Help Slow Early Dementia

Alzheimer’s has effected over 5.4 million people in the US, yet today there is no cure and the signs are often seen 10-15 years prior to the diagnosis. The center for disease (CDC) listed Alzheimer’s as the 5th leading cause of death in 2016 for individuals over 65.

It is estimated that by 2050 Alzheimer’s will be the 3rd leading cause of death for people over 65. Today treatment for memory loss is limited to just two types of approved drugs, neither of which are a cure. Recent studies has shown that early signs of beta amyloid can be seen during a routine eye exam.

Beta amyloids are one the initial steps in forming sticking plaques that go on to become neural tangles that are recognized as Alzheimer’s. Beta Amyloids productions can be seen in the retina and the intra ocular lens of the eye. Being able to recognize and measure beta amyloids in the eye can lead to early interventions of the disease.

Currently there are two companies working on devices to measure amyloids in the retina and the lens. Drusen, a lipofuscin deposit in the retina is a hallmark sign of macular degeneration and has association with beta amyloids. Certain types of cataracts have also been associated with high levels of beta amyloids circulating in the eye.

Dr. Davis, recently attended The Dynamic Brain Annual International Conference, presented by The Institute Of Functional Medicine. Armed with new tools to aid in the oxidative effects of the eye that may indicate early dementia, Dr. Davis can make suggestions to help slow this process.

Dr.Davis can help address the following lifestyle changes:

• Dietary, factors that may inhibit and enhance retinal function

• Nutraceuticals/botanicals that support retinal function and mitochondria health

• Physical activity and exercise, including specifics of duration, intensity, etc. for ocular heatlh

• The human gut microbiome: prebiotics/probiotics/diet

• Mindfulness-based meditation: the idea that ‘mental states become neural traits’ and how to change mental states, to decrease stress associated retinal changes.