Effective dietary supplements for the prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain

Effective dietary supplements for the prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain: review and prospects

Degenerative diseases of the brain, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other forms of dementia, are a serious healthcare problem around the world. As the population is aging, the risk of developing these conditions increases, which emphasizes the importance of preventive measures. Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent these diseases, scientific studies show that certain biologically active additives (dietary supplements) can play an important role in maintaining cognitive health and slowing down the progression of neurodegenerative processes. This article is a comprehensive review of effective dietary supplements used to prevent degenerative diseases of the brain, considers their mechanisms of action, scientific evidence, as well as the prospects for their application.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids:

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PNZHK), especially eicosapstranthenoic acid (EPC) and daily-zahexaenoic acid (DGC), are essential components of cell membranes, especially in the brain. They play a critical role in neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity and inflammatory processes.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Anti -inflammatory action: Omega-3 PNZHK reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (for example, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and increase the synthesis of anti-inflammatory mediators (for example, resolvines, protectines). Chronic inflammation in the brain is an important factor contributing to neurodegeneration.
  • Improving the structure and function of cell membranes: DGC is the main structural component of neurons membranes, ensuring their flexibility and fluidity, which is necessary for the effective transmission of signals.
  • Protection against oxidative stress: Omega-3 PNZHK contribute to the activation of transcription factors, such as NRF2, which regulates the expression of antioxidant enzymes.
  • Reducing the level of amyloid and tau-prototin: Some studies show that omega-3 PNZHK can contribute to the clearence of amyloid β (Aβ) and reduce the phosphorylation of tau-prothein, key signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Improving cerebral blood flow: Omega-3 PNZHK has a vasodilating effect, contributing to an increase in blood flow in the brain and providing neurons with the necessary nutrients and oxygen.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Numerous epidemiological studies have shown the relationship between the high consumption of omega-3 PNSK and a reduced risk of cognitive reduction and dementia.
  • Clinical trials using Omega-3 additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions in people with a slight cognitive impairment (MCI) or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, while others did not reveal a significant effect. Probably, the effectiveness of omega-3 PNSK depends on the age, genetic predisposition and stage of the disease.
  • The meta-analyzes show that the use of omega-3 PNZHK can be more effective in the prevention of cognitive decline than in the treatment of already developed dementia.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of DHC and EPK is from 1 to 3 grams.
  • The preferred sources of Omega-3 PNZHK: fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and additives of fish oil or croil oil.
  • It is important to choose additives with a high content of DGC and EPC and a low content of pollutants (for example, mercury).

2. Curcumin:

Kurkumin is a polyphenol contained in Kurcuma Longa, spices widely used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. It has powerful antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Antioxidant action: Kurkumin neutralizes free radicals and increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxidsmouth (SOD), catalase and glutathioneperoxidase.
  • Anti -inflammatory action: Kurkumin inhibits the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COO-2) and lipoxygenase (log), and reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
  • Inhibiting aggregation of Aβ and Tau Protein: Kurkumin can be associated with Aβ and Tau Protein, preventing their aggregation and formation of plaques and balls.
  • Increase in the level of the neurotrophic factor of the brain (BDNF): BDNF plays an important role in the survival of neurons, synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions. Kurkumin can stimulate BDNF production in the brain.
  • Helating of metals: Kurkumin can connect metals, such as iron and copper, which can contribute to oxidative stress and the formation of Aux.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Animal studies have shown that curcumin can improve cognitive functions, reduce the level of Aβ and Tau Protein in the brain and protect neurons from damage.
  • Clinical trials using barkumin additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions and moods in the elderly with MCI or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, while others did not reveal a significant effect.
  • The problem is the low bioavailability of turcumin. Kurkumin is poorly absorbed in the intestines and quickly metabolized in the liver.

• Recommendations for use:

  • To increase the bioavailability of curcumin, it is recommended to use additives containing pipin (black pepper extract), phospholipids or liposomal forms of turmeric.
  • The recommended daily dose of curcumin varies from 500 to 2000 mg.
  • Turmeric can be added to food as a seasoning.

3. Resveratrol:

Resveratrol is a polyphenol contained in red grapes, red wine, berries and peanuts. It has antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Activation of sirtuins: Resveratrol activates sirtuins, a family of proteins, which play an important role in the regulation of aging, metabolism and stress cell protection. Activation of sirtuins can improve cognitive functions and slow down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Antioxidant action: Resveratrol neutralizes free radicals and increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes.
  • Anti -inflammatory action: Resveratrol inhibits the activity of pro -inflammatory enzymes and reduces the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines.
  • Improving cerebral blood flow: Resveratrol has a vasodilative effect, contributing to an increase in blood flow in the brain.
  • Aβ and Tau Protein Protection: Resveratrol can reduce the level of Aβ and Tau Protein in the brain and protect neurons from their toxic effects.
  • BDNF level increase: Resveratrol can stimulate BDNF production in the brain.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Animal studies have shown that resveratrol can improve cognitive functions, reduce the level of Aβ and Tau-Protein in the brain and protect neurons from damage.
  • Clinical trials using resveratrol additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions and moods in the elderly with MCI or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, while others did not reveal a significant effect.
  • The bioavailability of resveratrol is also a problem.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of resveratrol varies from 150 to 500 mg.
  • Resveratrol can be obtained from red grapes, red wine, berries and peanuts, as well as from additives.

4. Coenzim Q10 (COQ10):

Coenzym Q10 (COQ10) is a fat -soluble antioxidant that plays an important role in the production of energy in cells (especially in mitochondria). It also protects cells from oxidative stress.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Antioxidant action: COQ10 neutralizes free radicals and protects lipids, proteins and DNA from oxidative damage.
  • Improving the function of mitochondria: COQ10 is a necessary component of the electronic transport circuit in the mitochondria where the ATP (the main source of energy for cells) occurs. Improving the function of mitochondria can increase the energy of neurons and protect them from damage.
  • Anti -inflammatory action: COQ10 can reduce the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines.
  • Protection against exteitotoxicity: COQ10 can protect neurons from damage caused by excessive stimulation of glutamate (exisiteotoxicity).

• Scientific evidence:

  • Animal studies have shown that COQ10 can improve cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage with neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Clinical tests using COQ10 additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions and motor skills in patients with Parkinson’s disease, while others did not reveal a significant effect.
  • COQ10 can be useful in case of COQ10 deficiency associated with taking statins (drugs that reduce cholesterol).

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of COQ10 varies from 100 to 600 mg.
  • To increase bioavailability, it is recommended to take COQ10 in the form of Kilikhinol (the restored form COQ10).
  • COQ10 can be obtained from meat, fish, nuts and seeds, as well as from additives.

5. Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the regulation of calcium metabolism, immune function and cell growth. Vitamin D receptors are found in many areas of the brain, which indicates its role in cognitive functions.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Neuroprotective action: Vitamin D can protect neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress, inflammation and exisiteotoxicity.
  • Gene expression regulation: Vitamin D can affect the expression of genes involved in neurotransmissia, synaptic plasticity and survival of neurons.
  • BDNF level increase: Vitamin D can stimulate BDNF production in the brain.
  • Improving the function of the immune system: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of immune function, which can be important for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases associated with chronic inflammation.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Epidemiological studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
  • Clinical tests using vitamin D additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions in people with vitamin D deficiency, while others did not reveal a significant effect.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of vitamin D varies from 600 to 2000 IU (international units).
  • The optimal level of vitamin D in the blood is 30-50 ng/ml.
  • Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, oily fish, egg yolk and enriched products, as well as from additives.

6. B vitamins B:

B12 vitamins, especially vitamin B12, folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B6, play an important role in the metabolism of homocysteine. The increased level of homocysteine ​​in the blood is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Reduced level of homocysteine: B vitamins are involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, turning it into methionine or cysteine. A decrease in homocysteine ​​level can protect neurons from damage.
  • Improving the function of the nervous system: B vitamins are necessary for the normal function of the nervous system, including neurotransmission and myelinization of nerve fibers.
  • Antioxidant action: Some vitamins of group B, such as vitamin B2 (riboflavin), have antioxidant properties.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Epidemiological studies have shown the relationship between deficiency of B vitamins and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
  • Clinical trials using B vitamins have shown conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions in people with a high level of homocysteine, while others did not reveal a significant effect.

• Recommendations for use:

  • Recommended daily doses of B vitamins vary depending on vitamin and age.
  • It is important to consider that some drugs (for example, metformin) can reduce vitamin B12.
  • B vitamins can be obtained from meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes and green leafy vegetables, as well as from additives.

7. The phospatidix (PS):

Phosphatidylserin (PS) is a phospholipid, which is an important component of cell membranes, especially in the brain. He plays a critical role in transmitting signals, synaptic plasticity and survival of neurons.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Improving the structure and function of cell membranes: PS maintains the flexibility and fluidity of cell membranes, which is necessary for effective signal transmission.
  • Support for neurotransmissions: PS is involved in the release of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine and dopamine.
  • Reducing the level of cortisol: PS can reduce the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can negatively affect cognitive functions.
  • Protection from Aβ: PS can protect neurons from the toxic effects of Aβ.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Clinical tests using PS additives showed an improvement in cognitive functions, memory and attention in older people with MCI or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • PS can be especially useful for improving memory and concentration.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of PS varies from 100 to 300 mg.
  • PS can be obtained from soybeans, lecithin and additives.

8. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA):

Alfa-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that is soluble in both water and in fat. It can penetrate the hematoencephalic barrier and protect the brain from oxidative stress.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Antioxidant action: ALA neutralizes free radicals and increases the activity of other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione.
  • Improving the function of mitochondria: ALA can improve the function of mitochondria and increase energy production in cells.
  • Helating of metals: ALA can connect metals, such as iron and copper, which can contribute to oxidative stress and the formation of Aβ.
  • Increasing the level of acetylcholine: ALA can increase the level of acetylcholine, neurotransmitter, which plays an important role in memory and training.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Animal studies have shown that ALA can improve cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage with neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Clinical tests using ALA additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions and a slowdown in Alzheimer’s disease, while others have not revealed a significant effect.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of ALA varies from 300 to 600 mg.
  • ALA can be obtained from meat, animal organs, spinach, broccoli and additives.

9. Ginkgo Biloba:

Ginkgo biloba is an extract of ginkgo leaves, which is traditionally used to improve memory and cognitive functions.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Improving cerebral blood flow: Ginkgo bilobe has a vasodilative effect, contributing to an increase in blood flow in the brain.
  • Antioxidant action: Ginkgo bilobe neutralizes free radicals and protects cells from oxidative stress.
  • Anti -inflammatory action: Ginkgo bilobe can reduce the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines.
  • Protection from Aβ: Ginkgo bilobe can protect neurons from the toxic effects of Aβ.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Clinical trials using ginkgo bilobe additives showed conflicting results. Some studies have shown an improvement in cognitive functions, memory and attention in the elderly with MCI or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, while others did not reveal a significant effect.
  • Ginkgo bilobe can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of ginkgo biloba varies from 120 to 240 mg of standardized extract.

10. BACKA MONNII:

Bacopa Monnieri is an Ayurvedic plant that is traditionally used to improve memory, training and cognitive functions.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Increase in the level of neurotransmitters: Bacopa Monnieri can increase the level of acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonin in the brain.
  • Antioxidant action: Bacopa Monnieri neutralizes free radicals and protects cells from oxidative stress.
  • Improving cerebral blood flow: Bacopa Monnieri can improve blood flow in the brain.
  • An increase in synaptic density: Bacopa Monnieri can increase the number of synapses in the brain, which helps to improve memory and learning.

• Scientific evidence:

  • Clinical trials using Bacopa Monnieri additives showed an improvement in memory, training, attention and cognitive functions in healthy people and in people with MCI.

• Recommendations for use:

  • The recommended daily dose of Bacopa Monnieri varies from 300 to 600 mg of standardized extract.

Prospects for the use of dietary supplements for the prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain:

The use of dietary supplements for the prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain is a promising direction, but requires further research. It is important to consider the following aspects:

• Individual approach: The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on age, genetic predisposition, lifestyle and stage of the disease. An individual approach to the choice of dietary supplements and their dosage is needed.
• Combined approach: The combination of several dietary supplements with different action mechanisms can be more effective than using one dietary supplement.
• Early Prevention: Bad can be more effective with an early beginning of prophylaxis, before the appearance of pronounced symptoms of cognitive decline.
• Healthy lifestyle: Bad should be used in combination with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, physical activity, mental stimulation and sufficient sleep.
• Quality of dietary supplements: It is important to choose a dietary supplement from reliable manufacturers that guarantee the quality and purity of products.
• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take medications.

Conclusion:

Prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain is a difficult task requiring an integrated approach. Bad can play an important role in maintaining cognitive health and slowing down the progression of neurodegenerative processes, but are not a panacea. Further research is necessary to determine the most effective dietary supplements, their optimal dosage and combinations, as well as for the development of individual prevention strategies. A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, physical activity, mental stimulation and sufficient sleep, remains the cornerstone of the prevention of degenerative diseases of the brain.