Dementia: A modern disease
What is it?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. It’s not a specific disease but a group of symptoms caused by disorders affecting the brain. The most common form is Alzheimer's disease, though there are many types, including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.
Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, with around 900,000 cases in the UK alone. The risk of developing dementia increases with age, but it’s not a normal part of aging.
Dementia can severely impact an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities, and it often progresses over time, leading to greater dependency on caregivers.
Symptoms
Dementia symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity but often include:
Memory loss (particularly recent events).
Difficulty concentrating or problem-solving.
Confusion about time or place.
Changes in mood, personality, or behavior.
Struggling to follow conversations or find the right words.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks.
Poor judgment or decision-making.
Visual and spatial issues, such as difficulty interpreting distances.
Symptoms often start mildly and worsen as the condition progresses.
Causes
Dementia results from damage to brain cells, which impairs their ability to communicate. This damage can be caused by:
Alzheimer’s disease – The buildup of abnormal proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) in the brain.
Vascular issues – Reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or small vessel disease.
Lewy bodies – Clumps of protein in brain cells linked to cognitive decline.
Head injuries – Past head trauma increases the risk.
Genetics – Certain genes may increase susceptibility, particularly in early-onset cases.
Inflammation – Chronic inflammation may play a role in brain degeneration.
Nutritional deficiencies – Low levels of certain nutrients, such as B12, Omega 3, may contribute.
How do GPs diagnose dementia?
There is no single test for dementia. Diagnosis involves:
Taking a detailed medical history, including changes in memory and behavior.
Performing physical and neurological exams.
Conducting cognitive tests to assess memory, language, and problem-solving abilities.
Ordering blood tests to rule out other causes like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issues.
Brain scans, such as MRIs or CTs, to identify structural abnormalities.
Early diagnosis is crucial for planning and managing the condition.
What treatment is available?
While there is no cure for dementia, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
Medications:
Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil) to improve communication between brain cells.
Medications to manage mood or behavioral changes.
Therapies:
Cognitive stimulation therapy to enhance memory and thinking.
Occupational therapy to support daily activities.
Lifestyle changes:
Staying mentally and physically active.
Eating a balanced diet rich in brain-supporting nutrients.
Support:
Engaging with support groups or counseling for patients and caregivers.
How can a nutritional therapist help?
Nutritional therapy can play a key role in supporting brain health and slowing cognitive decline.
My approach:
Support brain cell communication by improving neurotransmitter function.
Reduce inflammation through an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle changes.
Optimize nutrient intake for brain health, including omega-3s, B vitamins, and antioxidants.
Promote vascular health to improve blood flow to the brain.
Address gut health to support the gut-brain axis.
Assess and reduce oxidative stress by identifying environmental or lifestyle triggers.
Aid detoxification through environmental and dietary interventions to reduce neural toxic damage.
Functional Testing
I recommend an FDX advanced blood analysis to assess inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and oxidative stress. Depending on symptoms, I may also suggest a gut microbiome or genetic test to uncover any underlying factors.
If you or a loved one is facing dementia, help is available. Get in touch to explore how nutritional therapy can support brain health and quality of life.