process. It relaxes blood vessels, improves circulation, and facilitates connections in the brain. cGP also regulates the activity of IGF-1, a protein vital for brain cell health and growth that diminishes as we age. cGPMAX ® supplements counteract this issue by replenishing declining levels and supporting neurological health.
Keeping physically active
Regular physical exercise, including cardio and strength training, encourages neuroplasticity and cognitive ability, reducing dementia risk by up to 50%. Beyond heart health, breaking a sweat boosts cerebral blood supply, enhancing metabolic function and triggering the release of a protein called BDNF. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor supports connections between brain cells, essential for learning and forming long-term memories.
Limiting environmental risk
Chronic exposure to environmental toxins such as air pollution, mould, heavy metals, and biotoxins can pose a significant risk. Toxins can accumulate in the body, contributing to inflammation and oxidative damage in the brain, putatively increasing cognitive impairment and risk of developing dementia.
Socialising regularly
Social isolation can negatively impact the ageing brain, highlighting the vital role of regular social interaction. Engaging in stimulating and collaborative activities, such as joining community groups, volunteering, or pursuing shared hobbies, can benefit cognitive function, well-being and a sense of belonging.
Taking supplements
Emerging research suggests supplemental bioactives could help sustain cognitive faculties over the lifespan. Introducing cGPMAX® Brain Health - specially formulated supplements designed to replenish waning cGP levels that naturally diminish as we age. cGPMAX® Brain Health drives your neurochemistry to synthesise sufficient IGF-1, stimulating the cerebral support pathways tied to resilience, clarity, and recall.
Acupuncture therapy
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that may be an effective treatment for dementia patients. Early findings suggest acupuncture’s potential to increase cerebral blood supply while reducing cellular inflammation - two processes tied to dementia development.
Keeping a consistent sleep schedule
Adequate sleep is crucial for various physiological and cognitive functions. The brain clears neurotoxic protein buildup during deep sleep and solidifies memory consolidation. Good sleep hygiene can significantly improve sleep quality and fortify neurological and mental health.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene
Poor oral health can cause chronic inflammation that impacts the brain. Bacteria and cytokines from gum disease can essentially ‘leak’ along nerve channels or into the bloodstream. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular dental visits may contribute to a reduced risk of dementia.
Minimising stress
Chronic stress can harm neural plasticity. The stress hormone cortisol overstimulates the amygdala, hindering learning, mental acuity and decision-making. Techniques like meditation and spending time in nature can help reduce stress and potentially prevent cognitive decline.
Music therapy
Auditory therapies stimulate and exercise neurological pathways that may have been progressively otherwise abandoned in dementia patients. Structured music listening tickles key sensory neuronal clusters in ways that can temporarily yet meaningfully improve daily functions like concentration, interaction and relaxation.
How cGPMAX® Brain Health supports the prevention of cognitive decline
cGPMAX® Brain Health is scientifically proven to restore the body’s cGP levels and support healthy ageing and well-being. Experience the transformative power of cGPMAX® and safeguard your cognitive vitality well into your golden years.
References:
1. Alzheimer's disease stands as the predominant form of dementia, attributing up to 60–70% of reported cases.
2. Worldwide, over 55 million people are currently living with dementia, making it the 7th leading cause of death globally.
3. The lifetime risk for developing Alzheimer's disease is 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men likely to be diagnosed at 45.
4. 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.
5. patients aged 65+ survive an average of 4-8 years post-diagnosis.
6. Warning signs: https://alzheimers.org.nz/about-dementia/10-warning-signs/