Shana Tatum, Sydenham Clinic’s renowned expert in nutrition, provided valuable insights into Alzheimer’s disease. Shana’s interest in functional medicine was sparked by her personal health challenges that improved significantly through dietary and holistic wellness. Her experiences underscore the effectiveness of lifestyle changes in managing health conditions, particularly neurodegenerative diseases.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The statistics are alarming, with a projected increase from 1 million affected individuals in 2021 to 9.5 million by 2050. Traditional medicine tends to fall short when considering chronic diseases. However, Alzheimer’s is not inevitable; with the right lifestyle adjustments and early interventions, it is possible to prevent or delay the onset of this disease.
Alzheimer’s involves the buildup of proteins and plaques in the brain, but these are symptoms rather than causes of the disease. Shana emphasizes the importance of addressing what happens before these developments, such as
- Genetic Markers: Presence of APOE (2, 3 or 4) genes, specifically two copies of the ApoE4 gene poses the highest risk of developing Alzheimers. APP, Klotho, PSEN(1 and 2) are some other genes associated with the disease.
- Gut Health and Inflammation: Leaky Gut- which is when the lining of the intestinal tract can become permeable- can lead to systemic inflammation, which consequently may impair the blood-brain barrier and promote neurodegeneration. Inflammation is a key driver of disease progression.
- Glucotoxicity (Type 1.5): Metabolic dysregulation, particularly involving insulin and glucose, is central to the disease.
- Toxicity: Environmental toxins and infections such as mold, Lyme disease or viruses can contribute to this disorder.
- Hormonal factors: Trophic factors like estrogen and BDNF, play crucial roles in brain health.
- Vascular: Poor circulation and vascular issues are prominent features of Alzheimer’s.
- Traumatic: Brain injuries, such as concussions, can lead to brain disorder.
- Sleep: Level of oxygen saturation in sleep, and stages of sleep like REM and deep sleep are also indicators that help us identify Alzheimer’s.
Holistic Diagnostic Approaches
A comprehensive diagnostic approach is crucial in addressing Alzheimer’s disease effectively. At Sydenham Clinic, we start with extensive testing to understand each patient’s unique health profile. This includes:
1. Genomic Testing: By analyzing genetic predispositions, personalized treatment plans can be developed, considering individual risk factors and genetic markers.
2. Comprehensive Blood Tests: Assessing biochemical markers, metabolic and gut health, and micronutrient status provides valuable insights into overall health and potential underlying conditions contributing to Alzheimer’s.
3. Sleep and Stress Evaluation: Monitoring sleep patterns and oxygen saturation levels offers valuable information about brain health and overall well-being, allowing for targeted interventions to improve sleep quality. Cortisol levels can also be better monitored.
4. Body Composition Analysis: Utilizing advanced technology to measure muscle mass, fat mass, and water content helps in understanding metabolic health and identifying potential risk factors for Alzheimer’s.
Personalized Treatment Strategies
Our care doesn’t stop with initial tests; it’s an ongoing partnership. We adapt and refine treatments based on continuous feedback and re-evaluations to ensure that interventions are effective and sustainable. Here are the Key Strategies we implement:
1. Nutritional Optimization: Nutrition is a cornerstone of our approach. Adopting a plant-rich diet high in antioxidants, mega-3 fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, and fiber supports brain health and overall well-being. A diet low in processed foods and high in plant-based, nutrient-dense options is recommended. In fact, a “ketoflex” diet, which emphasizes healthy fats and very low carbohydrates to encourage the body to use ketones and glucose efficiently, is beneficial during treatment phases. Fatty foods like trout and salmon, leafy greens like Bok choy, Swiss chard, collard greens and foods high in calcium, magnesium, fiber and iron as well as nuts and seeds are key during treatment.
2. Supplementation: Addressing nutrient deficiencies identified through genomic and biochemical testing ensures targeted support for optimal health.
3. Stress Management: Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and mindfulness promotes emotional resilience and cognitive well-being.
4. Physical Activity: Regular exercise plays a crucial role in supporting brain health and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
5. Sleep: Prioritizing adequate sleep and optimizing sleep quality contribute to overall brain function and cognitive health.
6. Holistic Wellness: Fostering emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being enhances overall quality of life and resilience in the face of cognitive challenges.
Empowering Patients
The fight against Alzheimer’s is not just about medical interventions; it’s about empowering patients to take control of their health through informed choices. Shana’s holistic and compassionate approach underscores that health is not merely the absence of disease but a vibrant state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Through a comprehensive understanding of disease subtypes and personalized treatment approaches, patients can take proactive steps toward maintaining cognitive vitality and living fulfilling lives.
Unlock the Full Conversation Here
Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube and Spotify channels for more insightful discussions that help you navigate the path to optimized health and longevity.