There is no proof that supplements can be beneficial or preventive for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, but interest in the relationship between supplements and brain health is high. As baby boomers age, they are increasingly spending money and time experimenting with supplements.
Categories of Supplements
Vitamins are the most well-known supplements, but the following are also common:
- Minerals
- Botanicals or herbs
- Amino acids
- Live microbials (probiotics)
Safety and Regulation
The FDA does not have the authority to approve dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness or to approve their labeling before supplements are sold to the public. No prescription is needed for supplements, as supplements are regulated under the category of foods instead of drugs. Supplement makers cannot explicitly or implicitly claim their supplement will treat, prevent, or cure a specific disease, since adequate testing hasn’t occurred. However, there are guidelines for categories of claims that are acceptable, such as the relationship between iron supplements and their effect on anemia.
Popular Supplements for Brain Health - Omega-3 fatty acids: These are the fatty acids found in fish. They are known for their
anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in the body and brain is the cause of many autoimmune disorders and other illnesses. It’s unknown if this applies to dementia, but decreasing inflammation improves overall health.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is considered an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. Factors including the sun’s rays and pollution can cause cell damage, and antioxidants are thought to help counter that damage. Studies are underway, but doctors warn that vitamin E can act as a blood thinner, so it’s inappropriate for some people.
- Curcumin: Like omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin is thought to be anti-inflammatory. It comes from the turmeric plant, which is used as a seasoning and looks like ginger root. Curcumin has not been studied as much as other supplements, but there has been a recent interest in its potential benefits.
Varying Effects
While supplements cannot claim to cure or aid in Alzheimer’s disease or other illnesses, there is evidence that some supplements help with overall health and well-being. They are easy to buy and relatively inexpensive. Actively choosing supplements can help people feel empowered because they are taking action to support their health.
The opposite can be true, too. Just because you can buy supplements at the grocery store without a prescription doesn’t make them safe. Lithium, for example, was once considered a supplement. Other supplements are powerful enough to be on the Olympic Committee’s list of banned substances. Taking too many supplements might upset your stomach or prevent your body from absorbing a medication.
Consulting with your doctor is the best way to navigate supplements. They can assist with choosing the right supplement and determining if a supplement is having an adverse effect on your health.
Choosing a Brand
Besides talking to a doctor, it’s important to research supplement brands if you’re interested in supplements for yourself or a loved one. The FDA doesn’t approve dietary supplements before they hit the market—it is up to the manufacturer to ensure that their product is safe, and the labeling is accurate. Researching companies with good reputations is very important.
Also, be sure to look at labels to compare supplement dosages and see if there are any other ingredients you want to avoid. The initials
USP or
NSF indicate that the product has been tested by third parties. This doesn’t mean the supplement will be beneficial, but it helps confirm that the ingredients listed are accurate.
