A new study’s result has been released which talks about a natural remedy to Alzheimer’s disease and has caused a noteworthy impact. This naturally occurring substance present in pomegranates can improve memory and aid in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that fundamentally affects memory. It is the most common cause of dementia in old age.
The disease essentially leads to the death of brain cells which in due course leads to a decline In cognitive function.
The Key symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory loss, difficulty with language, disorientation, mood swings, changes in behavior Etcetera. As the disease reaches its final stages, it might even be difficult for the patients to continue day-to-day activities without the help of full-time caretakers
The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully comprehended by the researchers, but it is believed that it could be a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatments can manage symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life. Research is ongoing to find more effective treatments and ultimately a cure.
Urolithin A: The Key Compound in Pomegranates
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by symptoms such as forgetfulness, difficulty finding words, and confusion about time and place, and affects millions worldwide. Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that pomegranates might hold a key to palliating these symptoms.
The study conducted on mice with Alzheimer’s disease revealed that urolithin A can alleviate memory problems and other problems caused by dementia. This compound is largely found in pomegranates
“This is encouraging news for dementia patients, a condition notoriously difficult to treat,” said Vilhelm Bohr, an Affiliate Professor at the University’s Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine. “While the study was performed on mice, the findings are promising and suggest potential benefits for humans.”
Currently, the team is planning clinical trials on humans to further investigate these effects.
Potential Preventative Benefits of Urolithin A in Alzheimer’s Treatment
Previously, the researchers identified a molecule, nicotinamide riboside (a form of NAD supplement), as crucial in combating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. This molecule aids in the removal of damaged mitochondria from the brain, a process essential for maintaining brain health.
“Mitochondrial dysfunction, or mitophagy, is a common issue in neurodegenerative diseases,” Bohr explained. “This means the brain struggles to eliminate weak mitochondria, which then accumulate and impair brain function. Stimulating mitophagy to clear out these damaged mitochondria can yield significant positive outcomes.”
The new study shows that urolithin A is just as effective as NAD supplements in clearing out weak mitochondria from the brain. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme vital for metabolism.
However, the researchers have yet to determine the precise amount of urolithin A required to improve memory and alleviate symptoms in humans.
“We cannot yet specify the dosage needed, but it’s likely more than consuming a single pomegranate daily,” Bohr noted.
He also expressed hope that urolithin A could be used preventatively without significant side effects.
“Thus far, NAD supplementation has shown no serious side effects. Our understanding of urolithin A is more limited, but clinical trials have shown it to be effective in treating muscular diseases,” Bohr added.
This great breakthrough in science will help several families to help their loved ones. We hope the clinical trials will be successful so that the help required is provided.
As we all are advised, prevention is always better than cure. The impacts of unhealthy habits might not directly affect the prime ages. But as we get older, the effects of unhealthy eating and smoking could eventually be the cause of a disease like Alzheimer’s. It is important to keep our bodies physically fit and take care of them by engaging in yoga and other activities.
