Mild cognitive impairment versus normal memory loss associated with aging

Written by Professor John Nolan, PhD - School of Health Science - Nutrition Research Centre Ireland

Mild cognitive impairment versus normal memory loss associated with aging: How do I know the difference and what should I do?

1. Protective nutrients are stored in the brain.^[1]

It is known that specific dietary-derived compounds “carotenoids” and omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FAs) selectively accumulate in brain tissue where they are positioned to reduce oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation. Of note, we also know that oxidative stress and inflammation cause Alzheimer’s disease. Carotenoids are plant-based pigments that contain powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and omega-3 fatty acids are the building blocks required to support the cells in the brain.

2. Optimized levels of these brain nutrients are related to better brain function.^[2]

Individuals with high carotenoid brain concentrations perform significantly better when compared to individuals with low carotenoid brain concentrations of the same age in terms of cognitive function. In other words, they have better memory, attention and processing skills.

3. Healthy individuals can benefit.^[3]

Cognitively healthy individuals that are supplemented with a specific formulation of carotenoids found in Memory Health demonstrated improvements in cognitive (brain) function when compared to individuals that received a placebo (a supplement containing no active carotenoids or omega-3 fatty acids).

4. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease are lacking carotenoids.^[4]

Patients with Alzheimer’s disease are significantly deficient in in brain carotenoid levels compared to aged-matched controls.

5. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease can benefit.^{[5, 6]}

Patients with Alzheimer’s disease that were supplemented with Memory Health® (the patented carotenoid and omega-3 formulation) experienced positive outcomes, with caregivers reports showing improvements in functional ability, memory, sight and mood for these patients on the active supplement, Memory Health®. This important work is now being repeated in a larger trial and results are expected in the summer of 2021

6. Patients with MCI can benefit.[7]

In a recently published study, patients with MCI that were supplemented with the Memory Health® formulation demonstrated improved performance in memory and global cognition after just 12-months of targeted supplementation, when compared to a placebo-controlled group. 

Taken together, these studies highlight the importance of targeted nutritional supplementation using carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids; however, the evidence shows that while such supplementation is beneficial for patients with Alzheimer’s disease, the true benefits of good brain nutrition/ supplementation must be utilized throughout our life and not just for patients suffering with Alzheimer’s disease. We are fortunate to live in a time where people live much longer than before. However, we can only celebrate aging if function and quality of life is maintained and supported. In addition to good nutrition and lifestyle, targeted, effective and safe supplementation is essential to achieve this goal. 

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