In this article, you will learn how orthomolecular micronutrients can help prevent dementia in a way that is understandable to laypeople and scientifically sound – from vitamin D and B vitamins to omega-3 fatty acids.<\/p>\n
Orthomolecular medicine was coined in the 1960s by two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling. The term literally means “the right molecules” – it refers to supplying the body with optimal concentrations of natural micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, etc.) in order to maintain health and prevent disease. <\/span><\/p>\n Pauling and colleagues such as the psychiatrist Abram Hoffer discovered early on that biochemical imbalances and nutrient deficiencies contribute to the development of many diseases. The aim of orthomolecular medicine is to correct these imbalances through targeted nutritional supplements and thus create an optimal physiological environment in the body. <\/span><\/p>\n Especially in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases – including neurodegenerative diseases – orthomolecular medicine relies on high-quality vital substances in sometimes high dosages, always individually adapted to the patient’s needs.<\/span><\/p>\n Orthomolecular psychiatry deals specifically with the role of nutrients for mental health and brain function. It recognizes that each person has a unique genetic makeup and biochemistry that influences individual nutrient requirements. <\/span><\/p>\n For example, a congenital B-vitamin metabolism defect may require a higher intake of certain vitamins. Orthomolecular therapists (often doctors or alternative practitioners with additional knowledge) therefore create personalized nutrient plans based on laboratory values and medical history to compensate for deficiencies and optimize protective factors. <\/span><\/p>\n Is orthomolecular medicine scientifically sound? Initially it was ridiculed as an “alternative” method, but numerous studies now support the importance of micronutrients in prevention and therapy. <\/span><\/p>\n Particularly in complex diseases such as Alzheimer’s, there is a growing realization that multi-component approaches could be more successful than monotherapies. After previous drugs against Alzheimer’s have been largely disappointing, experts are calling for a holistic approach that positively influences several mechanisms simultaneously. <\/span><\/p>\n This is where orthomolecular medicine comes in: It combines scientific evidence with a holistic understanding of therapy to achieve the best possible brain health through nutrition, supplements and lifestyle changes.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Alzheimer’s dementia is a complex neurodegenerative disease in which brain cells (neurons) gradually die over decades and mental abilities are lost. Protein deposits in the brain – beta-amyloid plaques outside the cells and tau fibrils inside the neurons – are typical. <\/span><\/p>\n These changes are associated with chronic inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, disturbances in energy metabolism and loss of synapses. Many factors contribute to the development of this pathology: genetic predisposition (e.g. APOE4 gene), advanced age, but also lifestyle and environmental factors. The latter are also starting points for prevention: by exerting a positive influence on diet, exercise, sleep, stress and nutrient supply, the harmful processes in the brain can be mitigated. <\/span><\/p>\n Scientists have discovered that pathological changes in Alzheimer’s begin decades before the first symptoms appear. This long silent phase opens up a crucial window of opportunity for preventive measures. Micronutrients can be used at various points in the development of the disease: <\/span><\/p>\n The brain consumes a lot of oxygen and energy, which produces many free radicals. Oxidative stress damages nerve cells and promotes plaque formation. <\/span> <\/p>\n Chronic neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain) contributes significantly to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Some nutrients have an inflammation-modulating effect – e.g. omega-3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA) from fish oil, which serve as a precursor of inflammation-dissolving messenger substances. <\/span> <\/p>\n An often overlooked risk factor is amino acid metabolism. High homocysteine levels in the blood correlate with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and increased brain degeneration. <\/span><\/p>\n Homocysteine damages blood vessels and promotes neurodegeneration, even inhibiting the formation of new nerve cells (neurogenesis) in the hippocampus. Elevated homocysteine levels are usually caused by a lack of B vitamins (B\u2086, B\u2081\u2082 and folic acid), which break down homocysteine. <\/span><\/p>\n If these vitamins are missing, homocysteine can accumulate. B vitamins are therefore an important point of attack: studies show that lowering homocysteine levels with vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid can slow down brain degeneration in people at risk. Note: A high homocysteine level is a warning signal and should be normalized with appropriate vitamin supplements. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The brains of Alzheimer’s patients show signs of insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction – in some cases Alzheimer’s is even referred to as “type 3 diabetes”. <\/span><\/p>\n The neurons are less able to utilize glucose and “starve”, so to speak, in the midst of excess. Ketogenic approaches could help here (see below), but also micronutrients: B vitamins, coenzyme Q10, magnesium and L-carnitine support the energy metabolism of the cells. A meta-analysis of 21 studies found that acetyl-L-carnitine (a nutrient for mitochondrial support), for example, led to a slight improvement in cognition, mood and brain energy in patients with mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease. <\/span><\/p>\n NADH (a coenzyme) also showed in initial clinical tests that it can stabilize the course of the disease and slightly improve mental performance. These results indicate that improving brain energy supply through orthomolecular nutrients is a promising path. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Certain vitamins and amino acids are building blocks for neurotransmitters (messenger substances in the brain). For example, the formation of acetylcholine (important for memory) requires sufficient choline and vitamin B5. <\/span><\/p>\n Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is essential for glucose utilization in the brain; thiamine deficiency (Wernicke-Korsakow syndrome) leads to severe memory impairment. In small Alzheimer’s studies, cognitive functions improved when high doses of thiamine were administered. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n One aim is also to promote the disposal of amyloid proteins. The immune system in the brain (microglia) and specific enzymes are involved in this process. <\/span><\/p>\n Vitamin D has proven to be important here: It modulates the immune defense and, in laboratory tests, promotes the uptake and degradation of amyloid-\u03b2 by immune cells . A good vitamin D status could therefore help to prevent or reduce amyloid deposits. <\/span><\/p>\n It is also being discussed that curcumin (turmeric) can bind to amyloid and inhibit its clumping (at least in animal experiments). Plant polyphenols in general support cellular cleansing and repair processes. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n To summarize: <\/b>Alzheimer’s is caused by a complex interplay of harmful processes, many of which can be positively influenced by nutrients. <\/span> <\/p>\n Orthomolecular means taking all the pieces of the puzzle into account: Reduce oxidative stress, dampen inflammation, strengthen mitochondria, optimize vascular health and homocysteine, support neurotransmitters and break down harmful proteins. <\/span><\/p>\n No single vitamin will prevent Alzheimer’s – but the orchestrated interaction of many micronutrients plus a healthy lifestyle can create a robust safety net that delays the onset of dementia or, ideally, prevents it altogether.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In this chapter, we present the most important vitamins, minerals and nutrients that research shows play a role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s dementia. We look at their function in the brain, signs of deficiency and current study results on Alzheimer’s prevention. <\/span><\/p>\n Infobox: Key nutrients for brain health<\/b><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n What do B vitamins do? Vitamins B\u2086 (pyridoxine), B\u2089 (folate), and B\u2081\u2082 (cobalamin) are key substances for the nervous system. They are needed for myelination (protective sheath of nerve fibers), DNA repair, and neurotransmitter formation. <\/span><\/p>\n Their role in homocysteine metabolism is particularly well known: together they convert the cell toxin homocysteine into methionine or cysteine.<\/span><\/p>\n Why is this important? Excess homocysteine has a vascular damaging effect (arteriosclerosis) and is neurotoxic – it promotes apoptosis (cell death) and disrupts the development of new brain cells. <\/span><\/p>\n Elevated homocysteine levels are found more frequently than average in Alzheimer’s patients. In the renowned Framingham study, people with high homocysteine levels had twice the risk of developing dementia. <\/span><\/p>\n Study situation: The VITACOG study in Oxford was a breakthrough: older people with mild memory problems were given high doses of B\u2086, B\u2081\u2082 and folic acid or placebo. Result: In the B-vitamin group, the brain (hippocampus region) shrank 30% slower than in the placebo group – in patients with elevated homocysteine . <\/span><\/p>\n Cognitive abilities remained more stable. This suggests that B vitamins are particularly effective when there is actually a deficiency or elevated homocysteine level. <\/span><\/p>\n A further analysis also showed that the effect of the B vitamins was greatest when sufficient omega-3 fatty acids were present in the blood at the same time. Apparently, B vitamins and omega-3 complement each other in their neuroprotective effect (omega-3 stabilizes cell membranes, B vitamins lower homocysteine and provide methyl groups for repair processes). <\/span><\/p>\n Practice: As part of dementia prevention, it is recommended that adults (especially those aged 50+) have their blood homocysteine levels determined. If this is elevated (>10-12 \u00b5mol\/L), B-vitamin supplementation should be taken after consultation with the doctor, typically Folic acid 400-800 \u00b5g, B\u2086 approx. 20 mg, B\u2081\u2082 approx. 500-1000 \u00b5g daily. <\/span><\/p>\n Combination supplements are often used. Even without an increase in homocysteine, moderate supplementation can be useful if, for example, you have a low-normal B\u2081\u2082 level (<300 pg\/ml) or a diet that is low in B vitamins (typically with a vegetarian\/vegan diet, pay particular attention to B\u2081\u2082 here!). <\/span><\/p>\n As B vitamins are water-soluble, excess amounts are excreted; however, a high-dose intake should be agreed with the therapist.<\/span><\/p>\n Important:<\/b> Vitamin B\u2081\u2082 should be checked regularly in old age – an estimated 10-30% of seniors have a deficiency, which can lead to irreversible nerve damage. An untreated B\u2081\u2082 deficiency can cause dementia-like symptoms. <\/span><\/p>\n Targeted high-dose therapy (orally or by injection) may help here. Orthomolecular medicine therefore always includes laboratory diagnostics (see Diagnostics) in order to detect such deficiencies and take timely countermeasures. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are omega-3s? Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are mainly found in fatty cold-water fish (salmon, herring, mackerel). DHA is a main component of the membranes of brain cells – about 30% of the fatty acids in the brain are DHA! EPA acts primarily as a building block for anti-inflammatory signaling substances. <\/span><\/p>\n Why is it important? Omega-3s promote the fluidity and function of synapses, support the formation of new connections (neuroplasticity) and have anti-inflammatory effects. A lack of DHA can lead to learning and memory disorders (known from animal studies and some observations in humans). In addition, people with low omega-3 levels are more likely to have organic brain changes. <\/span><\/p>\n Study situation: Numerous observational studies have shown that people who regularly eat fish or have higher omega-3 blood levels are less likely to develop dementia . A meta-analysis suggested that a diet rich in fish could reduce the risk of cognitive impairment by ~20%. <\/span><\/p>\n However, clinical trials with omega-3 capsules have produced mixed results. Some small studies in patients with mild memory impairment found a slowing of deterioration with omega-3 administration – especially in those who did not yet have advanced dementia. <\/span><\/p>\n However, larger studies (e.g. on patients with existing Alzheimer’s) showed little effect, especially when severe symptoms were already present. More recent data suggest that omega-3 is more effective in prevention than in the treatment of later stages. <\/span><\/p>\n A recent large observational study from 2022 (UK Biobank with over 200,000 older participants) investigated the long-term use of fish oil capsules: Interestingly, the incidence of dementia was about 9% lower overall in the group of regular fish oil users compared to non-users (hazard ratio ~0.91) . <\/span><\/p>\n There was no significant difference for Alzheimer’s alone, but there was for vascular dementia (HR ~0.83). This means that omega-3s could be particularly protective against vascular dementia – which is logical, as they have an anti-inflammatory effect on blood vessels and prevent thrombosis. <\/span><\/p>\n The results of a study that combined omega-3 with exercise are spectacular: High doses (800 mg DHA + 225 mg EPA daily) plus moderate endurance training (5\u00d730 min\/week) were able to delay the progression of the disease by around 3.5 years in people with mild Alzheimer’s symptoms! <\/span><\/p>\n Without accompanying exercise, the effect was only half as great (approx. 1.5 years delay). This impressively underlines how synergies exist between nutrients and lifestyle factors – and how important it is to use all prevention levers together. <\/span><\/p>\n Practice: For brain health, it is recommended to eat sea fish once or twice a week or alternatively to take a high-quality omega-3 supplement. A common dosage range for prevention is around 500-1000 mg DHA + EPA per day. <\/span><\/p>\n Higher dosages (e.g. 2000 mg total omega-3) are often used in the case of existing mild cognitive impairment or inflammatory diseases – but please consult your doctor. An omega-3 index test (blood test) can provide information on whether you are sufficiently supplied: an omega-3 index of >8% is considered optimal for the heart and brain, <5% is considered low. <\/span><\/p>\n Omega-3 fatty acids are generally well tolerated. If taken in very high doses, they can have a slight effect on blood clotting (be careful with blood thinners, consult your doctor here). <\/span><\/p>\n For vegetarians\/vegans, algae oil capsules are available as a source of DHA\/EPA. Conclusion: Omega-3s are a central component of “natural Alzheimer’s therapy”, as they provide structural building blocks for the brain and slow down inflammatory and vascular-damaging processes. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What is vitamin D? Vitamin D\u2083 (cholecalciferol) is formed in the skin by sunlight and converted to the active hormone calcitriol in the liver\/kidneys. Its role in bones and the immune system is well known. However, vitamin D receptors are found throughout the brain and the vitamin controls a variety of neuronal functions – from growth factors to the regulation of neurotransmitters. <\/span><\/p>\n Why is it important?<\/b> Vitamin D has a neuroprotective effect: it promotes the production of nerve growth factors, supports detoxification (e.g. formation of glutathione) and modulates inflammatory reactions of the microglia. <\/span><\/p>\n Interestingly, vitamin D also helps brain cells to remove the harmful amyloid protein. It also influences the gene expression of hundreds of genes, including those that are relevant to ageing processes. <\/span><\/p>\n Study situation: <\/b>In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of dementia. A frequently cited study in Neurology (2014) showed that people with severe vitamin D deficiency had more than twice the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias compared to people with good vitamin D levels. Numerous observational studies confirm this correlation . It is important to remember that older people in particular often have low vitamin D levels (less sun exposure, lower synthesis capacity of the skin). <\/span><\/p>\n The crucial point:<\/b> Does vitamin D administration actually help prevent dementia? A large study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia in 2023 brings encouraging news: Over 12,000 seniors (average age 71) were observed for 10 years \u2013 those who took vitamin D supplements developed dementia approximately 40% less often than non-supplementers. This correlation remained even after adjusting for influencing factors. <\/span><\/p>\n Of course, this is “only” an association; a randomized study would be definitive proof. But as early as 2018, a meta-analysis of randomized trials showed that vitamin D can slightly improve cognitive function in older adults compared to placebo. A review (2020) concluded: Vitamin D supplementation could delay the onset of dementia, especially in people with deficiency. <\/span><\/p>\n Practice: Orthomolecular medicine recommends having the vitamin D level (25-OH-D) in the blood checked. Values in the range of 30-50 ng\/ml (75-125 nmol\/l) are considered optimal for a variety of health effects. <\/span><\/p>\n If there is a deficiency (<20 ng\/ml), high doses of vitamin D are substituted in order to quickly reach the normal range (monitored by a doctor). For maintenance dosing, an average of approx. 1000-2000 I.U. daily is sufficient, for many even more in winter (3000-4000 I.U.), depending on the initial value and body weight. Important: If possible, vitamin D should be taken together with vitamin K\u2082 and magnesium, as it influences calcium metabolism. K\u2082 ensures that calcium is stored in the bones and does not calcify in blood vessels. <\/span><\/p>\n As vitamin D is stored by the body, overdoses should be avoided (over 100 ng\/ml in the long term is not advisable). In prevention, however, safe doses are usually used. <\/span><\/p>\n Tip:<\/b> Regular moderate exposure to sunlight (~15-30 minutes daily for face and arms, depending on skin type) can already help to maintain the level – useful in summer, but in winter the sun in Germany is usually not enough.<\/span><\/p>\n In summary, vitamin D is a simple but powerful lever to support brain health. It is effectively a preventative measure against dementia, which also strengthens the bones and regulates the immune system. Orthomolecular physicians will always ensure that their patients have a good vitamin D status. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are antioxidants? These are substances that neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. Particularly relevant in the brain: Vitamin C (water-soluble, highly concentrated in cerebrospinal fluid), vitamin E (fat-soluble, protects cell membranes) and beta-carotene or other carotenoids (antioxidant plant pigments), as well as selenium (component of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase). <\/span><\/p>\n Why is it important? <\/b>The brain, although only ~2% of the body weight, consumes ~20% of the total oxygen – reactive oxygen species are constantly produced as a by-product. This production increases with stress, environmental toxins or inflammation. <\/span><\/p>\n If not enough antioxidants are present, oxidative stress occurs, which damages neurons and promotes deposits (plaques, tangles). Oxidative stress is considered to be one of the earliest processes in the Alzheimer’s process. Consequently, Alzheimer’s patients were often found to have lower levels of vitamin C, E and selenium compared to healthy people. <\/span><\/p>\n Study situation:<\/b> Epidemiological studies have shown that people with a high intake of antioxidant-rich foods (fruit, vegetables, nuts) are less likely to suffer from cognitive impairment. For example, a high intake of vitamin E from food correlated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s in some cohorts. <\/span><\/p>\n However, studies with pure antioxidant supplements in the past have sometimes been disappointing. Large vitamin E intervention studies in patients with manifest Alzheimer’s disease showed only mild benefits: In one study, high-dose vitamin E (2000 I.U. daily) delayed functional decline somewhat in Alzheimer’s patients, but with no effect on cognitive performance. Vitamin C alone has been studied less, but does not appear to be very effective in low doses alone. <\/span><\/p>\n Why this discrepancy?<\/b> Experts believe that antioxidants need to be used in a more targeted way: They presumably have an optimal preventive effect before major damage has occurred, and especially in those people who actually have a deficiency or increased oxidative stress. <\/span><\/p>\n In addition, the combination of several antioxidants could be more useful than a single substance (synergy effects). For example, vitamin C protects vitamin E in the membranes from oxidation; selenium requires sufficient vitamin E to be optimally effective. <\/span><\/p>\n Practice: A colorful, plant-rich diet is the best basis for supplying antioxidants: Berries, citrus fruits, green vegetables (vitamin C), nuts and seeds (vitamin E), carrots, pumpkin, leafy vegetables (beta-carotene) – all these foods provide a whole network of protective substances. <\/span><\/p>\n In addition, orthomolecular medicine allows for high-dose vitamin C to be taken during periods of increased stress (e.g., 500 mg to 1 g\/day, possibly up to 2 g divided \u2013 higher amounts may have a laxative effect). Vitamin E should ideally be supplemented as mixed tocopherols\/tocotrienols (natural vitamin E consists of 8 forms); a dose of 100\u2013400 IU per day is considered safe. If you have an existing cardiovascular disease or are taking blood thinners, be careful with high doses of vitamin E (>400 IU), as it can affect coagulation. <\/span><\/p>\n Selenium: <\/b>In Europe, selenium deficiency is not uncommon, as soils are low in selenium. Selenium is linked to cognitive performance: a very low selenium status could increase the risk of dementia. Brazil nuts are extremely rich in selenium (just 2 nuts cover the daily requirement). <\/span><\/p>\n Alternatively, sodium selenite can be supplemented in small doses (50\u2013100 \u00b5g\/day). Important: Selenium has a narrow therapeutic range \u2013 do not take more than 300 \u00b5g\/day to avoid overdose. <\/span><\/p>\n All in all, it can be said that<\/b> Antioxidants are like \u201crust inhibitors\u201d for our brain. They alone will not prevent Alzheimer’s, but they are an essential part of the overall preventive strategy \u2013 especially if they are supplied early enough and in sufficient variety. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In addition to the prominent vitamins and omega-3s, we must not forget the classic minerals and trace elements. A holistic orthomolecular approach considers all micronutrients as a team: if one link in the chain is missing, the whole system cannot function optimally (keyword: Law of the Minimum according to Justus von Liebig). <\/span><\/p>\n An article by Alzheimer’s researcher Dr. Michael Nehls sums it up succinctly: “All vitamins, trace elements and countless other micronutrients are crucial for adult hippocampal neurogenesis and should therefore play an important role in the holistic prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.” <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Here are some important players:<\/b><\/p>\n Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy production (ATP) and the stabilization of electrical membrane potentials of nerve cells. A magnesium deficiency can lead to irritability, poor concentration, and sleep disorders \u2013 all risk factors for cognitive decline. Experimental studies suggest that magnesium promotes synapse growth and can improve memory performance. In practice, magnesium (e.g., as citrate or bisglycinate, 200\u2013400 mg in the evening) is often part of an orthomolecular nutrient plan, as it also improves sleep quality and muscle function. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n An essential cofactor of over 100 enzymes, important for cell division and immune function. The brain contains high zinc concentrations, especially in the hippocampus (memory center). Zinc deficiency in old age is common and has been linked to depression and cognitive deficits. Animal studies show that zinc deficiency inhibits neurogenesis. Orthomolecular medicine focuses on ensuring adequate zinc intake (about 10\u201315 mg\/day, e.g., through meat, nuts, or as zinc orotate\/zinc citrate). Caution: Zinc and copper are in balance \u2013 if you take high doses of zinc for a long time (>40 mg\/day), you should supplement with copper, otherwise there is a risk of copper deficiency. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n As mentioned above, a trace element with antioxidant effects. In addition to oxidative protection, selenium contributes to thyroid function \u2013 indirectly relevant because thyroid hormones affect the brain (an underactive thyroid can mimic dementia symptoms). In Brazil, selenium in combination with vitamin E has been successfully tested to slightly slow down cognitive decline. Ideal selenium status: ~120 \u00b5g\/l in whole blood. In this country, many do not reach the 70 \u00b5g selenium\/day recommended by the WHO from food, which is why a moderate supplement (e.g., 50 \u00b5g daily) is often useful. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Iron deficiency is particularly common in women and leads to anemia \u2013 the brain is then less well supplied with oxygen, which leads to fatigue and reduced cognitive performance. However, there is also evidence that too much free iron in the brain promotes oxidative stress (iron deposits are found in Alzheimer’s plaques). Balance is important here: iron should only be supplemented if a deficiency has been diagnosed, otherwise not. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n A double-edged sword \u2013 necessary for many enzymes, but pro-oxidative in excess. Some research suggests that a high copper level with simultaneously low antioxidant protection could be unfavorable for the brain (keyword: copper\/zinc imbalance). In food, copper is found in offal, nuts, and cocoa, for example. Supplementation only in case of proven deficiency. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Lithium is primarily known as a psychotropic drug (in high doses) for bipolar disorders. However, in microdoses (under 5 mg\/day), lithium appears to have neuroprotective properties \u2013 it promotes the growth of nerve cells, stabilizes moods, and reduces the phosphorylation of tau proteins (which clump together in Alzheimer’s). Studies from regions with different lithium content in drinking water show that populations with more lithium in the water have fewer cases of dementia. Even in small clinical trials, a minimally dosed lithium preparation was able to slow the progression of mild cognitive impairment. Orthomolecular medicine sometimes uses lithium as a dietary supplement (e.g., lithium orotate 5 mg) \u2013 but this is always accompanied by a doctor, as lithium can affect the thyroid and kidneys. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Recently, vitamin K (especially K\u2082) has also come into focus in brain research. This vitamin, known for blood clotting and bones, is also present in the brain. A deficiency of vitamin K\u2082 has been linked to increased brain aging, likely due to its influence on calcium deposits in blood vessels and inflammation regulation. <\/span><\/p>\n More research is being done on this; until then, you can aim for a good supply through green vegetables (K\u2081) and fermented foods such as matured cheese or natto (K\u2082).<\/span><\/p>\n As can be seen, there is no single “miracle nutrient,” but rather a range of micronutrients, all of which make small contributions. Orthomolecular medicine therefore often relies on broad-based nutrient combinations \u2013 for example, in the form of a high-quality multivitamin preparation as basic protection, plus targeted additional doses depending on individual needs (e.g., extra vitamin D, omega-3, B vitamins, etc.). Indeed, a recent study from the USA showed that daily multivitamin intake in seniors could improve cognitive performance and delay cognitive decline by an average of about 2 years. <\/span><\/p>\n This caused a stir because earlier studies sometimes found no benefit from supplements. The difference may lie in the fact that new studies often specifically address deficiencies and use combined nutrients. Apparently, older people do benefit from supplementary vital nutrient provision, especially if their normal diet is not optimal. <\/span><\/p>\nUnderstanding Alzheimer’s: Pathophysiology and targets for micronutrients<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Antioxidant protection<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n<\/span>Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and selenium neutralize free radicals and protect the cells. In Alzheimer’s studies, low levels of these antioxidants were often found in patients. A sufficient supply of these could make brain cells more resistant and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. <\/span><\/p>\n\n
Inflammation inhibition<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n<\/span>Vitamin D and certain plant substances (e.g. curcumin from turmeric or resveratrol from grapes) have also shown anti-inflammatory effects in the nervous system.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
Homocysteine and vascular health<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Energy balance and insulin signaling pathways<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Neurotransmitters and synapses<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n<\/span>Orthomolecular therapy therefore ensures an optimal supply of all neural building blocks in order to support neurotransmitter balance and synapse function.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
Amyloid clearance<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Most important micronutrients for dementia prevention (with studies)<\/b><\/h2>\n
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B vitamins (B\u2086, B\u2089, B\u2081\u2082): Lower homocysteine, protect the brain<\/b><\/h2>\n
Omega-3 fatty acids: food for the brain<\/b><\/h2>\n
Vitamin D: the sunshine vitamin for the mind<\/b><\/h2>\n
Antioxidant vitamins (C, E, beta-carotene) and selenium<\/b><\/h2>\n
Other essential nutrients: magnesium, zinc, selenium, iron & co.<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Magnesium<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Zinc<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Selenium<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Iron<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Copper<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Lithium<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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Vitamin K<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n