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LMU 339 – Simple Blood Test for Alzheimer’s disease Shows Impressive Accuracy: And the Importance of Vitamin B3 Supplementation in Alzheimer’s Prevention

LMU-339

Simple Blood Test for Alzheimer’s disease Shows Impressive Accuracy: And the Importance of Vitamin B3 Supplementation in Alzheimer's Prevention

Source: Medscape October 29, 2024 & J Neuroscience Nov 5, 2008

Lifestyle Medicine Update (October 31, 2024)

A new and simple blood test has emerged that shows 91% accuracy in confirming Alzheimer’s disease in patients with cognitive symptoms, according to the October 29, 2024, update on Medscape. The blood test is known as the P-tau217 (plasma phosphorylated -tau217), which is an indirect marker of the extent to which the brain is accumulating neurofibrillary tangles from the breakdown of its tau protein. Neurofibrillary tangles in the brain are a hallmark feature of Alzheimer’s disease, which also promotes death of brain cells. Neurofibrillary tangles occur when the tau proteins that hold many key structural components together within brains cells, breakdown and coalesce into neurofibrillary tangles. Until recently only MRI and PET scan images of the brain could identify the extent of neurofibrillary tangle accumulation, along with examining cerebral spinal fluid from the patient’s spine. But with the advent of this new blood test (P-tau217), a greater number of individuals can undergo early, simple and non-invasive detection for Alzheimer’s disease. The blood test will also likely be used to predict who is at increased risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease in the future.

So, all of this is great, but what about preventing neurofibrillary tangle development in the first place. The best research on this topic involves the ingestion of vitamin B3 in the form of nicotinamide. .As brilliantly outlined in the journal Neuroscience, nicotinamide is virtually the only known substance that prevents the breakdown of tau protein in the brain. Animal studies have shown that in mice that are bred to be genetically prone to Alzheimer’s disease, the administration of nicotinamide in their drinking water prevented the development of neurofibrillary tangles and it restored cognitive defects and enhanced memory.

The researchers concluded that not only can nicotinamide help prevent tau breakdown in the brain, but that preclinical trials suggest nicotinamide supplementation should be considered as a safe adjunctive treatment in patients who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease to help slow further tau breakdown and brain cell death. The first time that we had a hint that vitamin B3 could help prevent Alzheimer’ s disease was back in 2004, in the Rush Institute Study, which followed over 6,000 Chicago residents, aged 65 and older, whereby those with the highest ingestion of vitamin B3 (niacin) showed a slower annual rate of cognitive decline and protection against Alzheimer’s disease, after controlling for age, sex, race, education, and well known Apo E genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Since 2004 many studies have shown that niacin, in the form of nicotinamide, helps to stabilize tau protein in the brain, reducing the development of neurofibrillary tangles. And, as reported in the journal of Neuroscience in 2008, nicotinamide shows other effects on supporting the stability and viability of brain cells (i.e., increases acetylation of alpha-tubulin).

In my view, a very wise thing to do each day is to take a high potency multiple vitamin that contain a B-50 complex, which includes 50 mg of vitamin B3 in the form of nicotinamide. Be sure that the vitamin B3 in your supplement is nicotinamide not nicotinic acid, as only nicotinamide has been shown to provide these important tau-stabilizing brain protective effects.

I have included the references for this information in the text below.

References:

Medscape, October 29, 2024.  Blood test for Alzheimer’s Are Here… Are clinicians ready? Megan Brooks (Oct 24, 2024). Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s Are Here…Are Clinicians Ready?

Green K.N. et al. Nicotinamide restores cognition in Alzheimer’s disease transgenic mice via a mechanism involving Sirtuin inhibition and selective reduction of Thr321-phosphotau. J Neuroscience. 2008, 28(45): 11500-11510. Nicotinamide Restores Cognition in Alzheimer’s Disease Transgenic Mice via a Mechanism Involving Sirtuin Inhibition and Selective Reduction of Thr231-Phosphotau | Journal of Neuroscience

Morris M et al.  Dietary niacin and the risk of incident Alzheimer’s disease and of cognitive decline. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.  2004, 75(8): 10193-1099.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1739176/

 

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 338 – Glucosamine: An Important Anti-Aging Drug? Human and Animal Studies Show Its Disease Prevention and Life Extending Impact

LMU-338

Glucosamine: An Important Anti-Aging Drug? Human and Animal Studies Show Its Disease Prevention and Life Extending Impact

Source: Human Nutrition & Metabolism (2021)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (October 10, 2024)

As we age, roughly around age 40, our body makes less of a substance known as glucosamine.  As glucosamine is required to maintain the cartilage in our joints, a number of studies have shown that supplementing with glucosamine can help to slow and sometimes reverse symptoms of osteoarthritis. I personally think that everyone over 40 should take a low dose glucosamine supplement (500 mg per day) that also includes some natural anti-inflammatory agents like Quercetin, MSM and Bromelain Enzymes, as one way to help prevent osteoarthritis from developing and/or decelerate its progression. But glucosamine supplementation is now showing potential as a very important anti-aging drug. This stems from the fact that the administration of glucosamine not only supports joint cartilage, but at the cellular level it is involved in many processes shown to extend lifespan and reduce risk of some chronic degenerative diseases. One human observational study has already documented that individuals who took glucosamine supplements showed a 17% lower risk of total mortality compared to non-glucosamine users, and a 2020 study of 490,000 individuals showed that glucosamine supplementation was associated with reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, digestive disease, and mortality, compared to non-glucosamine users.

These observations are strengthened by recent animal studies. Since the year 2014 two animal experiments showed that the lifespan of mice and nematodes was extended with orally administered glucosamine. In the 2014 mouse experiment, data showed that the average lifespan of mice was extended by approximately 10% along with improvements in energy metabolism in those given glucosamine supplements. In a nematode study (C. elegans), life expectancy increased up to 30% with glucosamine administration.

When researchers investigate anti-aging drugs, they often first look at results obtained from mice and nematode studies. A lifespan extension of 10-30% in these animal studies is considered to be very significant in modern day anti-aging research. The authors of the research review I am citing today, which was published in Human Nutrition & Metabolism, go on to explain the various cellular processes impacted by glucosamine that help to explain its positive effects on longevity and reduced risk of many common degenerative diseases.

I maintain that after age 40 it is a good idea for prevention purposes to consider taking a supplement that contains glucosamine sulphate with quercetin, MSM and bromelain. This combination can help to preserve and support joint cartilage, minimize age-related inflammation and possibly affect key cellular processes that can extend your healthy life expectancy and quality of life. I have included a link to the research paper entitled, “Shifting the focus of D-glucosamine from a dietary supplement for knee osteoarthritis to a potential anti-aging drug”, in the text below.

Reference:

Shintani H et al. Shifting the focus of D-glucosamine from a dietary supplement for knee osteoarthritis to a potential anti-aging drug. Human Nutrition & Metabolism. 2021, vol 26. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666149721000165#bib25

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 337 – Icariin Flavonoid Continues to Show Positive Effects on Preventing and Managing Osteoporosis

LMU-337

Icariin Flavonoid Continues to Show Positive Effects on Preventing and Managing Osteoporosis

Source: Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2017)

Lifestyle Medicine Update no (Sept 25, 2024)

Back in the year 2007 the first clinical trial was published showing that supplementation with 60 mg per day of icariin flavonoid from the Epimedium Herb, provided to postmenopausal woman for 24-months, showed a beneficial effect on preserving their overall bone density, compared to the placebo group. This study was carried out because animal studies had previously shown that the icariin flavonoid stimulates bone development (osteoblastic activity) and inhibits bone breakdown (osteoclastic activity). The icariin flavonoid is found the Epimedium herb that is very popular in Chinese Traditional Medicine. This compound is reported to be a potent enhancer of bone fracture healing, and extracts containing the icariin flavonoid can reduce the occurrence of postmenopausal osteoporosis in rats that have had their ovaries removed (ovariectomized rats). This means that in the absence of estrogen, the icariin flavonoid alone is able to preserve bone density in these animal studies. The other good news is that studies, thus far, reveal that the icariin flavonoid does not have any major side effects and shows a good safety profile. As such, Health Canada and the US FDA allow the sale of icariin flavonoid in natural health products – usually bone support supplements and libido-enhancing supplements.

In the year 2017 a new study was published that revealed more in depth molecular details by which the icariin flavonoid is able to stimulate new bone growth and inhibit the breakdown of bone. The study was published in the Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. The study not only showed that the icariin flavonoid improved bone density in a rat model of osteoporosis, but that withdrawal of the icariin supplementation resulted in bone loss. I believe this research is important because approximately 40% of women and 13% of men aged 50 and older will experience at least one fracture during the remainder of their lifetime and much of this is due to age-related bone loss, which can be prevented through prudent nutritional and lifestyle medicine practices in most cases. In fact, more women die in Canada each year from the complications of osteoporotic hip fractures than from the combine death rate from breast and ovarian cancers. And we know that many of those fractures are preventable if women could maintain more optimal bone density. The icariin flavonoid is one a very few phytonutrients that is shown to support bone density as we age.

Most people know that calcium and vitamin D are important to help maintain bone density as they age, but many people are unaware of the important studies showing the efficacy and safety of icariin flavonoid supplementation. For this reason, I believe that bone support supplements should include a daily dose of 300 mg of the Epimedium herb, standardized to 20% icariin flavonoid content (which yields 60 mg of icariin flavonoid content), in conjunction with other standard bone support nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium.

I have included the references on the icariin flavonoid and bone density in the text below.

References:

Shi W, Gao Y et al. The flavonol glycoside icariin promotes bone formation in growing rats by activating the cAMP signalling pathway in primary cilia of osteoblasts. Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. 2017, 292(51): 20883-20896. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5743065/

Zhang G et al. Epimedium-derived phytoestrogen flavonoids exert beneficial effect on preventing bone loss in late postmenopausal women: a 24-month randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial. J Bone Mineral Research. 2007, 22(7): 1072-1079. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17419678/

Wang Z et al. The effect of icariin on bone metabolism and its potential clinical application. Osteoporosis International. 2018, 29(3): 535-544. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29110063/

Li XF et al. Icariin augments bone formation and reverses the phenotypes of osteoprotegerin-deficient mice through the activation of  Wnt-beta-catenin-BMP signalling. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2013. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24348713/

Long L et al.  Icariin : A potential alternative against osteoporosis.  Sage Journals: Natural Products Communication. 2022,17(11): 1-15. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1934578X221134881

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 336 – Red Meat and Processed Meat and Colorectal Cancer Risk

LMU-336

Red Meat and Processed Meat and Colorectal Cancer Risk

Source: J. Gastroenterology (2024); J Critical Reviews in Food and Science Nutrition (2024)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (September 4, 2024)

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer world-wide and the second leading cause of cancer death. As reported in 2024 in the journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (June 24, 2024) colorectal cancer incidence is rising in younger people. This relates to the fact that colorectal cancer development, in most cases, involves an interplay between genetics and environmental factors (especially dietary factors). The review provides convincing evidence, that taken together, studies show that a diet that is high in red meat and alcohol is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. A diet that is high in dietary fiber, calcium and yogurt is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.

They also report that studies show that colorectal cancer patients have better survival outcomes after medical treatment if they follow a diet that is more plant-based, is low in refined and starchy carbohydrates, and includes fish (high in omega-3 fats), whole cereal fiber, vegetables, and wholegrains, but not fruit, and excludes alcohol. Whereas poorer survival outcomes are associated with a diet high in refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages. (1)

Another study published in 2024 in the journal Gastroenterology suggests very strongly that a person’s diet largely determines the composition of the gut microflora (bacteria that live in the large intestine) and that high levels of certain gut bacteria are strongly associated with the development of colorectal cancer. In their analysis of the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study and the Nurses Health Study and the Nurses Health Study II, which comprised over 6,464,378 person-years, they found that individuals with high gut concentrations of three specific gut-bacteria were at much high risk (20-40 % higher risk) for colorectal cancer. The three gut bacteria include:

Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum)
The pks strain of E. Coli
Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides Fragalis (ETBF)

Examining stool samples from thousands of individuals the most striking finding from these studies was that individuals with the highest intake of processed foods and the lowest intake of fiber-rich foods had higher stool levels of these three colorectal cancer-linked bacteria and these individuals experienced a roughly 25-40% increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, compared to individuals who consumed few processed foods and regularly consumed high fiber foods. As the researchers concluded, “A dietary pattern with a low consumption of processed foods may help prevent colorectal cancer through modulation of the gut microbiome.”

From my perspective, the evidence has been mounting for many years that a high animal fat, high refined carbohydrate diet is strongly linked to colorectal cancer development, whereas a diet with less animal fat (with the exception of fish) and higher in fiber-rich plant-based foods is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer, in general.  But we learn from recent studies that highly processed foods, including bacon, luncheon and deli meats may be even more dangerous than high animal fat foods alone, as these foods tend to encourage the proliferation within the gut of dangerous bacteria that appear to be involved in colorectal cancer development. (2) Adding to this evidence, an April 2024 report from the Fred Hutch Cancer Center cited evidence that a high meat diet increases colorectal cancer risk by 30% and a diet high in processed meat increased colorectal cancer risk by 40%. For individuals with certain genetic traits the consumption of red meat and/or processed meat increases colorectal cancer even further.  They also point out that obesity and regular alcohol consumption are strongly correlated with increased risk of colorectal, even in people under 60 years of age. (3)

My advice is to begin getting colorectal cancer screening by age 45 or 50, in most cases, and to remain at or near your ideal body weight, avoid red meat and processed meat as much as possible, don’t drink alcohol or use it judiciously, avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, and ingest fiber-rich vegetables, grains and legumes (beans and peas) on a daily basis. I also think that low-fat, sugar-free yogurt is a good way to obtain friendly gut bacteria as well as calcium, which are both associated with lower colorectal cancer risk in many studies. One last comment is that if you are using a protein shake to support your muscle and lean mass, make sure the protein shake contains less than 1 gm of fat, is low in sugar and is enriched with gut-healthy dietary fiber.

I have provided the key references for this information in the text below.

References:

Fretwell A et al. Still too little evidence: the role of diet in colorectal cancer survivorship – a systematic review. Critical Reviews in Food and Science Nutrition. June 11, 2024. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408398.2024.2360068#abstract

Wang K et al. An empirical dietary pattern associated with gut microbial features in relation to colorectal cancer risk. Gastroenterology. August 6, 2024. An Empirical Dietary Pattern Associated with the Gut Microbial Features in Relation to Colorectal Cancer Risk – Gastroenterology (gastrojournal.org)

Colorectal Cancer Risk and Red and Processed Meat. Hutch News Stories. April 23, 2024. https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/center-news/2024/04/colorectal-cancer-risk-boosted-by-red-processed-meat-genetics.html

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 335 – Exercise Improves Erectile Dysfunction as Effectively as Viagra: Natural Strategies for Maintaining Male Sexual Health

Best diet

Exercise Improves Erectile Dysfunction as Effectively as Viagra: Natural Strategies for Maintaining Male Sexual Health

Source: The Journal of Sexual Medicine (December 2023)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (August 21, 2024)

An important study was published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in December of 2023 showing that regular aerobic exercise (30 minutes three times per week) improves erectile dysfunction scores in men to the same degree as using drugs like Viagra and Cialis. The researchers reviewed 11 randomized controlled trials involving 1100 men, where by 600 men were assigned to the intervention group, performing aerobic exercise 30-60 minutes three times per week and the other 500 men served as the placebo group (no formal aerobic exercise). The study clearly showed that the addition of aerobic exercise improved male sexual functioning to the same degree as using Viagra or Cialis-type drugs, regardless of body weight, overall health or concurrent medication use. And the worse the original erectile dysfunction score, the greater was the improvement with the addition of exercise. In other words, men with the most severe erectile dysfunction saw the greatest benefit.

This is not surprising, as aerobic exercise improves endothelial function, meaning that it prompts the secretion of nitric oxide from cells that line the blood vessels, allowing them to dilate, – which is the key step in generating an erection. Drugs like Viagra slow down the breakdown of nitric oxide, but these drugs do not increase the synthesis and release of nitric oxide, which is every bit as important. The improvement of endothelial function with aerobic exercise doesn’t just help with erections and sexual function, but it improves blood circulation throughout the entire body, reducing risk of cardiovascular disease.  It also burns fat and helps to prevent and reverse type diabetes, and it is shown to help reduce risk of dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease.

You may also want to know that there are some natural agents that can also increase nitric oxide release and to improve male sexual function in a number of ways. They are often combined into a single supplement formulation that would typically include:

  • Tribulus Terrestris – std to 40-45% saponin content
  • Muira Puama – 4:1 extract
  • Maca Root – 4:1 extract
  • Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) – 20:1 extract
  • Damiana – 4:1 extract
  • Avena Sativa – 10:1 extract

The bottom line for today is that regular aerobic exercise is a key component of overall health, and it also helps to reverse and maintain more optimal sexual potency in men, proving once again that lifestyle medicine is good medicine. I have included the references for the exercise and erectile dysfunction study and the Medscape review in the text below.

References:

Khera M et al. Effect of aerobic exercise on erectile dysfunction: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2023, 20 (12): 1369-1375. https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article/20/12/1369/7301709?login=false#420408836

Southwick C. Exercise as Good as Viagra for ED: Study. Medscape August 21, 2024. https://www.medscape.com/s/viewarticle/997634 

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 334 – DASH Diet Helps Prevent and Reverse Fatty Liver Problems in Type 2 Diabetics

LMU-334

DASH Diet Helps Prevent and Reverse Fatty Liver Problems in Type 2 Diabetics

Source: Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism (April 2024)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (August 12, 2024)

Fatty liver problems not caused by alcohol consumption is a leading cause of liver disease world-wide, with an estimated 32% of adults afflicted with this condition. If left untreated, fatty liver problems can progress to liver fibrosis and life-threatening cirrhosis of liver cancer, all of which are on the increase. 

Type 2 diabetics are particularly prone to non-alcohol-induced fatty liver problems. As stated in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism in April 2024, “the majority of individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese and approximately 60% have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatolic liver disease (MASLD).”  (which means fatty liver disease) It is well documented that patients with higher levels of fat in their liver and around their internal organs (visceral fat) have in increased risk for cardiovascular, kidney and liver diseases.

In their study involving 335 diabetic patients the researchers collected dietary information from the participants and compared it to their levels of liver fat, visceral fat (fat around the abdominal organs), and subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin). The study showed that after 5-years of follow up the diabetic patients who most closely followed the DASH diet style of eating had significantly lower amounts of liver fat and visceral fat and tended to also have a lower body mass index and smaller waist circumference. The DASH Diet emphasizes fruit, vegetables, nuts and legumes, low-fat dairy products and whole grains, as well as low intake of sodium, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB’s), red meat and processed meat. The diet allows lean protein foods such as poultry, fish, egg whites and soy products. And it allows some healthy fat from olive oil and avocado oil, as an example. The diet was originally designed to help patients reduce high blood pressure, where it has shown impressive outcomes. But the DASH Diet also provides an excellent guideline for overweight, obese patients and type 2 diabetic patients, and especially for patients showing signs of fatty liver problems. As the researchers indicated, this is not the first study to show that adherence to the DASH Diet can help reverse the amount of liver fat and visceral fat in various patient groups.

I provided a link below that explains the details of the DASH Diet in case you are not familiar with it. It is a very healthy approach to eating in general, in my view. Link to the DASH Diet details: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000784.htm#:~:text=The%20DASH%20diet%20is%20low,help%20lower%20high%20blood%20pressure.

I also provided a link to the research paper I cited today from the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism (April 2024).

References:

Schaefer E. et al. Adherence to the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is associated with lower visceral and hepatic lipid content in recent-onset type 1diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, Obestity and Metabolism. 2024;1-12 https://dom-pubs.pericles-prod.literatumonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/dom.15772

Bhattcharya S. Can DASH Diet Reduce Liver Fat in Type 2 Diabetics? Medscape. August 12, 2024.
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/can-dash-diet-reduce-liver-fat-type-2-diabetes-2024a1000drp?ecd=wnl_tp10_daily_240728_MSCPEDIT_etid6699820&uac=342474MN&impID=6699820

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 333 – 50% of Dementia Cases Preventable with These 14 Modifiable Risk Factors

LMU-333

50% of Dementia Cases Preventable with These 14 Modifiable Risk Factors

Source: The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care (Medscape August 8, 2024)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (August 8, 2024)

We all know that we have an aging population, and that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are becoming major health challenges in our society. As there are no specific genes that account for most dementia and Alzheimer’s disease cases, it’s not surprising to learn that diet and lifestyle factors are emerging as extremely important factors that appear to account for roughly 50% of the risk of developing these problems. In 2017 the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care, cited 12 risk factors that accounted for many cases of dementia. But on July 31, 2024, they published new data showing that there are two additional risk factors that need to be added to the list. According to the 2024 report the authors state, “new compelling evidence” shows that untreated vision loss and an elevated LDL-cholesterol blood level need to be added the other 12 known risk factors for dementia. The good news is that all 14 of these risk factors can be largely controlled though a healthy diet, physical activity and proper attention to other brain health strategies.

So, the total list of modifiable risk factors for dementia now includes these 14 factors:

Hearing impairment (untreated)
Lower Level of Education
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Smoking
Obesity
Depression
Physica Inactivity
Diabetes
Excess Alcohol Consumption
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Air Pollution
Social Isolation
Untreated Vision Loss
Elevated LDL-Cholesterol

The 2024 report also outlines 13 recommendations aimed at individuals and governments to help guard against dementia. They include preventing and treating hearing loss, vision loss, and depression; being cognitively active throughout life; using head protection in contact sports; reducing vascular risk factors (high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, hypertension); improving air quality; and providing supportive community environments to increase social contact. In the Medscape Interview Shaheen Lakhan, MD, PhD, neurologist and researcher based in Miami, Florida, said “the addition of high cholesterol (to the list of dementia risk factors) is particularly noteworthy as it reinforces the intricate connection between vascular health and brain health — a link we’ve long suspected but can now target more effectively.” So, among other things, get those bad fats out of your diet that typically raise the LDL-cholesterol and get your LDL-cholesterol checked. It should be below 2.0 mmol/L (76 mg/dl). Have regular eye exams and hearing tests as you get older. Stay fit and follow the other advice outlined by the Lancet group. In addition, I believe that everyone over the age of 55 should take a supplement each day with ingredients shown to support memory function, which include:

CDP-choline
Huperzine A
Bacopa Monnieri
Phosphatidylserine.

The overarching message is that dementia does not have to be part of the normal aging process, and that we must look beyond genes as the cause of dementias. Once again, lifestyle medicine emerges as good medicine with the potential to cut dementia risk by roughly 50%. And don’t underestimate the benefits of memory support supplement ingredients like CDP-choline, Huperzine A, Bacopa Monnieri and Phosphatidylserine. I have seen this combination of nutrients provide significant benefit to older individuals. I have provided a link to the Medscape article outlining the 2024 findings and recommendations from the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention and Care, as well as the link to The Lancet publication itself.

References:

Megan Brooks. Almost 50% of Global Dementia Cases May Be Preventable. Medscape. August 8, 2024. Almost 50% of Global Dementia Cases May Be Preventable (medscape.com)

Dementia prevention, intervention, and care 2024. The Lancet. July 31, 2024. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care 2024 (thelancet.com)

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 332 – Boswellia Supplementation: Combating Malignant Brain Tumours and Radiation Side Effects

LMU-332

Boswellia Supplementation: Combating Malignant Brain Tumours and Radiation Side Effects

Source: Oncology Letter (2016) and Natural Medicine Journal (2020)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (July 31, 2024)

Brain and nervous system cancers are the 10th leading cause of death in North America. The cause of most brain cancers remains elusive. From the standpoint of nutritional medicine, what is noteworthy is the evidence showing that natural constituents derived from the Boswellia tree can cross the blood-brain-barrier and enter the brain. Within the brain these natural constituents, in particular boswellic acids, are shown to suppress inflammation (edema) and experimentally induce programmed cell death of certain human brain cancer cells (i.e., glioblastoma). As stated in the June 2016 Oncology Letter, “Boswellic acids (BA) have long been considered as useful adjunct pharmacological agents for the treatment of patients with malignant brain tumours, notably glioblastoma”. The study presented in this communication went on to show that boswellic acids, under experimental conditions, showed that it induced programmed cell death of nine different human brain cancer cell types known as gliomas (one type is glioblastoma). In this study boswellic acids also enhanced the brain tumour killing effects of a popular brain cancer chemotherapy drug called temozolomide (TMZ), and boswellic acids enhanced the brain cancer cell killing effect of radiation treatment, which is also commonly used to treat various brain tumours.

In 2020 an important human study was published that used Boswellia supplementation (4500 mg per day in divided doses, standardized to 32.2% boswellic acids) as an adjunctive treatment in 18 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. These patients also received standard medical care, including surgery or biopsy, radiotherapy, and treatment with the chemotherapy drug temozolomide. Overall, the study showed that the use of Boswellia extract significantly reduced brain swelling (and related side effects) that typically result from the use of chemotherapy drugs and radiation of brain tumours. Brain swelling (edema) from chemo drugs and radiation often cause many unpleasant side effects. Medical doctors typically prescribe a drug called dexamethasone (similar to prednisone) to control brain swelling under these conditions, but dexamethasone treatment is known to counter the benefits of chemo drugs and radiation and increases brain tumour growth. Dexamethasone also produces an array of other very undesirable side effects. This study showed that Boswellia extract supplementation is a good substitution for dexamethasone in patients being treated for glioblastoma, as it not only suppresses brain swelling (edema), but boswellic acids exhibit brain cancer cell killing effects, which is synergistic to the chemo and radiation treatment protocol.

From my standpoint, it’s important to remember that the anti-inflammatory effects of boswellic acid have also shown efficacy in improving outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions. As we age the body naturally increases the synthesis and release of certain inflammation promoting chemicals (cytokines and prostaglandins). This makes us more prone to arthritic changes, joint and muscle swelling, and background pain and discomfort. Based on this, I have suggested that people over the age of 40 or 45 do what I do, and that is to take a supplement each day that combines four natural and effective anti-inflammatory agents; namely, Boswellia, Curcumin, White Willow Extract and Ginger Extract. These four natural agents work synergistically to help suppress inflammation in the body. Unlike aspirin and related drugs, these natural agents do not cause stomach irritation, ulcers, internal bleeding, high blood pressure, liver and kidney damage or congestive heart failure. As a bonus, the boswellic acids also cross the blood-brain-barrier, entering brain cells, where experimental evidence cited below suggests that they may help to block key steps in the development of some lethal brain cancers. Curcumin is also known to cross the blood-brain-barrier and is shown to provide some important neuroprotective effects as well. So, the combination of Boswellia Extract, Curcumin, White Willow Extract and Ginger Extract is not only good for your joints, but is also likely to be beneficial for your brain.

I have included the references on Boswellia and Brain Tumours in the text below.

References:

Schneider H and Weller M. Boswellic acid activity against glioblastoma stem-like cells. Oncology Letter. 2016, 11(6): 4187-4192. Boswellic acid activity against glioblastoma stem-like cells – PMC (nih.gov)

West K. Boswellia and brain tumors. Natural Medicine Journal. March 4, 2020. Boswellia and Brain Tumors | Natural Medicine Journal

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 331 – Omega-3 Fat Supplements in Type 2 Diabetics Reduce Heart, Kidney, Eye, and Nerve Damage Complications and Risk Factors, Compared to Patients Not Using Omega-3 Supplements

LMU-331

Omega-3 Fat Supplements in Type 2 Diabetics Reduce Heart, Kidney, Eye, and Nerve Damage Complications and Risk Factors, Compared to Patients Not Using Omega-3 Supplements

Source: The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (July 12, 2024)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (July 24, 2024)

A very large and important study was published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in July 2024.  Using data from the UK Biobank Study, which followed over 20,000 type 2 diabetics for an average of 13.2 years, the study showed that type 2 diabetics who take omega-3 fat supplements daily had 10% lower risk of heart disease, peripheral artery disease, diabetic kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic neuropathy. Type 2 diabetics who did not take omega-3 fat supplements did not see the same benefits. This is important because many type 2 diabetics die from heart attacks and they are very high risk for blindness from diabetic retinopathy (macular degeneration) and kidney disease requiring dialysis, as well as impaired circulation to the legs and feet (often causing intractable pain or leading to gangrene and amputation). They also have a high risk for nerve pain from diabetic neuropathy.

A 10% reduction in the risk of these complications and outcomes from simply taking an omega-3 supplement each day is a ground-breaking discovery. If they invented a drug that could reduce these complications and outcomes by 10% in type 2 diabetics, it would be all over the news and doctors would be prescribing it as regular or mandatory course of treatment. But, because we are talking about supplements, the chances are pretty good that most doctors will never see this research and patients will never know about it. That is why I am bringing this research to your attention today. The researchers on the study explained that omega-3 fats appear to be helpful because they lower blood fat levels and reduce circulating levels of inflammation-promoting chemicals (i.e., cytokines and prostaglandins) linked to vascular complications and nerve damage in all regions of the body. In previous updates I showed evidence that the safe and effective dosage of omega-3 fat supplementation is between 800 and 1200 mg per day. This remains a good target for type 2 diabetics. But it is also a good target for the rest of us as well, as this level of intake can help promote improved cardiovascular health and brain health for just about everyone. This is one more striking illustration that evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle medicine is good medicine.

I have provided a link to the research paper in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in the text below.

References:

Tian S et al. Fish oil, plasma n-3 PUFA, and risk of macro-and microvascular complications among individuals with type 2 diabetes. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. July 12, 2024. Fish Oil, Plasma n-3 PUFAs, and Risk of Macro- and Microvascular Complications among Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes | The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism | Oxford Academic (oup.com)

Choudhury J. Fish oil supplements cut diabetes complications risk. Medscape July 24, 2024. Fish Oil Supplements Cut Diabetes Complication Risk (medscape.com)

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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LMU 330 – Huperzine A Improves Memory and Cognition in Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and Shows Promise of Prevention

LMU-330

Huperzine A Improves Memory and Cognition in Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and Shows Promise of Prevention

Source: The Journal of the Chinese Medical Association 2019 and the International Journal of Molecular Science 2022

Lifestyle Medicine Update (July 16, 2024)

It’s quite likely that you have never heard of the natural supplement Huperzine A, but it is an alkaloid that was discovered many years ago in the Huperzia Serrata plant in China. I bring it to your attention because Huperzine A shows proven effects on raising brain levels of the memory chemical (neurotransmitter) acetylcholine and it has been used successfully in a number of studies to improve early-stage Alzheimer’s disease – by reversing early-stage memory loss problems and improving cognition. The most recent human study was published in 2019, which included 50 Alzheimer’s patients and 50 healthy individuals. Prior to Huperzine A supplementation the Alzheimer’s patients showed deficits in cognition and task switching ability compared to healthy individuals. After just 8-weeks of Huperzine A supplementation the Alzheimer’s patients showed significant improvement in cognition and task switching abilities. https://journals.lww.com/jcma/fulltext/2019/01000/huperzine_a_response_to_cognitive_impairment_and.8.aspx

This is not the first study to show these kinds of impressive results in memory loss patients.  A large study published in 2002, involving 202 patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, who were treated at 15 different health centre locations, showed that the patients given 400 mcg per day of Huperzine for 12-weeks realized significant improvement in cognitive test scores compared to the placebo group.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12181083/  In 2009 a review of all available Huperzine A studies was published in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy journal. The researchers stated that data suggest that Huperzine A may improve cognition within an 8-12-week period with objective improvements of 1-5 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19240260/ In 2022 a review of all Huperzine A studies involving animal trials was published in the International Journal of Molecular Science. The researchers showed that Huperzine A not only slows down the breakdown of the memory chemical acetylcholine (by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase) but it also stimulates acetylcholine synthesis (by stimulating the enzyme choline acetyltransferase).Animal studies also show that Huperzine A improved memory performance using maze testing and it decreased beta-amyloid plaque build-up in the brain of these animals.  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/23/15238  Other studies have shown additional neuroprotective effects of Huperzine A, such as protecting the brain against various toxins including organophosphates (which are insecticides with known brain-damaging effects) and reducing glutamate-induced brain cell death, as often occurs with head trauma and related concussion injuries. https://oce.ovid.com/article/00006489-200306000-00020  Other impressive neuroprotective effects of Huperzine A were published in the journal Trends in Pharmacological Sciences in 2006, which include boosting brain antioxidant protection, reducing brain cell death (apoptosis) and regulating the secretion of nerve growth factor (NGF) and NGF-signalling.  https://www.cell.com/trends/pharmacological-sciences/abstract/S0165-6147(06)00247-1?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0165614706002471%3Fshowall%3Dtrue

These are all important physiological effects that slow brain aging and reduce risk of memory loss. On balance, we known that once ingested Huperzine A easily crosses the blood-brain-barrier and enters brain cells. Once inside brain cells Huperzine A can help to increase levels of the memory chemical acetylcholine, which is critically important to patients with early memory loss problems. And Huperzine A also shows other impressive neuroprotective effects linked to Alzheimer’s disease prevention. I believe that it is a good idea for most people over the age of 55 to take a memory support supplement each day that contains:

Huperzine A
CDP-Choline
Phosphatidylserine
Bacopa Monnieri

These four natural agents work together to help support memory function as the brain ages, and each of these ingredients has been shown to reverse memory loss and cognitive deficits in patients with mild cognitive impairment and other early -stage dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease. I think that when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease, prevention is a key component and this supplement combination, along with other brain support measures, should be a strong consideration for anyone 55 years of age or older in my view.

I have included the main Huperzine A references in the text below.

References:

Amara G et al. Huperzine-A response to cognitive impairment and task switching deficits in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Journal of the Chinese Medical Association. 2019, 82(1): 40-43. https://journals.lww.com/jcma/fulltext/2019/01000/huperzine_a_response_to_cognitive_impairment_and.8.aspx

Zhang Z. et al. Clinical efficacy and safety of huperzine Alpha in treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial. 2002, 82(14): 941-944. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12181083/

Desilets A.R. et al. Role of huperzine A in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Ann Pharmacother. 2009, 43(3): 514-518. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19240260/

Yan Ye-Pioa et al. Disease-modifying activity of huperzine A on Alzheimer’s disease: Evidence from preclinical studies on rodent models. Int J Mole Sci. 2022, 23(23): 15238. https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/23/15238

 

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
Dr. Meschino

Recommended Supplements

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.