Although the jury is still out among doctors and scientists on the
exact causes of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there is little dispute
about the findings in AD research that points toward high levels of
aluminum and other metals in the brain of those with AD. In a
nutshell, those who had AD had higher concentrations of metal in
their post mortem brain tissue. It may not be the true cause, but
healthy brains just don't seem to have it.
As a precaution against an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's
disease you can look for ways to reduce the amount of aluminum and
other metals (specifically mercury) from your diet and keep it from
building up in your brain cells. Here are three simple ways:
1. Look at your cooking style. Get rid of aluminum pots and pans
and reduce the amount you use aluminum foil in cooking. Heating
aluminum allows it to get into foods being prepared with these
types of pans. A good way to cook may be to get your self a good
old-fashioned iron pan. They heat up quickly and maintain uniform
temperature. The only rub-off effect is healthy doses of iron added
to your food.
2. Talk to your dentist. Once a common practice, using metal
fillings adds to the amount absorbed by the body. Amalgam fillings
are a composite type of filling that is much safer, even if it is a
bit more costly. If you are having old filings replaced, be sure
to ask that no metal be used in your mouth.
3. Examine Your Fish Sources. Three to five servings of fish a
week is ideal, but somewhat unrealistic for most American diets.
That can of tuna fish at lunch, may not be the best choice either
if you are counting that as one of your servings. Fish sources can
vary in their nutritional value and especially in the way it is
processed. For example, wild harvested fish (as opposed to those
grown in fish hatcheries) is better because it is less likely to
contain high levels of mercury.
Fish Oil is an excellent alternative to fresh fish for those who
just don't like it or don't get enough. It is great for its
antioxidant properties which attack free radicals. The essential
fatty acids found in fish oil also support brain health. It is,
however, important to look for pure sources of these essential
fatty acids with lower risks for mercury. Much of how good a fish
oil supplement is depends on the way the fish oil is processed. To
get a truly accurate accounting of the manufacturing process you
will need to contact the manufacturer. Not all of the important
details can be found on the label.
Taking steps today to remove unhealthy amounts of metals from your
body will help prevent Alzheimer's disease and increase your
chances of staying mentally sharp well into old age. This is true
even if you have a close relative with the disease. It you do
nothing else to keep your mind and body healthy, make sure you get
plenty of the vital essential fatty acids.
Frank Mangano is an active member of his community who works diligently providing assistance to senior citizens and probing as a health advocate to discover new and innovative ways to promote well being. Find out how you can maintain good mental health at: http://www.alzheimersdefense.com/
