Detecting Alzheimer's Early!

Science Daily, reported early detection screening for Alzheimer's Disease
December 1, 2005 — "Building upon a recent discovery that the same Alzheimer's disease process that goes on in the brain also occurs in the eye, researchers have developed a pair of optical tests that can determine the presence of amyloid beta proteins -- found in all Alzheimer's patients -- in the lens of the eye. A device called an interior laser ophthalmoscope can pick up the presence of the amyloid protein."
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NEI Press Release
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
National Eye Institute
For Immediate Release Thursday, January 8, 2009

" The scientists’ technique also may have applications beyond cataract research. Dr. Manuel B. Datiles of the National Eye Institute said that amyloids, the proteins that cause Alzheimer’s, are deposited in the lens of the eye as well as in the brain. With more research, it is possible that this probe could give an early warning of the development of Alzheimer’s, enabling early intervention."
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SENIOR JOURNAL.COM - Senior Citizens Information and News

Earliest Detection of Alzheimer's May Be Found in the Eye

"Previously, Goldstein and his colleagues had discovered evidence that Alzheimer’s was not just a brain disease, but rather a “systemic” one that manifests itself in the lens of the eye. The amyloid beta proteins that form plaques in the brain and impair cognitive function also build up near the edge of the lens, ultimately forming an unusual “supranuclear” cataract that is very different from more familiar, age-related cataracts."
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The Pleasure of Pets:  Roles for Animals in Alzheimer's

For more disease related information...

"ALZHEIMER'S Inflammation may play a role, but don't use current (2001) NSAIDs --- side effects of long-term use make risks outweigh benefits. Instead try using lots of turmeric in cooking (SN 12/8/01 p.362; Alt. 12/02 p.141). B12 levels tend to be low, so B12 deficiency could be a causative factor. Various other B vitamins may help (SN 3/2/02, p.141; SN 8/28/04. p.142). The latter SN article cites a niacin (RDA 35-45mg) study of over 65 people: those consuming about 14mg/day experienced more mental decline and were 3 times as likely to develop Alzheimer's as those consuming 17+mg/day (cited J. Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psych. 8/04). Moderate drinking (1-3 drinks/day) appears to reduce risk of dementia in older people (SN 2/2/02 p.67). In a small study, alpha-lipoic acid stabilized the disease (Alt. 3/02 p.72). A mouse study indicates that the omega-3 oil DHA may help (SN 9/4/04 p.166). Exercise (even just walking) helps keep the mind sharp (J. Amer. Med. Assn. 9/22/04)."

Excellent information on Diseases/Inflammation and more!

SINUSITIS and upper repriratory infections may be reduced by humming regularly (Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2002; 166(2) p.131 cited in Alt. 12/02 p.142).

OBESITY With age, body tends to use fat less. Solution: eat smaller meals and exercise to retain fat-burning muscle (SN 11/1/97 p.283). There are other safe methods besides exercise for increasing metabolism

CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) is found in beef, lamb, turkey and dairy products; however animals which are not range-fed have less than half the CLA of animals that are. Supplements are available.

Omega-3 fatty acids.

Green tea appears to work.

The thyroid may be underactive, perhaps due to iodine deficiency

URINARY TRACT INFECTION Blueberries and cranberries help prevent it probably by making it harder for E. coli to adhere to walls.

ATHEROSCLEROSIS See cardiovascular and cholesterol. Inflammation may cause rupture of plaque and lead to a heart attack. A small study showed that 8 oz. of pure pomegranate juice daily greatly reduced carotid artery thickness . It also reduced systolic pressure and oxidized cholesterol (Alt 5/05 p.183).