Without our brain, according to most, what good am I? How will I take care of others? How will I take care of myself? After all, many people with dementia live for years in that state with a healthy heart and body. 

So, it makes sense that millions of people who take statin drugs may be at risk for dementia from the drug. In fact, the FDA put a black box warning on statin drugs regarding dementia risk back in 2012. 

How statins can damage your brain

Statins lower cholesterol and your brain is full of cholesterol. In fact, 25% of body cholesterol is located in the brain. 

Cholesterol is an essential component of the membranes that surround all human cells. More than simply holding cells together, these membranes have a crucial role in regulating cell function and allowing chemicals to pass into and out of cells. 

The brain and body make cholesterol for many reasons as it is the building block of steroid hormones, including the stress hormone cortisol and the male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and the estrogens. Cholesterol becomes vitamin D when struck by sunshine. High levels of vitamin D appear to protect against dementia. How can we make vitamin D when cholesterol levels are lowered with drugs? 

A 2018 study found that lipophilic (fat soluble) statins like atorvastatin and simvastatin increased dementia risk by up to 268%. Presumably, these drugs get into the brain more easily compared to other statins. 

But there are some conflicting reports. Some studies have found that statins do not increase dementia risk and others show statins may possibly lower dementia risk. 

Why are you on statins? 

The ultimate purpose of statins is to lower cholesterol and therefore supposedly lower heart attack risk risk. Studies find that statins do both. But several studies in primary prevention have found that while heart attack risk is lowered, overall death rate is not. Click here for AFCAPS and PROSPER trials. 

Could statins increase your risk of dying? In 2017, researchers found an 18% increased risk of death in people older than 65 on statins, and a 34% increased risk of death from statins in those older than 75. This was according to JAMA,  the biggest medical journal in the world.

Other risk factors for dementia

Let’s face it. We are not born to develop dementia. Dementia and memory decline happen for the same reasons as every other health condition from cancer to strokes to heart attacks. 

Poor nutrition, a toxic lifestyle and a toxic environment lead to dementia. Read this blog post for more ways to prevent dementia naturally. 

Scarily, one of the most prescribed drug classes in the world was found to increase dementia risk. Yes, the acid blocking PPI use increases dementia risk by 44%. 

When it comes to your brain, we suggest you get tested. I think several tests can be helpful so check out my cardiovascular test recommendation page but strongly consider intracellular micronutrients and urine assessment for mold mycotoxins. MOLD damages your brain. 

A better cholesterol fix

There are better ways to lower your heart attack risk than statin drugs. I discuss this extensively in my book, The Paleo Cardiologist. Additionally, we suggest you find Your Perfect Cholesterol. Watch my 75 minute webinar by clicking here. 

The 6 plant compounds found in my OptiLipid are perfect for your cholesterol and ALL have research linking to better brain function. 

If you are looking to prevent heart disease and dementia, I suggest you check out my OptiLipid. 

The post Statin Drugs and Memory Loss appeared first on TDW.

Currently, dementia affects 47 million individuals worldwide. Every 65 seconds someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s disease. These statistics are projected to rise with estimations of 106 million individuals diagnosed with AD in 2050.

If you are concerned about your health and well-being, we’ve got you covered! Schedule a FREE call with a Drs. Wolfson health coach and get the guidance you need. Just click HERE and pick your coach. 

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?

Dementia is an umbrella term for all of the symptoms that affect the brain such as memory loss, a decline in activities of daily living, impaired reasoning, personality changes and a loss of communication abilities. Alzheimer’s disease is a specific term for the most common form of dementia. 

Dementia is a syndrome, not a specific disease. A syndrome is a condition with a similar set of symptoms. Dementia is a set of symptoms that affects the brain’s processes and function and leads to cognitive decline.

What are the risk factors for dementia?

A major risk factor for dementia is insulin resistance. In fact, scientists have begun calling dementia “Type 3 Diabetes”. Other risk factors include chronic inflammation, leaky gut syndrome, elevated homocysteine levels, abnormal blood lipids, prescription medications, and excessive alcohol consumption. Rarely (contrary to popular belief) is dementia considered “genetic”.

Dementia shares many of the same risk factors as other chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

While dementia typically affects older individuals (age is a risk factor), it can actually begin at a young age and takes years to develop and worsen.

Symptoms of dementia:

• Forgetfulness
• Confusion
• Misplacing things
• Getting lost easily
• Poor decision making
• Lack of recall memory
• Difficulty solving problems
• Inability to do familiar tasks
• Problems speaking or writing
• Memory loss

What are the top ten ways to naturally prevent dementia:

It is important to address many of the underlying causes of dementia. Dementia is a multifactorial condition.

1. Eat an organic, Paleo diet

   The Paleo diet is rich in essential protein, fats and the right type of carbohydrates (from vegetables and fruits) to support brain health. It is highly anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense. It provides the antioxidants and nutrients needed for optimal neurotransmitter function.

   Research has shown that the currently popular high carbohydrate diet (aka Standard American Diet) is evolutionarily discordant and contributes to Alzheimer’s disease development by altering lipid metabolism and damaging cells (Source).

2. Get in the sunshine daily

   The sun’s UVB rays hit the skin and convert cholesterol in the skin to vitamin D. The sun is your best source of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiencies have been liked to an increased risk of developing dementia (Source).

   Additionally, abnormal cholesterol levels have also been associated with the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (Source). The sun is a powerful tool for keeping brain cells happy and healthy by regulating cholesterol levels and increasing vitamin D concentrations.

3. Practice good oral hygiene and heal leaky gut syndrome

   Often, problems that are seen in the mouth arise from digestive issues. The mouth is known as your oral microbiome and it is linked to your gut microbiome. When you get a leaky gut, it can manifest as systemic inflammation and bacterial dysbiosis, both of which can also be seen in the mouth. The microbiomes of dementia patients have distinct types and levels of bacteria compared to healthy individuals. These bacterial populations could play a role in generating neuroinflammation, a hallmark cause of neurodegeneration.

   Practice good oral hygiene habits to balance microbes and reduce inflammation. Get tested to see if you have leaky gut. If you do, heal it by repopulating with good bacteria and taking the right supplements.

4. Move your body regularly

   Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia. It can also slow brain cell deterioration in individuals who have already developed a cognitive disorder. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity movement each day.

   Regular physical activity stimulates a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that keeps your brain cells flourishing and strong. Physical exercise can stimulate brain cell growth and repair. It is also required for adequate blood flow to the brain.

5. Learn new things

   Cognitive- stimulating activities such as reading a book, learning a new hobby or even doing a puzzle have been shown to prevent dementia.

   Exercising your mind is beneficially similar to exercising your body. It helps to increase the strength and communication between neuron (brain cell) connections.

6. Balance blood sugar

   Insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalances are a major risk factor for dementia. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels damage neurons and inhibits communication between brain cells. We know keeping your blood sugar under control is key to protecting arteries, but it is also essential to keeping your brain healthy. A study showed that even in individuals who didn’t have diabetes, higher than normal blood sugar levels were associated with an increased risk of dementia (Source).

   Over time high blood sugar causes inflammation and loss of insulin sensitivity. Again, some scientists are now calling dementia “Type 3 Diabetes”. Check out the foods and supplements you can utilize to prevent or reverse insulin resistance here.

7. Eliminate toxins out of your diet and lifestyle

   Toxins are some of the most potent environmental triggers of dementia. Pesticides and other chemicals have brain-damaging effects. Typically, the toxic exposure trigger is chronic meaning it has been going on for a long period of time. Toxins can include pesticides, insecticides, chemicals in beauty products or household cleaners, heavy metals, carbon monoxide, and even alcohol in excessive amounts.

   To prevent dementia risk, it is best to completely avoid toxin exposures. See the list of natural products we use every day here.

8. Improve vascular health

   Maintaining or improving vascular health is one way to prevent dementia. There are strong links between dementia and cardiovascular conditions like heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

   Reducing risk factors for cardiovascular conditions will also reduce the risk of dementia. Damaged arteries in the heart can impair blood flow to the brain, which contributes to neurodegeneration and memory loss. Focus on boosting nitric oxide levels to improve blood flow and protecting both the heart and brain.

9. Supplement wisely

   There are several key supplements that can be used to prevent dementia and keep the brain strong. These are three of our top brain-protecting supplements:

   • Fish oil
     • Omega 3 fatty acids are the healthiest fats for your brain. They have been found to prevent dementia by reducing inflammation and beta-amyloid plaque development.
     • Take 1-2 capsules daily with food, or as directed by your doctor.
   • Turmeric
     • Turmeric protects brain cells from inflammation and oxidative stress.
     • Take 1 capsule three times daily, or as directed by your doctor.
   • Daily Defense
     • Daily Defense aids in detoxification, especially of mercury, which is imperative. Watercress and broccoli seed extract along with nutrients like selenium and zinc are key for that. It also contains nutrients to lower inflammation and heal leaky gut.
     • Take 2 scoops daily mixed in water, or as directed by your doctor.
10. Drink good quality water

    The body needs high-quality water every day to function optimally and fend off disease. Regular tap water is filled with toxins (such as fluoride, lead, cyanide, arsenic, aluminum, and the list goes on and on) that damage the brain. The water you drink daily needs to be completely filtered of all contaminants, re-mineralized and re-energized. Check out the water we love here.

Remember, if you have concerns about your health, schedule a FREE call with a Drs. Wolfson health coach and get the guidance you need. Just click HERE and pick your coach. 

The post 10 Ways to Prevent Dementia Naturally appeared first on TDW.

Research shows however that memory loss can begin as early as your 20s, and it can continue as you age. Here’s some good news – there are simple steps you can take to prevent memory loss.

Step # 1 – BE ACTIVE

The National Academy of Sciences in a 2017 report says fitness may be your best defense against cognitive decline and dementia. A University of British Columbia study, reported by Harvard Medical School, found that regular exercise changes the brain to improve thinking skills and memory.

Strive to be active in all aspects of your daily life. Stand instead of sit. Take the stairs instead of the escalator. Get 30 minutes of brisk physical activity each day – walk, hike, run, swim, yoga, do body weight exercises and build muscle. Exercise increases the blood flow to your brain.

Step # 2 – EAT ORGANIC PALEO FOODS

A small study done by UCLA, and reported by Science Daily, shows potential lifestyle changes that may prevent or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. The study is anecdotal, and one shouldn’t draw definitive conclusions from it. However, the study shows promise relating to memory loss, especially as it relates to Paleo foods. It shows that elimination of simple carbohydrates and gluten, along with eating increased amounts of vegetables, fruits and non-farmed fish, had profound impacts in reversing Alzheimer’s disease as part of a systems treatment approach. The study also found that adequate sleep, intermittent fasting, nutritional supplements, yoga and meditation to positively impact memory loss as part of a systems treatment approach.

A Journal of the American Geriatrics Society published study shows a Paleo eating plan of vegetables, fish, nuts, olives, avocado and coconut can significantly lower your risk of cognitive impairment.

Eat only organic foods. Non-organic foods are covered in pesticides that destroy your body. Conventional food is subject to genetic modification.  Non-organic meats contain antibiotics and growth hormones. Stick to organic foods, and grass- fed, free range meats and wild seafood. Omega -3 from seafood is pure brain fuel.

Step # 3 – DITCH TOXIC PERSONAL CARE ITEMS

The Atlantic published an interesting article about the chemical dangers in our daily lives that threaten our brains and contribute to memory loss. Leading scientists shared the health and economic impacts of toxic exposure to chemicals in our clothing, food, personal care products like deodorants, and even our furniture.

The Drs. Wolfson for quite some time have warned of the health dangers of toxic chemical exposures in our daily lives. Sleep on an organic mattress. Buy organic furniture. Use organic, natural personal care products. Here’s a list of natural personal care products we use in our home.

Step # 4 – CONTROL YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood vessels in your brain are damaged by high blood pressure. Even the Mayo Clinic recognizes the negative impacts of high blood pressure on brain function. Neurology published a study, cited by the US National Library of Medicine’s PubMed Journals, that showed women in their 40s with high blood pressure had a 73% increased risk of dementia when compared to those with normal blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a serious condition, and can lead to numerous medical complications. See your holistic physician for natural treatment options. See a Doctor of Chiropractic. The chiropractor is uniquely qualified to help lower blood pressure. Web MD cites a University of Chicago study that shows a specific chiropractic adjustment can significantly lower high blood pressure.

Finally, practice yoga and meditation. They were cited in a study mentioned earlier in this article as factors that can improve memory function. A big reason why is they both help alleviate stress, which is a prime cause of high blood pressure.

Step # 5 – TAKE VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS

We’ve seen the benefits of vitamins and supplements in our patients for years.

With environmental toxins and soil depletion, it’s nearly impossible to get all the proper nutrients your body needs for good brain health from food alone.

That’s why it’s important you see your holistic physician for comprehensive blood testing. They’ll analyze the results and recommend quality nutritional supplements to support good memory and overall health.

Healthline does a pretty good job explaining the vitamin supplements that help boost memory and curb Alzheimer’s disease risk.

Most of these supplements are available in our online store.

The Foundation 5 is critical to brain health.

Check out our Brain Sustain and our NeuroActives.

Step # 6 – INTERACT WITH OTHERS

Doing things in groups seems to help fight dementia and improve cognitive function.

In a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, researchers found that women who were involved with large social networks slashed their risks of dementia and prevented or delayed cognitive impairment.

Our ancestors have known this for some time. Social interactions keep our brains active and healthy.

For more information on this subject, see our natural treatment remedies for memory loss.

The post How to Protect Against Memory Loss appeared first on TDW.

Memory loss affects millions of people. Whether it is you or a loved one, the emotional and physical impact of memory loss, often called dementia, is tremendous.

It might be occasional forgetfulness or loss of short-term memory but if it interferes with daily life, it can be quite frustrating. The good news is, you can do something about it now!

What Causes Memory Loss

Some of the more common reasons for memory loss include:

• Nutritional deficiencies – lack of proper vitamins and minerals can impact the brain and create memory loss. B vitamin deficiencies are especially worrisome. Sugar, processed foods and non-organic foods cause memory loss. Lack of seafood is a major cause of memory loss.
• Medications – antihistamines, antidepressants, pain medications, sleeping pills, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants and others negatively impact memory. Statin drugs are the “poster child” for pharmaceuticals that can cause memory loss. Chemotherapy is another common cause. Again, any drug can affect your brain.
• Alcohol, drug or tobacco use – smoking robs the brain of oxygen, drugs change the chemicals in your brain and science has known for years (as have many a drunk person) that alcohol impacts memory.
• Stress or depression – both conditions make it tough to concentrate, focus and pay attention.
• Sleep deprivation – your quality and quantity of sleep impact your memory. Too little sleep or poor sleep interferes with your ability to receive and consolidate information.
• Head injuries – severe trauma to the head, most likely resulting in a concussion, injures the brain and results in memory loss. See your chiropractor regularly, but especially after head trauma.
• Stroke – strokes are noted for causing short term memory loss.

To properly evaluate and treat memory loss, we recommend comprehensive blood testing. Make sure you are tested for heavy metals and mercury amalgams. This will allow your holistic physician the chance to understand what’s happening inside your body, while providing a blueprint for treatment options.

Natural Remedies for Memory Loss

In most cases, memory loss can be reversed with the proper actions. Here’s what to do:

• Avoid prescription medications. Most do more harm than good. Just read the package insert and the warnings. Memory loss is a possible side effect of so many, especially statin drugs. Look for natural supplements, nutrition and good lifestyle choices as alternatives.
• Eat only organic, Paleo foods. Pesticides and other toxins used in non-organic food production will cause memory loss, in addition to destroying most other aspects of your health. Paleo foods are non-processed, GMO-free, gluten-free foods ate by our ancestors.
• Eat fish. The omega-3 from the sea will crank up your brain. You cannot get the omega-3 as DHA from eating plants. You must eat wild salmon, sardines, and anchovy. Shellfish too.
• Eat fat. Your brain is made of fat. Support it with good fat choices like coconut and avocado.
• Use spices on your food. The nutrients from spices, herbs and other veggies are pure brain food. No recipe needed. Just sprinkle the ORGANIC spices on your meal.
• Avoid grains. If you are eating Paleo, you won’t be having grains. Let us reiterate one more time that grains damage your brain. A great read on the topic can be found in the book, Grain Brain.
• Get adequate amounts of quality sleep every night. Sleep rejuvenates and heals your body and is vital for good memory support. In fact, most memories are converted from short-term to long-term while we sleep. Sleep with the sundown and awake with the sunrise.
• Clean out the poisons in your house. Stop using toxic laundry and cleaning products, toxic personal care products, scented candles and air scents. Here’s a list of things we use in our home.
• Limit EMF exposure from your smart phone, WiFi, lights, etc. Turn off the WiFi at bedtime. Keep your phone as far away from you as possible.
• Limit blue light exposure from indoor lighting, mobile devices, computer and TV. Buy a pair of blue blocking glasses to protect your health.

Nutritional supplements can help support your memory. Our Foundation 5 contains the multivitamin you need, the Omega DHA in the best formulation available, and probiotics to heal your gut and heal your brain. In addition to our Foundation 5, try the following:

• Glutathione Boost – Crank up the body’s detox system with an amino acid to boost glutathione.
• Paleo Cleanse – A protein powder to support healthy detox of your brain and your whole body.
• Super B – B vitamins are essential for brain health. Load up today.
• Superfood – Organic chlorella and spirulina provide massive amounts of nutrients while detoxifying the body. Combines perfectly with our Heart Beet and Daily Greens.

See Our Collection of Premium Supplements Effective Against Memory Loss ►

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