Alzheimer's disease

Since it was shown that increased oxidative stress is applied in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, there were discussions about the therapeutic use of antioxidants. Until now, there are several studies which show that the degree of lipid peroxidation is higher not only in brain tissue, but also plasma and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Correspondingly, it is found in these patients and decreased levels of antioxidants, which are capable of preventing lipoperoxidation.

High dose combination of vitamins E and C reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. They may not however be used in multivitamin tablets, otherwise everybody gets their antioxidant capacity, which effectively fight free radicals in the body. U.S. scientists suggest that people receiving high doses of vitamin E and C were 78% lower risk of development of negative effects associated with the disease of old age.

It is believed that vitamin B-12 and folic acid are involved in the pathogenesis of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD), whereas the absence of both of these vitamins may have serious neurological effects, including confusion and memory loss. This review briefly summarizes the main studies on vitamin B12, folic acid and AD in the literature. Studies from various countries show that low levels of vitamin B12, or its absence is more frequently found in patients with AD than in patients without dementia.

Vitamin E is likely to become a welcome helper in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. A risk factor is oxidative stress and vitamin E is known to act as an antioxidant. By University of Pennsylvania, has announced publicly the results of their professional studies.

Vitamin E prevents oxidation of lipids in brain and cerebrospinal fluid. Vitamin E is a new and efficient means for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Although the human brain represents less than 2% of body weight, consumes more than 1/4 of all body oxygen.