Alzheimers patients exhibit a range of symptoms from memory problems to physical complications such as plaques forming in the brain. However, researchers found that vitamin D and a chemical in turmeric may help prevent this process.
Amyloid beta are plaque blockages that damage the brain. The team at the University of California Los Angeles discovered that curcumin combined with vitamin D can prompt the immune system to stop the amyloid beta from forming
Scientists tested one patient mildly affected by Alzheimers, and three healthy patients. The team learned that by administering both substances, the body did break down and reabsorb the amyloid beta compounds effectively.
Dr Milan Fiala explained that “since vitamin D and curcumin work differently with the immune system, we may find that a combination of the two or each used alone may be more effective depending on the individual patient.” She ultimately warned that more testing needed to be done before this could be considered a viable treatment.
According to the American Alzheimers Association, there are currently 5.3 million people living with Alzheimers.
Patients and caregivers alike who would like to boost their vitamin intake may want to turn to nutritional supplements in order to receive the recommended daily amount of vitamin D.