Alzheimer's Linked To Inflammation | Inflammation Awareness Now

Alzheimer’s Linked To Inflammation

Published by Lois on September 10th, 2008

“In a new study published in the April issue of the Journal of Neuroscience, researchers at the Alzheimer Research Laboratory at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine report finding the molecules that play a critical role in making the brain think it is under attack from these plaques, triggering immune cells in the brain. The inflammation mediated by these cells speeds up the debilitating consequences of AD. With the discovery of these molecules, researchers say new therapies could be devised aimed at blocking their action to slow down progression of AD.”

There has been evidence of this in the past, but only in the latest research studies has it been proven that inflammation plays a key role in Alzheimer’s. The study of Alzheimer’s has shown that the brain is destroyed by a build up of a particular protein called amyloid beta in Alzheimer’s patients. This build up causes inflammation which leads to the destruction of nerve cells. The studies have shown that if the protein can be prevented from adhering to each other, Alzheimer’s can be prevented.

The effect of preventing damage in the brain by the proteins is a big advancement in Alzheimer’s research.Â Previously drugs used to treat the disease served to prolong the functioning of the nerve cells but failed to prevent them from being damaged.

One of the simplest ways to reduce inflammation in the body is with an anti-inflammatory diet. Everyone has read the news that Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for good health, but many people are not aware of the inflammatory cascade that results from an imbalance of these essential fatty acids.

For those who are looking to improve the outlook for an Alzheimer’s patient it is critical information. Omega-6 fatty acids must be kept in balance and in the western diet, the extreme imbalance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 (25:1 to as high as 35:1) has led to an astonishing rise in inflammatory diseases.

The effects of inflammation in the body are linked to many diseases. Science now understands how inflammation causes the illnesses that Americans of all ages are experiencing including juvenile diabetes that is striking children at a younger age each year.

Inflammation is typically the body’s response to an invading illness or infection. It happens when white blood cells try to protect the body from infection or an irritation. Usually inflammation is a good sign that your body is fighting off an infection; in fact, it is doing exactly what the immune system is supposed to be doing. However, there are times when the body produces inflammation when it is not necessary or even healthy.

If you have a family member that is suffering from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, ask your doctor about these recent findings and whether your loved one could be treated with an anti-inflammatory diet. There are numerous studies on human patients that show the importance of reducing inflammation. Take a proactive approach for your loved ones to help them create an inflammation-free body to end this devastating illness.

To Your Health!

Lois Smithers