Posted on 06/08/2024 9:46:32 PM PDT by ConservativeMind
A substance naturally occurring in pomegranates, strawberries and walnuts can improve memory and treatment of Alzheimer's disease, a new study concludes.
Forgetfulness, difficulty finding words and confusion about time and place. These are some of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Now researchers have discovered that an ordinary fruit can help.
"Our study on mouse models with AD shows that urolithin A can alleviate memory problems and other consequences of dementia," says Vilhelm Bohr.
"Even though the study was conducted on mouse models, the prospects are positive. So far, research has shown promising results for the substance in the muscles, and clinical trials on humans are being planned," says Bohr.
The researchers previously discovered that a specific molecule, nicotinamide riboside (NAD supplement), plays a key role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as it actively helps remove damaged mitochondria from the brain.
"Many patients with neurodegenerative diseases experience mitochondrial dysfunction. This means that the brain has difficulties removing weak mitochondria, which thus accumulate and affect brain function. If you are able to stimulate the mitophagy process, removing weak mitochondria, you will see some very positive results," Bohr explains.
The results of the new study show that a substance found in pomegranates, urolithin A, removes weak mitochondria from the brain just as effectively as NAD supplement.
The researchers still don't know how much urolithin A is needed to improve memory and alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer's.
"We still cannot say anything conclusive about the dosage. But I imagine that it is more than a pomegranate a day. However, the substance is already available in pill form, and we are currently trying to find the right dosage," Bohr says.
He also hopes the substance can be used for preventive purposes with no significant side effects.
(Excerpt) Read more at medicalxpress.com ...
Ok thanks, that’s why I am considering taking it as well, and if the specific mitochondrial malfunctions involved in dementia are prevented that’s great. I have to do some more reading including your links, regarding use vis-a-vis NAD (unnecessary duplication?), and whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a cause or an effect of various kinds of neurodegeneration.
Because, in reality, they are only B vitamins/Niacin.
Because, in reality, they are only B vitamins/Niacin.
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