Though medical researchers are striving to develop new and more effective medication to treat Alzheimer’s disease, millions of Americans have already been diagnosed this degenerative condition, which has been deemed the defining disease of the baby boomer generation. As such, in addition to formulating drugs that may take years to become widely available, a segment of Alzheimer’s researchers are also investigating how dietary choices may impact the progress of this ailment.
In previous posts, we’ve documented studies that have shown how demonstrated brain enhancers such as vitamin D and curcumin supplements may be able to slow or even prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Now, researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) have released a study regarding the potential benefits of a low-protein diet for sustained brain health.
According to a press release from the university, scientists found that restricting the dietary protein consumed by mice in the later, more severe stages of Alzheimer’s disease resulted in notable improvements in memory retention and a decreased build up of tau – a protein linked to the disease – in the brain.
While further research is required to determine if this restriction will produce the same benefits in humans, USC professor Valter Longo expressed the hope that diet-focused research could provide Alzheimer’s patients with immediate options to investigate – with the guidance of their physicians.
“Although only clinical trials can determine whether the protein-restricted diet is effective and safe in humans with cognitive impairment, a doctor could read this study today and, if his or her patient did not have any other viable options, could consider introducing the protein-restriction cycles in the treatment,” Longo said in the release.
Before making any substantial changes to your diet, even if your intent is to provide better nutrition for the brain, it is essential that you consult a licensed nutritionist or medical professional.
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