Hello, this is Dr Dennis again. It’s so lovely to “see” you here. Stop right here if you have just jumped into this blog! I can almost reassure you that this may not make sense if you haven’t followed the last two series of blogs! I humbly invite you to check those out if you haven’t, as they will make more sense.
Friends, the quote above by one of the finest novelists sums it up nicely! We do not need to keep exploring new ways of treating old problems; we need to see them with new eyes and a new perspective! The solutions are often right before us, yet we fail to see them.
What characterises Sub-type 1?
In this sub-type, the Amyloid protein (the “AHA” molecule) acts as a protection for the neurons from inflammation induced by all sorts of insults such as chronic or persistent virus infection (Cold sores around the lips), common oral cavity bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.Gingivalis) which is implicated in periodontal disease and even Ticks. Ticks are parasites that feed on human and animal blood. It can cause Lyme disease caused by bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi from tick bites.
The Leaky Gut Syndrome – Leaky Brain, too?
The other condition gaining traction in medical science is Leaky gut syndrome. “Leaky gut syndrome is a theory that intestinal permeability is not only a symptom of gastrointestinal disease but an underlying cause that develops independently. If your intestinal barrier is impaired, it may be letting toxins into your bloodstream. These toxins may trigger an inflammatory response manifesting as various diseases.” (Quote, Leaky Gut Syndrome: Symptoms, Diet, Tests & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org) & (3).
The continuous exposure of the toxins in the brain led to inflammatory reactions and, hence, Amyloid protein deposition.
Another plausible connection between the gut and the brain is the two molecules known as Occludin and Zonulin. These two molecules help guard the permeability of the gut and blood-brain barriers. Hence, Leaky gut – Leaky brain syndrome. The other potential participating molecule is miro-RNA155. Research is still in its infancy.
Other Causes of Inflammation
- AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products). AGEs are products of blood sugar combined with protein or fat. In excess, these compounds can cause harm, and it has been reported that they are linked to diabetes, premature aging, and Alzheimer’s (1). Modern foods contain relatively high amounts of AGEs. This is mainly due to popular cooking methods that expose food to dry heat, such as barbecuing, grilling, roasting, etc.
- Poor dietary choice. The Western diet has a high sugar content. The constant high sugar level in the blood will produce a high insulin level, known as Hyperinsulinemia. “Hyperinsulinemia is a critical etiological factor in the development of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and premature mortality. (Direct quote, Hyperinsulinemia and Its Pivotal Role in Aging, Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer – PMC. Joseph A M J L Janssen). Insulin resistance will reduce the ability of neuronal cells to utilise glucose as a source of energy (2) and lead to starvation and contraction or cell death.
The Laboratory Test
Few classical markers of inflammation will be elevated in the blood. Although not absolute, it provides evidence and will divert our effort in searching for the underlying causes and contributors.
The Potential Solutions
- Use anti-inflammatory recipes, such as ginger, curcumin, Omega-3, etc.
- Ketoflex 3/12 diet – Induce ketosis. Ketones provide alternative fuel for neurons in the absence of glucose or in the presence of insulin resistance, which disabled the neurons from utilising glucose as an energy source. More on this later!
- MCT oil (Medium chain Triglyceride) as part of a ketogenic diet. Source of MCT oil – Palm kernel and Coconut oil.
- Other supplements – Resveratrol, Vit D3, Magnesium, Ubiquinol (Co-enzyme Q10), Herbs (Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Hericium Erinaceus/Lion’s mane).
- Exercise – 30 mins per day.
- Stress management – mindfulness and relaxation.
- Brain training – cognitive stimulation games. More on this later!
Friends, there is a lot more information about these on the internet. Please feel free to do your research.
Please call my PA, Melissa, on 0422 678 660, leave a message, or email info@mind4lifecoaching.com.au, and we will respond to you if you have any questions.
What is the main take-home message?
- The solution to Alzheimer’s disease may not be as complicated as we think.
- The inflammatory type “Hot” is caused by chronic infection; the key is to find out by diligently investigating the presence of a leaky gut, which is now thought to lead to unwanted toxins being released into the bloodstream and reaching the nervous system.
- There are other causes, such as poor dietary choices and AGEs.
- The solution is to remove the stimulus. The rest will fall into place!