Scientists are studying one man’s theory that the real culprit in Alzheimer’s is a copper and zinc buildup in the brain. Since 1996, this theory was criticized because it ran counter to the leading theory but now researchers are starting to think differently because of a new promising drug that is being presently studied.
For many years, scientists have believed that Alzheimer’s disease was due to protein clumps in the brain, which highlighted metals, mainly aluminum, as the main offender. However, the other theory suggests that the accumulated metals (zinc and copper) mix abnormally with a protein called beta amyloid in the brain, which oxidizes and destroys the body’s nerve cells.
The researcher’s theory is still far from being clear that he has unearthed a new key to the treatment of Alzheimer’s since it is difficult to measure copper and zinc in the human brain.
USA Today December 26, 2003
As the population continues to age, the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to increase some 70 percent, as the greatest known risk factor of Alzheimer’s is age. About 4.5 million people are affected today and it is estimated that this number will increase to 7.7 million by 2030.
What’s important to understand, though, is that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging, and there are ways to reduce your chances of getting the disease. The key to the treatment of Alzheimer's is to make sure you never get it. If you are interested in learning how to avoid this disease, please read How to Avoid the Coming Alzheimer’s Epidemic.
Related Articles:
Mental Stimulation Keeps Alzheimer’s Away Early Alzheimer's Treatment Can Cut Costs Drugs Fail to Slow Alzheimer's You Don’t Have to Get Alzheimer's Alzheimer's Epidemic Expected -- What Can You do to Prevent It? Low Folate Levels Cell Phones 'May Trigger Alzheimer's Disease'
Mental Stimulation Keeps Alzheimer’s Away
Early Alzheimer's Treatment Can Cut Costs
Drugs Fail to Slow Alzheimer's
You Don’t Have to Get Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's Epidemic Expected -- What Can You do to Prevent It?
Low Folate Levels
Cell Phones 'May Trigger Alzheimer's Disease'