John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

The UK's Daily Mail recently published an editorial that established links between B vitamins and the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The story was based on recent research, confirming the close relationship between the long-term intake of three B vitamins and the risk of developing Alzheimer's. This was based on a UK Government study (OIPTIMA) at Oxford University; and concluded that there is a clear link between high levels of a dangerous compound, called homocysteine, and elevated risk of AD. The B vitamins B6, folate and B12 have many functions and play an active role in protein metabolism. One of their roles is to breakdown harmful homocysteine to harmless acetylcholine. The study confirmed that people with AD had high levels of homocysteine and low levels of these three B vitamins.
My view has always been that supplementation of these three B vitamins is essential. These should be in any good multi-vitamin supplement. However, it is important to see brain health with a much wider perspective; and ensure that both diets and supplements protect and nourish brain cells.
Vitamin D is known to have a protective role in brain function and low levels have been linked to dementia, and many mental health issues including depression and seasonal affective disorder. Antioxidants, especially the OPC's, can cross the blood brain barrier to protect brain cells. The Omega 3 DHA in fish oil is one of the brain's preferred fats and is necessary for good nerve function. For brain health you should base everything on an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in good fats and lots of vegetables. With supplements, your daily multi should have a B complex and the antioxidants needed to protect brain cells. Combine this with vitamin D and a good Omega 3 and you will be doing a lot to protect against AD and other mental health issues. Give me a call if you need more information. To join my weekly newsletter, go to: www.johnarts.co.nz and visit: www.abundant.co.nz
John Arts is a Nutritional Therapist and founder of Abundant Health.
Contact John on 0800 423 559. To read more go to: www.sunlive.co.nz