Nutrition Facts with Dr. Greger
Supplements for Preventing Alzheimer’s
Nov 7, 2024
Discover the surprising truth about dietary supplements and their role in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. The discussion highlights research revealing that some supplements may have minimal benefits, while others could potentially worsen conditions. It emphasizes the vital role of lifestyle changes over reliance on supplements for maintaining cognitive health. Vitamin E, selenium, and multivitamins are put under the microscope, urging listeners to prioritize holistic approaches for better brain health.
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Quick takeaways
- Research indicates that vitamin E supplements do not prevent Alzheimer's, contrasting with positive results from food sources of the vitamin.
- Studies on other antioxidants like vitamins C and beta-carotene reveal inconsistent cognitive benefits, suggesting supplements may not significantly impact dementia prevention.
Deep dives
The Ineffectiveness of Antioxidant Supplements for Alzheimer's Prevention
Recent research indicates that antioxidant supplements, particularly vitamin E, do not effectively prevent Alzheimer's disease. While studies have shown that a higher intake of vitamin E from food is associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's, the same cannot be said for vitamin E from supplements, as large-scale trials involving over 7,500 older men revealed no protective benefits. Additionally, trials with Alzheimer's patients showed no significant cognitive benefits from vitamin E, with some analyses suggesting it might even be detrimental in certain cases. This lack of efficacy highlights the need for further research into the real impact of antioxidants on cognitive function and disease progression.
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