Stop Alzheimer’s disease with curcumin

(NaturalHealth365) Alzheimer’s disease has reached epidemic levels in the U.S.  More than 5 million Americans over the age of 65 are currently afflicted with Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to rise to 13.8 million by 2050.

Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia in older Americans with the risk doubling every five years past age 65.  Conventionally speaking, they say there’s no cure.  But, a compound within the spice turmeric is showing tremendous promise. (details below)

Curcumin shown to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and ward off cancer

Studies have already shown that curcumin, a nutrient and active component within turmeric, can dramatically reduce the impact of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Now more data is confirming that curcumin is highly effective in supporting brain health and preventing Alzheimer’s disease.

Turmeric has a long, rich history in Indian and Chinese traditions.  In fact, it’s been used in cooking and medicinal practices for centuries.  Now, Western science is proving its efficacy in many areas of health, including protection against diseases and issues associated with aging.

Curcumin seems to work by improving mechanisms related to chemical signaling within cells and genes. It also improves the body’s resistance to inflammation and chemical stresses.  One study of mice showed curcumin triggered the formation of new brain neurons in the areas that govern memory.

How does curcumin help to protect the brain?

Researchers believe curcumin is effective against Alzheimer’s disease by addressing its main causes. Curcumin binds to toxic proteins that can appear in the brain and prevents them from forming dangerous plaques. It also reduces oxidative stress and damage, lowers cholesterol, reduces inflammatory signaling molecules, promotes cleanup and induces protective mechanisms within the brain.

Curcumin helps to protect existing brain cells against the decline associated with premature (unnatural) aging.  It supports brain health while preventing the degradation that can lead to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin also seems to minimize the impact of brain injuries like stroke, chronic toxicity from alcohol, and head traumas.

In short, curcumin has the ability to block the formation of toxic, abnormal proteins and plaques within the brain.  A UCLA/VA study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry confirmed this effect.

Curcumin helps us avoid the negative effects of aging

Curcumin also addresses the root causes of Parkinson’s disease, which affects over one million Americans annually. It helps to prevent the death of dopamine-producing cells and reduces free radicals and inflammation.  Generally speaking, curcumin has an extremely protective effect on the brain.

Neurodegenerative diseases and the impact of the aging process involve abnormal responses in chemical signaling pathways. Over time, normal cell functioning can be lost. However, curcumin is a potent ally against neurodegenerative health issues and the effects of premature aging.

The recommended curcumin dosage is 400 to 600 mg three times a day.  One word of caution: people taking blood thinners or diabetes medications should talk with their doctor before taking curcumin supplements.

References:

http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2016/3/curcumin-aging-brains-and-cancer/page-01

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693758

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18701050

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2781139

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22211691

http://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/UCLA-VA-Study-Finds-Chemical-Found-7366?RelNum=7366

http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/turmeric