Serialised in the Daily Mail and featured in a long review article in The Saturday Times, a new book called The Alzheimer’s Solution, written by neurologists Dr Dean Sherzai and Dr Ayesha Sherzai, has generated a huge amount of interest in the British press. Perhaps this is a reflection of our concern in the UK with this disease; many of us being touched by it directly or through friends and loved ones. Dementia is now the leading cause of death in the UK and Alzheimer’s disease is the main form of dementia.
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It is now widely understood that good digestion within the gut is directly linked to brain function and behaviour. Indeed, this is so much so that the gut is often referred to as the ‘second brain’ and is revolutionising our understanding of the links between digestion, mood, health and even the way we think.
Ayurvedic medicine and philosophy has been around for over 3000 years and herbs have been part of this therapy for centuries. Herbs such as Ashwagandha and Bacopa Monnieri have been a robust part of this Ayurvedic medicine for this time and are traditionally used as a Rasayana (tonic) for their wide-ranging health benefits. Rasayana is described as an herbal or metallic preparation that promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health and expands happiness.
In this week’s article, we provide a roundup of some of the most recent health and nutrition related articles in the news, five items comprising:
- Plant-based power: Med-style diet effective in tackling acid reflux
- Nutrition has benefits for brain network organization
- Moving every half hour could help limit effects of sedentary lifestyle, says study
- Vitamin D levels may predict MS risk
- Could artificial sweeteners raise diabetes risk?
Over the years there have been conflicting reports on the nutritional benefits of organically farmed produce; with some studies showing little difference in nutrient content between organic and conventional farming. However, there is an increasing amount of evidence in favour of organic foods having a higher content of antioxidants, certain vitamins/minerals and omega-3 fatty acids.
High fat, ketogenic diets are being used therapeutically for a number of health conditions including Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, cancer and obesity. Low in carbohydrate and high in fat – a ketogenic diet might sound like a new idea, but in fact it was the way our ancestors predominantly ate and some would argue it is how we are designed to eat. Ketosis is where the body burns ketones – derived from fats. For most people, glucose from carbohydrates is the main energy or fuel source for the body.