Inflammation and Alzheimer’s Disease

Several studies have shown that chronic inflammation of the brain plays a role in causing Alzheimer’s disease and that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with a lower risk of contracting this disease. However, NSAIDs taken over long periods of time can cause gastrointestinal, liver and renal toxicity.

In one study (J Neurosci 2001;21:8370-7) researchers evaluated the common Indian spice turmeric in mice. After six months of use, the mice eating the turmeric had a significant reduction in two markers of inflammation in the brain and also had less free radical damage to brain cells without experiencing any side effects. Incidentally, mice receiving less turmeric every day did better than those fed larger amounts. The most beneficial dose would be roughly equivalent to 1,600 mg of curcumin per day for a 150 lbs person. Curcumin is believed to be the most active ingredient in turmeric. Researchers caution that, even though this preliminary study is promising, there still is no research in humans on the effects of turmeric.

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