Memory problems are scary for everyone involved. Luckily, there’s much that can be done for prevention and in the early stages of disease. Various things can affect memory, including fatigue, stress, blood sugar, not eating enough protein, lack of protein assimilation, and hormonal imbalances. All of which can be treated using prescribed supplements or Chinese herbal formulas. But the most debilitating issues include sugar/alcohol consumption, fat assimilation and Candida.
Scientists are now calling Alzheimers Type 3 Diabetes since there’s a direct correlation between sugar, alcohol and Alzheimers. Sugar, in all its various forms, including the supposedly healthy varieties, causes inflammation in the body. Alcohol is just another form of sugar but more damaging. (Yes, this includes red wine.) Inflammation in the body expands and contracts blood vessels. Regular consumption of sugar and/or alcohol can weaken vessels making them fragile, consequently vulnerable to breaking. So the body puts a bandage on the weakened areas in the form of plaque. Plaque build up in blood vessels in the brain can prevent the flow of blood, causing atrophy of the brain which impairs cognitive function.
Dementia, on the other hand, has to do with fat assimilation. The brain is made of fat. Consuming good fats is essential for optimal brain function. This can include vegetable and organic animal fats. We’ve known for some time that fish oils assist cognitive abilities. Studies show that statin drugs, that flush fat from the body, increase the chances of dementia by 40%. As we age, many of us don’t digest fats efficiently. This has to do with the decline of pancreatic enzymes as well as the function of the liver and gallbladder. The liver creates bile and the gallbladder condenses and stores bile. When we eat fats the bile is released into the small intestines to break down those fats. It also breaks down phlegm in our bodies. So if you have any phlegm issues including post nasal drip, allergies, asthma, blow your nose frequently, have high cholesterol or dry skin, chances are you need some help with fat assimilation.
Candida creates sweet and empty carbohydrate cravings/addictions. Way before Alzheimer’s or dementia sets in, candida can adversely effect short-term memory, even effecting children and teenagers. If someone can’t seem to remember what you told them just 5 minutes before it might not be a lack of attention, but an overgrowth of candida. Of course, long-term addiction to sugar caused by candida can result in Alzheimers. Sugar cravings/addictions can be eradicated with proper treatment.
Except in cases of advanced disease, I often see improvement in patient’s memory problems in as little as a week. Even advanced cases can improve with diet changes and prescribed supplements.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s aren’t just the hand of fate. There’s much you can do to protect your brain.
Health & Happiness,
Nancy Burton, L.Ac. (Licensed Acupuncturist)
534 Washington St. Ashland, OR 97520
For appointment call: 541-646-0134
