Optimize mitochondrial function
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Goal: Optimize mitochondrial function
Approach: Look into supplementing with CoQ or ubiquinol, a-lipoic acid, PQQ, NAC, ALCAR, Se, Zn, resveratrol, ascorbate, thiamine.
Mitochondria are the organelles in your cells that generate energy.
There are several supplements that can improve mitochondrial activity. Please do talk to your doctor before starting new supplements to make sure you will reduce the chances of interactions with other medicine or supplements you might be taking. We always recommend starting with a low dose to see how it affects you and increasing the dose if needed.
- CoQ Coenzyme Q10 is a molecule in the mitochondria that is essential to producing energy. Ubiquinol is its electron-rich (reduced) form that is better absorbed.
- a-lipoic acid can reduce the formation of Alzheimer's disease plaques and increase the production of acetylcholine, an important signaling molecule that is impaired in Alzheimer's disease.
- PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) prevents cognitive deficit caused by oxidative stress in rats.
- NAC (N-acetylcysteine) up to 400-500mg (to increase glutathione cellular protection) blocks oxidative damage in Alzheimer's.
- Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR), up to 500mg per day.
- Alzheimer's patients with low Se (Selenium) in their blood have been found to have more problems with cognitive function.
- Blood brain barrier dysfunction accelerates the rate of degeneration in Alzheimer's by impairing the ability of the brain to concentrate ascorbate (Vitamin C) and other nutrients with neuroprotective properties.
- Thiamine up to 2.5mg. Oral thiamine trials have been shown to improve the cognitive function of patients with AD. See Thiamine at this Wiki for a more in-depth introduction to the literature.
References
- The Disease Delusion: Conquering the Causes of Illness for a Healthier, Longer and Happier Life
- Improving and Retaining Memory Function Feb 15, 2015
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