Hi Everyone,
WOW is there a lot to read and take in here! I hope I'm not overstepping by introducing myself before reading everything and fully digesting everything that's on this wonderful resource. I stumbled upon the fact that I'm 4/4 by the magic of 23andme + promethease a few days ago, and I have to admit, I don't know if I should be terrified, sad, hopeful, or what. I'm 31 and just lost my grandmother who had advanced dementia in the beginning of February. I guess my main concern right now is - how serious should I be taking this?? I started some preventive measures years ago when we saw the change in my grandmother's health, but is this something I need to approach a doctor about?
I'm still making my way through a lot of the primer, but wanted to stop by and say hello!
Hello! I'm new!
Re: Hello! I'm new!
Hi, Im new also. Can't answer your question just thought I would say hi. I feel pretty much the same way, so thought maybe someone saying hello back might help. If you found this forum I assume you have read about as much as I have and will say yes I am going to a Dr, If I can find one that knows what it is.
Re: Hello! I'm new!
Hi to both of you. We're glad you're here.
The reality is that many doctors don't know what to do with ApoE4, so it's best to read the primer, and work with a doctor on the issues that have relevance to you, or things that run in your family. For example, right now I'm concentrating on making my labs related to insulin resistance the best I can, because my dad, who had Alzheimer's, also had diabetes.
Alli, at 31, you have time on your side. So concentrate on living your healthiest life starting now. And follow up with the forum if you have questions after reading the primer.
The reality is that many doctors don't know what to do with ApoE4, so it's best to read the primer, and work with a doctor on the issues that have relevance to you, or things that run in your family. For example, right now I'm concentrating on making my labs related to insulin resistance the best I can, because my dad, who had Alzheimer's, also had diabetes.
Alli, at 31, you have time on your side. So concentrate on living your healthiest life starting now. And follow up with the forum if you have questions after reading the primer.
Re: Hello! I'm new!
Hi Alli...so glad you took a moment to say hi and introduce yourself. The Primer is the place to start and keep referring back to (we all do!). Please don't forget at this point that you're young and have time on your side. My advice: relax, enjoy life, and continue integrating good lifestyle choices along the way; changes that you can live with.
Looking forward to hearing more about you as you dive in. When you do have questions, don't hesitate to ask; we have a wonderful, supportive community here!
Looking forward to hearing more about you as you dive in. When you do have questions, don't hesitate to ask; we have a wonderful, supportive community here!
Re: Hello! I'm new!
Thanks everyone! I'll continue to read and will come back with questions. I'm excited to become a part of this community!
Re: Hello! I'm new!
Welcome! What a hard thing to learn, I know, we've all been there! It's terrifying at first, but in a few months you'll feel confident about your future and better healthwise than ever. You will gradually adopt a very healthful lifestyle. And you are way ahead of the game by starting so early!! Most doctors I've found to be unfamiliar with this. But as more people learn their status due to all this new DNA testing, doctors will become more knowledgeable, I'm sure (especially doctors who find they have the gene themselves). This forum is one of the best places to find help really, to me. I like Bredesen's protocol, too, which you can find at http:/www.drbredesen.com. His lifestyle/supplement protocol has been quite effective. There are no prescription meds that have really been very effective, so the doctors mainly can help by checking cholesterol, all the other labs etc, like A1c and inflammation markers. Also, occasionally getting a coronary calcium scan done once you're older to check for arterial plaque. Doctors can also supply necessary hormones for us older folk, such as thyroid meds if needed, as well as estrogen, progesterone etc. But other than that, it is mainly diet, exercise, sleep, some supplements that will keep our apoe4 genes from hurting us!
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