Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at Oxford University found that daily supplementation with folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 lowered levels of homocysteine, a known risk factor leading to decline in cognition and memory. This information coupled with findings reported in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research that a disproportionate ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids plays a crucial role in the development of AD in later life tells us we can–through eating a healthy diet–prevent the onset of Alzheimer's Disease.

You see, the typical American diet of fried and processed veggie-less meals includes large quantities of oxidized omega-6 fats and not enough good omega-3 fats. The ideal omega 6 to 3 ratio is 4:1, however the typical ranges in the standard American diet runs anywhere from 20:1 to 50:1. Yikes! This massive imbalance leads to inflammtion in the body and cognitive decline. Add in the fact that most people don't eat enough vegetables (and other foods rich in B vitamins) and we see a rise in inflammatory illnesses such as Alzheimer's.

So, what can we do?

Well, don't eat like the typical American. Instead, eat foods rich in folic acid, B6, B12 and Omega-3 fats. My favorites sources of folic acid and B vitamins are foods (not vitamins!) rich in these substances, such as: green veggies, liver (if you can't stomach the idea of eating liver, you can take freeze dried organic liver pills from Dr. Rons), organic, unsulphured black strap molasses and spirulina. As for omega-3 fats be sure to take cod liver oil daily, eat wild salmon regularly and eat a handful or two of walnuts or almonds each day.

About Aimee Raupp, MS, LAc

Aimee Raupp, MS, LAc, is a renowned women’s health & wellness expert and the best- selling author of the books Chill Out & Get Healthy, Yes, You Can Get Pregnant, and Body Belief. A licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in private practice in New York, she holds a Master of Science degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Rutgers University. Aimee is also the founder of the Aimee Raupp Beauty line of hand-crafted, organic skincare products. This article was reviewed AimeeRaupp.com's editorial team and is in compliance with our editorial policy.

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