Q: I recently caught the tail end of a television commentary that indicated there is new research out regarding Alzheimer’s. I was sorry I didn’t hear it from the beginning and am hoping you can fill in what is going on. I’m very interested because my grandmother has Alzheimer’s and the family would like to do whatever we can to help her in the years to come.
A: It is estimated that approximately 5 million individuals in the United States and 35 million worldwide suffer from some form of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s is the most common type.
Very recently the Journal of the American Medical Association published a study conducted by the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs that involved 613 veterans, almost all of whom were males. The average age of those in the study was 79 and each individual had a diagnosis of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. All the participants in the study group were on Exelon, Aricept or Razadyne, medications prescribed to treat the disorder. The 613 participants were divided into four groups, some of which were given vitamin E, while others were given a dummy pill or Namenda, yet another medication for Alzheimer’s.
After two years, those on high doses of vitamin E alone had a 19% lower annual rate of decline in skills that included dressing, bathing, preparing meals and holding a conversation with others, as compared with those in the placebo group. Some help may still have been necessary from caregivers but it was estimated to be about two hours less each day! Vitamin E did not preserve thinking abilities, nor did it help those that took it along with an Alzheimer’s medication, but this exciting revelation could mean independence for a longer period of time and a delay in possible nursing home placement and home care.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant found in leafy green vegetables, grapes, some teas, nuts, seeds, red wine, and in other products. According to the federal Office on Dietary Supplements, antioxidants are believed to help protect the cells of the body from damage that can contribute to other diseases.
Researchers stress that this is no miracle or cure for Alzheimer’s; however E might slow the progression of mild to moderate forms of the disease. Two Harvard neurologists have indicated there is limited evidence regarding a possible benefit from E supplementation in patients with dementia, and stress concern regarding risks associated with high dose E. No one should take the vitamin for this disorder or for other memory issues, except under the strict supervision of a physician because it can interfere with cholesterol medications, anticoagulants and other medications. Still, this is breakthrough information that has followed almost three decades of research. And, as General Electric stated many years ago in their advertising, “progress is our most important product”.
Readers who would like related information can order Dr. Gott’s Health Report “Alzheimer’s Disease” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Peter H. Gott, MD Health Report, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from www.AskDrGottMD.com.
