Dietary Supplement Could Potentially Reverse Effects of Neurodegenerative Diseases
A dietary supplement was found to reverse brain cell loss and prevent cognitive decline in mice.
Recent studies suggest that a dietary supplement containing 30 vitamins and minerals can prevent, and possibly reverse, massive brain cell loss.
"The findings are dramatic," said study lead author Jennifer Lemon, PhD. "Our hope is that this supplement could offset some very serious illnesses and ultimately improve quality of life."
Researchers in the study, published by Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis, believe the supplement could eventually treat various neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The supplement contains ingredients like vitamins B, C, D, folic acid, green tea extract, cod liver oil, and various other nutraceuticals. The researchers published multiple studies over the past 10 years that have shown the benefits of this supplement in mice.
In the current study, researchers used mice models lost more than half of their brain cells, representing the human equivalent of Alzheimer’s disease, according to the study. The mice were given the supplement daily for several months and researchers found it eliminated brain cell loss and stopped cognitive decline.
"The research suggests that there is tremendous potential with this supplement to help people who are suffering from some catastrophic neurological diseases," Dr Lemon said. "We know this because mice experience the same basic cell mechanisms that contribute to neurodegeneration that humans do. All species, in fact. There is a commonality among us all."
Researchers also found that mice taking the supplement has enhanced vision and smell as well as improvements in balance and motor skills. They plan to test this supplement in humans with neurodegenerative diseases within the next 2 years, the study concluded.
