I have a 75 yo patient who has early symptoms of dementia. His brain MRI was normal as was his neuro exam, with exception of pronounced memory deficits… He is forgetful and repeats the same questions without remembering asking them. He has had consistently elevated levels of HbA1C, usually hovering around 7.5. He also was a Plummer and I suspect he has had multiple chemical and heavy metal exposure. He is seeing a neurologist who has him on NAC and Cerefolin.
I strongly suggested diet changes that would lower his HbA1C and incorporates lots of antioxidants (We’ll see how that change goes… his wife cooks for him and didn’t seem motivated to change her cooking). I also getting plenty of sleep and exercise. Additionally,
I suggested the following supplements:
- Melatonin
- Vitamin E: 1000 IU bid with vitamin C: 1000 mg bid
- Bocopa monnieri: 300-450 mg /day
- Gingkgo: 240 mg 2-3x/d with 24% gingko flavoglycinides
Q&A:
- If heavy metal toxicity was a part of this, would chelating/detoxing make any change at this point?
A: My opinion – Age over 70 I prefer to stabilize the system and minimize effects rather than do a lot of active chelating. That includes PTC, ALA, Nutrients and lots of antioxidant support.
- If his blood sugar stabilized, do you think his cognitive function could improve or is the damage already done?
A: Yes it can but it may take some time… Kind of like peripheral neuropathy – after the insult it takes 6-12 mo to heal. Same with the brain
- What do you think of my suggestions above? Is there anything you would add based on your experience?
A: Love your treatment plan: I’d add Thorne phosphatidylcholine 1 BID, ALA 300-600 mg QD and either a MVM with full trace minerals or at least a trace mineral complex. Also – is he getting any Magnesium?
A: Re-assess him at least monthly, knowing that the effects of the above may be subtle and take 3-6 months to fully set in.