Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive diseases have become a rising problem in America. Recent studies suggest that a person’s risk of dementia doubles every five years, starting at age 65.
By age 90, roughly 30% of people will develop Alzheimer’s or dementia. And there is currently no concrete cure for either of these conditions.
However, with the growing awareness of the prevalence of Alzheimer’s and dementia come new solutions. One of the most innovative and comprehensive solutions in recent years is the Bredesen Protocol.
Who Is Bredesen?
Dr. Dale Bredesen is an expert in neurodegenerative diseases, with a specific focus on Alzheimer’s. Bredesen received his MD from Duke University Medical Center and has held faculty positions at:
- UCSF
- UCLA
- The University of California, San Diego
He eventually developed the Bredesen Protocol intending to reverse cognitive decline. His research lead to his New York Times bestseller, The End of Alzheimer’s: The First Program to Prevent and Reverse Cognitive Decline.
What Is the Bredesen Protocol?
Through Dr. Bresdesen’s research, he discovered Alzheimer’s disease is not one just condition. He believed it is instead three distinct conditions, which are influenced by at least 36 metabolic factors, (such as micronutrients, hormone levels, and sleep), which can all trigger “downsizing” in the brain.
The three major groups are as follows:
- Inflammatory Alzheimer’s, which results from a range of inflammatory conditions, such as:
- Imbalances in fatty acids
- Sugar-damaged proteins
- Prolonged exposure to infectious pathogens
- Having the ApoE4 allele (Alzheimer’s gene)
- Other stressors that cause chronic inflammation
- Atrophic Alzheimer’s, which results from a loss of trophic or nutritional support.
- Hormonal imbalances in the endocrine system
- Insulin resistance
- A lack of key nutrients
- A loss of nerve growth factor
- Toxic Alzheimer’s, which results from prolonged exposure to toxins, including:
- Heavy metals (mercury or copper)
- Biotoxins
- Pesticides
- Organic pollutants, such as mold
Given this new information on different types of Alzheimer’s and contributing factors, the Bredesen Protocol uses highly-individualized treatments based on a patient’s specific needs or vulnerability to certain triggers, to produce improvements in brain functioning and even regeneration in the brain
What Does the Bredesen Protocol Entail?
Multiple tests are typically used to identify any factors that can be contributing to cognitive decline for a specific patient. From there, the treatments are highly specific to the individual, and can include the following:
- Specific nutrition regimens and diets, with a focus on a plant-based ketogenic diet.
- Exercise programs, and especially aerobic and strength training.
- Brain training to enhance the brain’s neuroplasticity.
- Sleep regimens, which includes obtaining seven to eight hours per night and testing for obstructive sleep apnea.
- Hormones, if necessary.
- Meditation and other stress-relief programs or treatments.
- Health coaching to optimize your personalized program, and if needed, specific medications.
Simply put, with the Bredesen Protocol, treating Alzheimer’s and cognitive disease is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. We will identify your specific risks makes it easier to stop cognitive decline well before the first noticeable signs.
Want to learn more? Schedule your consultation with the Lamkin Clinic today! We’ll work together to find real solutions and steps to ensure your cognitive health is at its best.