Tag Archive for: alzheimer’s

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Young woman losing parts of head as symbol of decreased mind function.

Addressing the Fear of Cognitive Decline & How to Be Proactive

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Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. For most people, the subject of Alzheimer’s brings fear and trepidation. Why? Because the thought of deteriorating brain function and memory loss is frightening. Unfortunately, current medical treatments are inadequate, dealing only with its end result.

Alzheimer’s is characterized by the destruction of synapses in the neurons, the nerve cells in the brain, by amyloid plaques. In addition, “tangles” form in the cells leading to loss of brain function. This leads to progressive loss of memory and behavioral problems like aggression, hallucinations, and delusions, as well as deterioration of activities of daily living. This is heartbreaking for patients and their families. And, despite years of ongoing research, there are still many unanswered questions about what causes Alzheimer’s disease.

Let’s explore some of the known risks associated with dementia and learn how to lower those risks.

Type 3 Diabetes

You may not have heard the term “type 3 diabetes” as another name for Alzheimer’s Dementia. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, also called insulin resistance, are both strongly linked to the development of Alzheimer’s dementia. This could actually be good news because it means this is a preventable risk factor.

Why has the term Type 3 diabetes been coined?  Let’s start by discussing sugar, which in large quantities is a poison. The body is not designed to handle more than 15-20 grams per day, yet a soda has at least 40 grams and the average American consumes 82 grams per day.

Excess sugar causes an outpouring of insulin from the pancreas and over time causes the cells in the body – including the brain – to become resistant to insulin. This leads to chronically elevated blood sugar which causes Advanced Glycation End products or AGEs to be produced. These AGEs then attack the eyes, kidneys, peripheral nerves, and the brain!

Environmental factors

Heavy metals, such as lead in pollution and mercury in dental amalgams, and large fish, like tuna, swordfish, and shark increase the risk of dementia. In the 1800s the term “mad as a hatter” came about because hat makers were using a form of mercury to make fur hats and it destroyed brain cells.

Living or working in a water-damaged building leads to the growth of toxic mold, which poisons the nervous system.

Studies also show that living near major highways is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

Long COVID

Recent research suggests that long COVID may share biological pathways with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have found that some individuals with long COVID show elevated levels of Alzheimer’s-related biomarkers—such as tau proteins—as well as signs of persistent neuroinflammation, structural brain changes, and cognitive impairment. While researchers are still investigating whether COVID-19 directly increases Alzheimer’s risk, these findings suggest the virus may contribute to neurological changes that resemble or potentially accelerate processes involved in neurodegeneration.

Other causes of dementia include:

  • Recurrent traumatic brain injury (concussions)
  • Infections like Lyme disease and syphilis
  • Excess alcohol and drugs
  • Prolonged general anesthesia
  • Sleep apnea
  • There are several genes that predispose to Alzheimer’s such as the ApoE4. However, just because we have a gene does not mean it will be expressed. Every time we eat, exercise, sleep, meditate, communicate, create something, play, learn, and love, we are turning genes on and off.

Questions? Give Us a Call!

703-532-4892 x2

The good news is the brain can actually grow and change in a positive way, even as we get older.

Be proactive in reducing your risk of dementia with these strategies:

Lifestyle strategies can promote neurogenesis (new brain cells) and neuroplasticity (changes in the brain and its pathways). These strategies involve a substance called BDNF or brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which promotes brain cell growth and connectivity as demonstrated on MRI scans. In fact, the hippocampus, which is involved in emotional memory, gets larger the more BDNF is available. A large part of the lifestyle strategy involves modifying the diet to lower unhealthful carbs and increase healthful fats thus lowering the risk of diabetes.

  1. Reduce (non-vegetable) carbohydrate consumption.
    Sugars/artificial sweeteners and grains can cause inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, or “leaky gut”. An inflamed gut causes an inflamed brain and reduces the size of the hippocampus. Functional testing looking at stool, urine, and breath can determine if your gut is leaky. Replace nutrients lost from a leaky gut or poor diets like B12, folate, B6, magnesium, and iron.
  2. Increase healthy fat consumption.
    Increase your omega-3 fat intake and reduce the consumption of damaging omega-6 fats (like processed vegetable oils) in order to balance your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. Omega-3 from fish sources shows a lower risk of cognitive impairment.
  3. Add prebiotics & probiotics to your diet.
    Prebiotic fiber nurtures gut bacteria and the hippocampus. Probiotic supplementation, which enhances the healthy bacteria in the gut, decreases the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein, increases the antioxidant  glutathione, and improves mental status as measured by the Mini Mental Status Exam
  4. Improve your sleep habits.
    Work on getting at least 7-8 hours of solid sleep. If sleep is poor, rule out sleep apnea. A 2020 study published in the journal Sleep confirms that people who have obstructive sleep apnea – or intermittent interruptions in breathing – in their middle ages are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease. If you’re not sure if you have sleep apnea, but you find yourself exhausted during the day, take this short quiz as the first step towards diagnosis.
  5. Exercise!
    Physical activity produces biochemical changes, increasing BDNF, that strengthen and renew not only your body but also your brain – particularly the hippocampus, the area associated with memory and learning. This is especially important for carriers of the ApoE4 gene. A good exercise regimen includes aerobic and resistance training at least 3-4 times per week for 30-45 minutes.
  6. Try Niagen+ IV Therapy to boost NAD+ levels.
    Sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent enzymes, have shown to benefit brain health by acting on amyloid plaques, repairing DNA, lowering inflammation, and promoting neuronal function, which in turn can prevent or delay the onset of mild cognitive decline. Click here to learn how Niagen+ IVs help boost NAD+ levels.
  7. Go Keto.
    The ketogenic diet. is linked to an increase in BNDF, which causes the hippocampus to get bigger (better memory). This involves cutting down on carbohydrates which reduces insulin resistance (diabetes) and increasing good fats like avocado, olive oil, MCT (medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil), and intermittent fasting 12-14 hours between dinner and breakfast so that the body breaks down fats and produces ketones. Note: The Ketogenic diet is not for everyone, ask your physician before starting any specialized diet.
  8. Eliminate toxins.
    Consider getting tested for heavy metal and toxic mold exposure and work with your doctor to eliminate them.
  9. Check your hormone levels.
    Balance hormones, such as thyroid, cortisol, sex hormones, and Vitamin D (which is actually a hormone).
  10. Find out whether you are insulin resistant.
    Get a HgA1C test and a fasting insulin test. Eliminating the risk of Type 2 diabetes (insulin resistance) can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia (Type-3 Diabetes).
  11. Remember to take time to slow down, be mindful (meditation and yoga) spend time with loved ones, and take time to laugh and have fun. This is medicine for our minds.

Lisa Lilienfield, MD

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

The Kaplan Center is now expanding into Alzheimer's and Cognitive Care

Elevating Our Legacy of Care: Expanding into Alzheimer’s & Cognitive Health Care

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For four decades, the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine has cared for patients with complex, chronic illnesses that often leave people searching for answers. As we mark more than 40 years of clinical experience, we are expanding our focus to formally include Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline as a core area of care.

Under the leadership of Dr. Gary Kaplan, our clinic has long recognized that chronic illness is rarely isolated to one organ system. Conditions such as autoimmune disease, chronic infections, inflammatory disorders, and metabolic dysfunction all share common biological threads:

  • immune dysregulation
  • chronic inflammation
  • toxin burden
  • vascular compromise
  • impaired cellular repair

More research is showing that these same mechanisms are deeply involved in Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive decline.

In other words, brain health is not separate from systemic health. It is connected to it.

Why Alzheimer’s Care Is a Natural Evolution for Our Clinic

For over 40 years, we have helped patients address root causes of complex illness, asking not only “What is the diagnosis?” but “Why is this happening in this person?” That same question is essential in Alzheimer’s care.

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the buildup of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, which disrupt neuronal communication and lead to progressive cognitive decline. But we now understand that these changes do not occur in isolation. Chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, vascular dysfunction, immune imbalance, environmental toxin exposure, and even persistent infections can all contribute to neurodegeneration.

These are the very systems our clinic has been evaluating and treating for decades.

As our patient population ages — and as more families seek proactive approaches to preserve cognition — formally integrating Alzheimer’s care into our services is both timely and aligned with our mission. We are not entering the cognitive health space as newcomers; rather, we are applying decades of experience in complex, chronic disease management to one of the most urgent health challenges of our time.

A Comprehensive, Integrative Approach to Cognitive Decline

Our approach to Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline begins with advanced diagnostics. Early detection is critical, as pathological changes can begin years—even decades—before noticeable memory loss. Through digital cognitive testing, genetic analysis, metabolic and inflammatory markers, and advanced imaging when appropriate, we work to identify both risk and progression as early as possible.

From there, care is personalized.

We evaluate and address metabolic health, including insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk factors. We assess inflammatory markers and immune function. We consider environmental exposures, toxin burden, and nutritional status. Sleep quality, stress levels, and physical activity are also examined, as each plays a critical role in brain resilience.

We incorporate advanced therapies such as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), a procedure designed to remove inflammatory mediators and harmful circulating factors from the bloodstream. By reducing systemic inflammation and altering the biological environment that affects the brain, TPE represents an innovative strategy that aligns with our root-cause philosophy. We are also the first outpatient clinic in the area to offer this advanced treatment for Alzheimer’s and general longevity.

We also stay engaged with emerging biologic treatments and expanded-access therapies targeting proteins implicated in neurodegeneration, ensuring our patients have access to cutting-edge options when clinically appropriate.

Importantly, our care does not focus solely on disease modification. We also prioritize quality of life: supporting cognitive function, maintaining independence, and equipping families with education and guidance as they navigate the challenges of memory loss.

Heritage and Innovation

As we celebrate over 40 years of care, this expansion into Alzheimer’s treatment reflects both our heritage and our evolution. Since our founding in 1985, we have sought to remain ahead of the curve. We adopt evidence-based innovations while preserving the thoughtful, individualized care that defines integrative medicine.

Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline are not isolated neurologic events. They are deeply intertwined with the same systemic imbalances we have been treating for decades. By formally adding this condition to our core focus, we are acknowledging what science increasingly confirms: longevity, cognitive vitality, and chronic disease management are inseparable.

For our patients and their families, this means having a team that understands complex illness, appreciates the interconnectedness of the body’s systems to give you the best care possible.

Caring for the brain is not a new direction for us—it is the next chapter in our long-standing commitment to comprehensive and forward-thinking care.

If you are interested in Alzheimer’s diagnostics or treatment, please visit our Alzheimer’s webpage or call us at (703)532-4892.

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange for Healing and Longevity: Dr. Gary Shares Insights on Fox5

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Dr. Gary sits down with Fox5 News’ Marissa Mitchell to discuss therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), or plasmapheresis.

The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine is the first outpatient clinic in the greater, Washington, D.C. area that offers TPE for illnesses such as Alzheimer’s Disease, PANS/PANDAS, Long COVID, inflammatory issues, and for general longevity.

TPE is an FDA-approved medical treatment that filters the blood to remove inflammatory toxins that cause health issues and interfere with the body’s healing process. The blood plasma with toxins is replaced with nutrient-rich fluids such as albumin, helping the body restore balance and create optimal conditions for repair, regeneration, and improved cognitive function.

Think of it it as cleaning a fishbowl–you are removing the “gunk” so your body’s internal environment can thrive again.

PRESS RELEASE

An Origin Story: Why the Kaplan Center Was Ahead of Its Time

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More than 40 years ago, the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine was founded with a simple but unconventional belief: when medicine gets complicated, care must become more thoughtful—not more fragmented.

At a time when most healthcare was organized strictly by specialty and symptom, our clinic was built around a different question: What is driving disease beneath the diagnosis? Rather than treating organs in isolation, we focused on the biological systems that connect them—and on patients whose conditions did not fit neatly into a single box.

This philosophy placed the Kaplan Center ahead of the times.

Seeing the Connections Before They Were Obvious

Long before terms like systems biology and precision medicine entered the mainstream, our clinical work centered on the shared mechanisms underlying chronic illness, neurodegeneration, and aging. We saw, again and again, that inflammation, immune dysregulation, metabolic dysfunction, and impaired repair processes were quietly shaping disease years before it was formally diagnosed.

Our early patients were often those with complex, persistent, or unexplained symptoms—individuals who had exhausted conventional options but still lacked answers. By looking across systems rather than within silos, we were able to detect patterns others missed and design more coherent, individualized care. It isn’t rare that a new study comes out and shares findings that we have been seeing within our patients for the past few decades.

From Complex Chronic Illness to Precision Care

Chronic and neuroinflammatory disease remains the cornerstone of our practice. We continue to care for patients with post-infectious and post-viral syndromes, autoimmune and immune-mediated conditions, refractory pain, and complex neurologic disorders.

What has evolved over time is not our philosophy, but our capability.

Advances in immune, inflammatory, and metabolic diagnostics now allow us to identify disease activity earlier and intervene with far greater precision. Our care has moved beyond managing symptoms toward stabilizing underlying biology and supporting long-term function.

Expanding Into Cognitive Health & Alzheimer’s Care

One of the most important evolutions of our original vision is the development of our cognitive health and Alzheimer’s care pathway.

Decades ago, cognitive decline was typically addressed only after symptoms became disruptive. Today, research confirms what our systems-based approach long suggested:

Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders develop over many years, shaped by inflammation, immune activation, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic stress.

Our cognitive health services reflect this understanding. We emphasize early identification of risk–up to 20 years before symptoms even occur– comprehensive evaluation beyond memory testing alone, and personalized strategies to help slow progression, preserve function, and support patients and families across the disease continuum.

Advanced Therapies, Integrated With Purpose

Being ahead of the curve has never meant chasing trends—it has meant adopting innovation when it meaningfully advances patient care.

The Kaplan Center is proud to be the first outpatient center in the region to offer therapeutic plasma exchange as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy for carefully selected patients with immune-mediated or inflammatory conditions. This advanced therapy represents a significant step forward in addressing complex disease mechanisms—and is never offered in isolation, but integrated into a broader diagnostic and clinical framework.

Beyond Illness: The Evolution Toward Healthspan & Longevity

While the clinic was founded to address complexity and chronic disease, our work today extends beyond treating illness alone.

Drawing on decades of experience caring for what happens when biology breaks down, we have expanded our healthspan and longevity services to help patients intervene earlier—before disease becomes entrenched. This approach focuses on precision prevention: identifying early dysfunction, reducing chronic inflammation, and preserving cognitive, metabolic, and immune resilience over time.

Longevity medicine at the Kaplan Center is not about chasing youth. It is about using evidence, advanced diagnostics, and clinical insight to reduce future disease burden and support healthier aging.

A Legacy Built for What Comes Next

What has remained constant for more than 40 years is our commitment to thoughtful evaluation, systems-based medicine, and long-term partnership with our patients.

The tools have evolved. The therapies have advanced. The scope of care has expanded.

But the founding principle remains the same: complex problems require deep expertise, careful listening, and medicine that sees the whole system—not just the diagnosis.

As we look ahead, that blend of heritage and innovation continues to shape how we care for patients today—and how we prepare for what comes next.

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

cognitive benefits of curcumin

Cognitive Benefits of Curcumin

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The daily consumption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can have significant benefits on cognitive health.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than 88 million Americans over the age of 65 will be diagnosed with neurodegenerative disease by 2050. The progression of neurodegeneration has been associated with the imbalance between the level of antioxidants and the increased oxidative damage by free radicals to proteins, DNA, and lipids.

Curcumin is a chemical compound found in plants, with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and antioxidant properties. Research has seen an astounding success proving the benefits of curcumin as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, with over 7000 articles published in the last two decades. Its neuroprotective properties help prevent free radical damage and calms the inflammatory process at the root of many chronic diseases. Studies have shown it to be effective against many gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. In fact, curcumin has long been suspected to be the reason behind the low rates of Alzheimer’s disease in India, where turmeric spice is widely and frequently used in curry meal preparation.

However, curcumin is unique in that it is not easily absorbed by the body on its own. In order to increase its bioavailability, it must be paired with other compounds, one such example is piperine, a compound found in black pepper.

But for those who don’t have a taste for this beautiful golden spice, supplementation can be key. Research on the supplement Theracurmin* a bioavailable (more easily absorbed by the body) form of curcumin, has shown it contains significantly higher plasma concentration of curcumin than other leading brands of supplements. Clinical studies have also shown it to have benefits in osteoarthritis, muscle fatigue after exercise, and clearing alcohol metabolites. There are on-going clinical trials investigating the effects of Theracurmin on other inflammatory diseases.

A 2019 study on curcumin, led by Dr. Gary Small, director of geriatric psychiatry at UCLA’s Longevity Center, was conducted over an 18 month period and included 40 adults that ranged in age from 51 to 84. Twenty-one randomly selected participants were given twice daily doses of Theracurmin, and the remaining 19 participants were given a placebo. Cognitive assessments were taken every 6 months and curcumin levels were measured at both the start and end of the study. In addition, 30 participants (15 placebo & 15 curcumin) underwent PET scans to measure levels of the proteins amyloid and tau in their brains both at the start of the study and after 18 months. These two proteins are targeted because of their association with neurodegenerative disorders; when accumulated in the brain, they are thought to contribute to the breakdown of neurons which can potentially lead to symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

At the end of the study, researchers concluded that the daily intake of Theracurmin resulted in “improved memory performance and attention in non-demented adults.” Based on the PET findings, the study further concluded that “behavioral and cognitive benefits are associated with decreases in plaque and tangle accumulation in brain regions modulating mood and memory.”

While this study was quite small, the results are indeed promising and warrant continued research. Supplementation with a bioavailable form of curcumin, like Theracurmin, shows tremendous potential as a preventative measure against age-related cognitive decline. Furthermore, the effect curcumin has on decreasing existing amyloid plaque and tau accumulation in the brain shows that it may play a significant role in delaying the onset of other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s dementia.

As research continues to reveal turmeric’s bounty of health benefits, including its ability to limit and possibly reverse the damage of inflammation in the brain, it is becoming more and more evident why it is widely referred to as a miracle spice!

Before taking any supplement consult with your physician to discuss any potential side effects.

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1064748117305110?via%3Dihub

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/dementias

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-56153-6_18

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36367124/

https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)46260-0/fulltext

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8833931/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835707/

https://www.alzheimersorganization.org/turmeric-curcumin-and-alzheimers

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36720711/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9097512/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29326901

 

This article was originally published in Feb 2018. It was reviewed and updated in November 2023.

Healthy omega 3 fats

Build a Healthier Brain With Fat!

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We don’t usually associate increasing the amount of fat in our diets as a way to improve health, but when it comes to a particular type of fat, that’s exactly what the doctor ordered!

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), a type of essential fat involved in several metabolic processes, and they are a crucial component of good health.

Research shows omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis – conditions that often have a high inflammatory process at their root. But most impressive is the research that confirms Omega-3’s benefits on the brain.

There are 11 different types of omega-3s, but the most well-known for their beneficial properties are Alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Dietary sources of ALA, DHA, and EPA

The modern American diet is typically low in Omega-3 and high in Omega-6 fatty acids, another form of polyunsaturated fatty acid found in some vegetable oils (like corn, soybean, and cottonseed oils), nuts and seeds. Too much Omega-6 causes inflammation; therefore, avoiding processed foods that contain them is important. Interestingly, too much Omega-3 can also be bad; it’s all about keeping the ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6 in check.

A well-balanced diet with natural sources of ALA, DHA, and EPA is fundamental to maintaining a healthy ratio that prevents inflammation and promotes long-term health.

DHA and EPA are found in fatty, cold-water fish, such as salmon, trout, cod liver, herring, mackerel, and sardines, as well as shellfish such as shrimp, oysters, clams, and scallops. Fish is the best source of Omega-3s as DHA and EPA are more bioavailable, meaning it is easier for the body to absorb it over ALA. Whenever possible, purchase wild-caught fish and check out SeafoodWatch.org to see which fish are lowest in mercury and other environmental toxins.

ALA comes from plants and is the most largely consumed form of Omega-3 in the typical American diet. It serves as an energy source for our cells and a small percent is converted into DHA and EPA. Dietary sources of ALA include flax seeds and flax oil, walnuts and walnut oil, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and hemp oil, mustard oil, most leafy green vegetables, and tofu.

Some research is being done on algal oil, as it contains both DHA and EPA making it more bioavailable than other plant sources of Omega-3s. For vegans and vegetarians, this may be a promising alternative to fish oils. Some supplement brands have already started creating vegetarian EPA/DHA supplements from algal oil for those who prefer not to take fish oils.

Supplementation

When diets don’t meet the mark, supplementation may be recommended, but should always be done under the supervision of a doctor and dietitian for these reasons:

1) A doctor and/or a dietitian-nutritionist can monitor the ratio of Omega 3:6. Certain health conditions may benefit from additional Omega-3; in this case, proper dosage should be determined by a doctor.

2) When a diet is already rich in Omega-3, supplementation may throw a proper Omega 3:6 ratio off-balance and unintentionally cause inflammation.

3) There are some supplements of omega-3 that are actually inflammatory. Many retail brands of Omega-3 or fish oils come from sources of fish that are fed an atypical diet of corn and soy, which alters the composition of fatty acids in the fish oil. This can cause inflammation. As supplements do not require FDA approval, a dietitian or doctor can recommend a trusted brand.

Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Brain

– Neuropsychiatric conditions: Research shows that Omega-3 fatty acids can be effective in treating depressive conditions, such as Major Depressive Disorder and bipolar disorder.

– Post-stroke & post-concussion: A study published in the Journal of American College of Nutrition found that giving DHA post-concussion helps in the repair and recovery from injury.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of Neuroimmunology found evidence that supported the clinical use of Omega-3 in treating “stroke and other acute neurological diseases” due, in part, to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic (prevention of cell death) properties.

– Neuropathic pain: Neuropathic pain, or pain due to damage of the peripheral or central nervous system, can cause debilitating pain for those affected.

A 2018 study found that patients with neuralgic pain who were treated with omega-3 fatty acids in conjunction with conventional medicine, reported more improvement in pain intensity and quality of life than those who received conventional medicine alone.

In 2010, a review of case studies found that patients with neuropathic pain who were treated with high doses of Omega-3 fish oil had “clinically significant pain reduction” and improved function.

– Migraines: Diets high in Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to lessen the frequency and occurrence of migraine headaches.

– Neurodegenerative disease: DHA is extremely important for brain development and function. Studies show that when DHA levels are low, the brain is more susceptible to degeneration.

Omega-3 fatty acids help scavenge free radicals (atoms, molecules, or ions with unpaired electrons) that attach inappropriately to tissue and damage it.

A study published in The FASEB Journal found that “omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are found in fish oil, could improve the function of the glymphatic system, which facilitate the clearance of waste from the brain, and promote the clearance of metabolites including amyloid-β peptides, a primary culprit in Alzheimer’s disease.”

Studies also show that DHA supplementation can improve cognitive performance.

How much is enough?

Eating a Mediterranean diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, lean meat, and cold-water fish will help a person consume more Omega-3’s on a regular basis. Current literature advises that at least 2, 3.5 oz. portions of oily fish should be eaten weekly, but does this amount support long-term health?

Determining the correct intake of Omega-3 fatty acids depends on an individual’s age, the overall state of physical and mental health, and whether there is a history of trauma that suggests heightened inflammation. To find out the amount that is best for your unique condition, make sure to consult with your health care provider or schedule an appointment at the Kaplan Center.

 

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

This article was originally published on December 2016. It was reviewed and updated in June 2023.

Additional research:

Omega-3 DHA and EPA for cognition, behavior, and mood: clinical findings and structural-functional synergies with cell membrane phospholipids.
Targeted alteration of dietary n-3 and n-6 fatty acids for the treatment of chronic headaches: a randomized trial.
Association between serum long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and cognitive performance in elderly men and women: The Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study
Omega-3 fatty acids and brain resistance to aging and stress: body of evidence and possible mechanisms.
Therapeutic use of omega-3 fatty acids in severe head trauma.

 

Brain Boosting Properties of Resveratrol

4 Brain Boosting Properties of Resveratrol

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What do pistachios, peanuts, blueberries, and grapes have in common? In addition to providing a tasty snack, they are all sources of resveratrol, a naturally occurring substance found in certain plants that offers a number of health benefits to the brain!

Resveratrol is a type of phytoalexin, a substance produced by plant tissues that promotes disease resistance. Medical researchers are still exploring the mechanisms by which it works but it has clearly proven its impact on reducing inflammation in the central nervous system (inflammation of this nature is a major contributor to chronic pain, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases).

Sources of resveratrol

A well-balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and nuts is a wonderful way to obtain Resveratrol. Other food sources include mulberries, raspberries, red wine, pomegranates, dark chocolate, and soy beans.

Bioavailability

Successful in vivo studies (involving animals or humans) are limited but show promise. One reason for their limited success is that Resveratrol has low bioavailability. Merriam-Webster defines bioavailability as “the degree and rate at which a substance is absorbed into a living system or is made available at the site of physiological activity.” In other words, before our bodies are able to reap its benefits, Resveratrol is rapidly absorbed and eliminated. Researchers continue to look for ways to enhance its bioavailability through dosage concentrations and combinations with other compounds. For example, just as piperine can improve the bioavailability of curcumin, it may also improve the bioavailability of resveratrol. A 2020 study published in The Egyptian Rheumatologist concluded that “piperine administration concurrently with resveratrol potentiated the anti-inflammatory efficacy of resveratrol in arthritic-induced rats which could be attributed to the bio-enhancing activity of piperine”. 

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703-532-4892 x2

Possible Clinical Applications of Resveratrol
  1. It has demonstrated neuroprotective qualities post-stroke, post-Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and/or post-spinal cord injury. A 2021 review published in Neurochemistry International, which looked at both in vivo and in vitro studies, confirmed that Resveratrol “can induce a neuroprotective state when administered acutely or prior to experimental injury to the CNS.”
  2. It can potentially lower a person’s risk of opioid dependency. A 2020 study published in World Academy of Sciences Journal found that “RES can potentiate the antinociceptive effects of morphine and reduces morphine tendency and reinstatement.” In other words, this study suggests that it’s possible that Resveratrol, when taken with morphine, can prevent the development of hyperalgesia (increased sensitization to pain) – a condition that often leads to opioid dependency. Furthermore, Resveratrol acts without compromising the morphine’s effectiveness.
  3. It can improve age-related mood and memory function. Resveratrol’s anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties seem to protect cells in the hippocampal region of the brain from damage. This region of the brain converts short-term memory to long-term memory, and is part of the limbic system, which regulates emotion. A study published in Scientific Reports showed that middle aged, Resveratrol-treated rats had “improved learning, memory and mood function” in older age than their “vehicle” (a substance usually without therapeutic action) or control-treated counterparts.
  4. It reduces amyloid plaque formation. Amyloid plaques present as a sticky buildup that accumulates outside nerve cells or neurons, and they have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. A 2022 study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine, found “strong evidence for resveratrol’s neuroprotective and anti-plaque capabilities in viral-induced AD, which merits its further exploration as an AD preventive and therapeutic candidate.”

 

Supplementing with Resveratrol

Resveratrol supplements are available in pure form or combined with other compounds. Dosages are typically somewhere between 5mgs and 5gms, depending on the individual’s medical condition.

* If you are considering taking a supplement, make sure to talk with your physician about possible interactions with other medicines.

In sum, Resveratrol is a powerful anti-oxidant with a demonstrated potential to nurture and even heal the brain. With many delightful sources available in food, supplementing with Resveratrol can ensure that our bodies get even more of this wonderful gift from nature!

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

Additional References:

Bioavailability (n.d.) Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved from //www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bioavailability.

Meng T, Xiao D, Muhammed A, Deng J, Chen L, He J. Anti-Inflammatory Action and Mechanisms of Resveratrol. Molecules. 2021 Jan 5;26(1):229. doi: 10.3390/molecules26010229. PMID: 33466247; PMCID: PMC7796143.

Jardim FR, de Rossi FT, Nascimento MX, da Silva Barros RG, Borges PA, Prescilio IC, de Oliveira MR. Resveratrol and Brain Mitochondria: a Review. Mol Neurobiol. 2018 Mar;55(3):2085-2101. doi: 10.1007/s12035-017-0448-z. Epub 2017 Mar 10. PMID: 28283884.

Bailey HH, Johnson JJ, Lozar T, Scarlett CO, Wollmer BW, Kim K, Havinghurst T, Ahmad N. A randomized, double-blind, dose-ranging, pilot trial of piperine with resveratrol on the effects on serum levels of resveratrol. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2021 May 1;30(3):285-290. doi: 10.1097/CEJ.0000000000000621. PMID: 32868637; PMCID: PMC7910313.

3 Reasons to Include Turmeric In Your Diet

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Native to southwest India, and known for its radiant golden color and unique taste, turmeric has been used as a culinary herb for thousands of years, and is found in abundance in many Indian dishes, especially curries. But it is its role as a healing herb that has caused scientists to take a closer look at this “miracle spice.”

The magic of turmeric resides in the roots, specifically in the chemical compound called curcumin. Curcumin is a polyphenol – a chemical compound found in plants with antioxidant properties, and myriad therapeutic attributes. A study in Advances in Experimental Medicines and Biology, went so far as to state that “Curcumin has been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities and thus has a potential against various malignant diseases, diabetes, allergies, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic illnesses.”

#1 – Defense against cognitive decline

A 2018 article in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease highlighted the protective effects of curcumin in the treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The review particularly looked at curcumin’s effect against amyloid beta (Aß), a peptide that plays a central role in the pathology of AD.

  • Curcumin may help the macrophages – critical cells of the immune system – clear plaque deposits of Aß. Unlike a healthy brain, patients with Alzheimer’s Disease show an accumulation of amyloid plaques between nerve cells (neurons).
  • Curcumin has demonstrated that it has neuro-protective effect against Aß induced cell death of cortical neurons.
  • Curcumin has shown to inhibit the accumulation of Aß and promote its reduction.

Furthermore, curcumin has anti-proliferative actions on microglia. Microglia are immune cells of the central nervous system that become active in response to any number of stressors on the body. However, if the microglia have been stimulated to react too often, they become hyper-reactive, which can trigger system-wide inflammation that can be difficult to stop.

#2 – Defense against cancer

A 2019 review of research on the role of curcumin in cancer therapy, confirmed that “curcumin exhibits anticancer ability by targeting different cell signaling pathways including growth factors, cytokines, transcription factors, and genes modulating cellular proliferation and apoptosis,” all of which are associated with the progression of cancer.

  • Curcumin’s antioxidant properties help prevent the increase of free radicals. Antioxidants scavenge free radical. When free radicals are left unchecked, it results in oxidative stress which damages cells and plays a big role in the early stages of cancer.
  • Curcumin has shown an ability to inhibit nuclear factor kß (NF-kß). NF-kß is a proinflammatory molecule associated with cancer progression and inflammation.

According to another systematic review in 2020, curcumin shows both preventative and therapeutic effects on various types of cancers when used as an adjunct therapy in cancer treatment.

  • Curcumin’s low toxicity allows for widespread use, with no harmful side effects.
  • Curcumin can help improve quality of life by its ability to reduce side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

#3 – Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties also make it a strong candidate for treating inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis. A 2017 study in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation found that supplementation with a bioavailable form of curcumin “appeared to be effective in reducing the pain and enhancing muscular and balancing function” in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

How should you add curcumin to your diet?

  • Supplementation: Curcumin is not a major component of American diets, so supplementation could be considered. Unfortunately, because curcumin is not easily absorbed in the bloodstream, its bioavailability is diminished. Bioavailability can be increased, however, by partnering the extract with another compound to enhance its absorption. Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, is one such example. At the Kaplan Center, the curcumin supplement* we prescribe is micronized in colloidal particles and as a result, has significantly higher plasma concentration over other leading brands. Remember, supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so make sure to purchase your supplement from a trusted source. You should also speak to your physician before you begin taking any supplement to rule out any possible interactions with other medications.
  • Eat more curry! Eating more curried dishes that are rich in turmeric spice as well as black pepper regularly can be a good source of curcumin.
  • Enjoy a cup of turmeric milk: End your day with a cup of delicious Golden Turmeric Milk (see video below!). Curcumin is fat-soluble, therefore combining it with milk will help to make the curcumin more readily absorbed into the body.

Studies on curcumin and its efficacy in humans is ongoing, but the research looks quite promising. With very few side effects, powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties, and a long history of medicinal use, curcumin can play an important role in maintaining the body’s normal inflammatory response, while also supporting healing and relieving pain.

*Theracurmin® HP is available to purchase from the Kaplan Medical Center Store.

 

 

 

Dr. Kaplan’s article first appeared on U.S. News and World Reports on July 24, 2015. Updated in Jan 2023.