The use of supplements can prolong and restore brain activity in humans. Two important factors in brain degeneration are free radical damage and mitochondrial decline, with resulting energy failure. Mitochondria in cells generate about 90% of a cells energy by way of a chain of chemical reactions called the citric acid cycle and mitochondria are subject to free radical damage because of the large amounts of oxygen consumed in energy production.
The diseases in which brain degeneration plays a part and for which treatment holds promise include Alzheimer’s disease, Down’s syndrome, stroke and cerebrovascular accidents, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Friedreich’s Ataxia, and normal aging.
The products listed that aid in repair of brain degeneration and are discussed by Dr. Kidd include the following: Iron (in deficiency), Zinc, Copper, B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, Biotin, Vitamin K, Glycine, DHA, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Alpha lipoic acid, CoQ-10, NADH, acetyl-L-carnitine, glycerylphosphorylcholine (GPC) and phosphatidylserine (PS.)
Oxygen is necessary for energy production in cells, oxygen also can cause free radical damage in cells. This can be partially overcome by endogenous antioxidants, but we rely partly on antioxidants from our diets. Mitochondria produce most of the free radicals in cells.
The combination of the following protects the brain cells, boost the brain’s energy, and supports brain regeneration: Vit. E, Alpha lipoic acid, CoQ-10, acetyl-L-carnitine, and NADH.
Acetyl-L-carnitine, GPC, and PS all enhance receptors for nerve growth factor and deserve more study.
CONCLUSION: The above products have been found to be of benefit in the treatment of neurodegeneration and in the treatment of specific diseases of the nervous system.
PMID: 16366737.
Summary #025.