As the expression goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That could very well pertain to the latest influx of businesses offering alternative supplements, dietary programs, and herbal concoctions in an effort to treat, or at the very least reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer’s Association aims to alert us, however, to carefully look at treatment options for a senior loved one with dementia – and always have the doctor’s authorization prior to trying anything new.
A number of the latest trends in managing the condition, that are outside of the FDA’s research and approval process, and are also predicated on individual testimony as opposed to fact-based science, include ginkgo biloba, coral calcium, coconut oil, huperzine A and CoQ10 – an antioxidant produced naturally but in declining amounts as we get older. In particular, the Alzheimer’s Association reports their concerns about these and other well-known alternative treatments:
- Ginkgo biloba: Clinical trials of thousands of adults over age 75 have indicated no statistical difference between those receiving this plant extract and people taking a placebo.
- Coral calcium: Coral calcium has been shown to deliver no significant health benefits, and those promoting and distributing it as an end to Alzheimer’s are currently under investigation with formal complaints filed by both the FTC and FDA.
- Coconut oil: Promises are that coconut oil may provide an alternate source of energy to brain cells in place of reduced glucose levels in those with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association cautions that while there may be advantages, no clinical testing or scientific evidence is available.
- Huperzine A: Used as a conventional Chinese recovery product, huperzine A is a moss extract available as an unregulated dietary supplement. A clinical trial was performed by the Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study that demonstrated no benefit to huperzine A in Alzheimer’s patients, and that serious side effects may result when taken in combination with other Alzheimer’s treatments.
- CoQ10: While CoQ10 is a naturally-occurring antioxidant in the human body, this has not been investigated for its usefulness in managing Alzheimer’s disease, and also could result in problems for the older adult if ingested in high doses.
The bottom line? Speak with your senior loved one’s physician about treatment options for Alzheimer’s and follow their instructions carefully. For more information about effective and safe Alzheimer’s care, available within the comfort of home, get in touch with Independence-4-Seniors Home Care’s expert dementia care team. Our Hinsdale dementia care staff are professionally trained and knowledgeable in highly trained, patient and compassionate Alzheimer’s care, allowing seniors to maintain the best possible quality of life, safety, independence and respect. Call us at (630) 323-4665 or contact us online for a complimentary in-home assessment to learn more.