Understanding Alzheimer's Disease

Health & Wellness News

NOVEMBER 2013

This month's newsletter topic is focused on understanding Alzheimer's Disease.  Alzheimer's is a relatively new disease of the mind that has been linked to many current trends in the US.  Two of which are cholesterol lowering medications and low fat diet trends.  Both of which decrease the amount of "good fat" available for your brain.  The brain thrives on Omega 3 fatty acids (those found in grass fed protein sources, fish oil, olive oil, avocado, coconut oil etc).  Without adequate amounts of Omega 3 "good fat", your brain starves and glucose metabolism suffers, which according to recent research, leads to Alzheimer's.  Alzheimer's is also strongly linked with a build up of Aluminum in the system from various sources listed below.  A thorough detox program, like the Three-Step Detox we offer at IMC, is an effective way to address buildup of Aluminum, as well as the many other chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis. Please take the time to read this month's informative edition to help ensure your health and longevity, and be sure to share it with your loved ones too!   Until our next adjustment...    Yours in Health,  Dr. Heidi & the InnerMovement Wellness Team

Coconut Oil: Food For Your Brain

Researchers are actively looking to Coconut Oil and it's positive effects for Alzheimer's patients. The human brain uses glucose for fuel. Most of the time our brains rely on glucose from carbohydrates, but if that isn't available - because we haven't eaten anything for a while or because we're eating almost no carbohydrates - then our brain cells can switch to using the energy from our fat stores. This energy comes in the form of small molecules called ketones.

Through brain scans, Alzheimer's researchers have found that as the disease progresses and gets worse, sections of the brain lose their ability to properly process sugar into energy. When this occurs, the brain begins to use its own cells for energy, causing severe deterioration and dementia.

Coconut oil may help by boosting the brain's energy supply as it is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). When the human body metabolizes MCTs, it creates ketone Beta-hydroxybutyrate. This ketone helps to protect the neurons in the brain and provide energy to cells (much like glucose). The ketones found in coconut oil provide a fuel to the brain that is thought to be very beneficial to those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's.  

  

How to get the benefits of coconut oil into your diet?  

* Take 4 teaspoons per day.

 Where to buy?  Whole Foods, Trader Joes & most health food stores

More information:

How Coconut Oil May Rescue The Brain From Alzheimer's Disease

ABC News

Daily Mail UK

Coconut Oil:  Research on Alzheimer's