SolveYourProblem Article Series: Alzheimers Disease
Help Me Understand Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease – Is Aluminum A Cause?

Another question that has been raised with regard to factors that may play a role in causing Alzheimer's is the possible absorption of excessive amounts of aluminum into the body.

The issue began as scientists in the early l960's observed that the brains of rabbits exposed to aluminum exhibited a pathology similar to that of Alzheimer's disease. It was also noted that some patients that had to undergo long term dialysis developed a build up of aluminum in their blood that caused a type of dementia. The concern continued to grow as more and more aluminum found its way into everyday items in the form of cooking utensils, antiperspirant, antacids and drinking cans to name a few.

Throughout the years there have been studies that seem to make a link between Alzheimer's and aluminum as well as studies that work to disprove any substantial connection at all.

These studies show on the one hand that while some people with Alzheimer's have shown increased levels of aluminum in their system others have not.

It is accepted that aluminum is a toxic substance that is harmful to the body's nervous system. However, because aluminum is one of the most common elements found on earth it makes linking it specifically to this disease more difficult. Added to this is the fact that the type of dementia that has been linked to increased levels of aluminum differs in its pathology to that of Alzheimer's.

In view of the fact that a direct correlation between aluminum and Alzheimer's has yet to be established in laboratory studies some major health organizations have taken the stance that based on current knowledge, the type of natural exposure that the average person may experience in daily life will play no significant role in developing Alzheimer's.

Though research continues in this field, scientists have broadened their approach in the search for what, if anything, may be an environmental cause of this disease. While it may not yet be known if there is any direct link, common sense teaches us to be watchful nonetheless. Ultimately, it still remains with each individual to focus on areas that have proven to have a positive impact on their health. These areas include as always such important aspects as:

• Avoiding negative things as smoking and excessive alcohol
• The pursuit of good nutrition and healthy exercise
• The need to stay active intellectually
• As well, to have good social and emotional interaction with others.

In the war against Alzheimer's, taking a long term proactive stance is vital in our defense.

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by SolveYourProblem.com : 2009

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