Possible causes of Alzheimer from the Intermittent Fasting perspective

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain and is characterized by the gradual loss of cognitive and neurological abilities.

The disease is progressive. Over time, it slowly destroys memory, thinking and social skills, and limits the patient’s ability to conduct a basic conversation. Eventually, patients lose the ability to conduct the simplest daily tasks.

In order to maintain its functions, the brain relies heavily on glucose given it is the primary energy source of the brain cells.

For Alzheimer's disease patients, the brain experiences a change in glucose metabolism, which leads to a decrease in the brain's ability to properly use glucose as a source of nutrition. As a result, brain cells start to starve and might eventually die, which causes memory loss and cognitive decline.

This change in glucose metabolism is thought to be related to the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. These are accumulations of microscopic brain proteins that can disrupt normal functioning of the nerve cells and cause inflammation in the brain. This is suggested to alter glucose uptake and metabolism, thus causing memory loss and cognitive decline.

Another cause for Alzheimer is suggested to be due to insulin resistance that alters glucose metabolism and lead to mental and cognitive decline.

Learn everything about Alzheimer and find all the natural solutions to treat it and prevent it naturally, including various diet programs, alternative medicine, vitamins, supplements, herbal medicine, and home remedies.

Why Intermittent Fasting helps Reduce and Prevent Alzheimer

Intermittent fasting can help for Alzheimer because it can lead to beneficial changes in various metabolic processes. As such, it can improve insulin sensitivity and lower inflammation, which are believed to play a critical role in the development of Alzheimer.

Additionally, intermittent fasting can shift the body into a state of ketosis, in which it starts producing ketones instead of glucoses. These ketones can be used as an alternative energy source for the brain and are suggested to be a much better source compared to glucose because of their efficient pathway.

Some studies showed that ketones help improve cognitive function and could potentially prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease because of their neuroprotective properties.

Other studies have suggested that intermittent fasting may promote the growth of new brain cells, which can be beneficial for cognitive function as well.

How Intermittent Fasting works for Alzheimer's disease

How intermittent fasting works in the body to benefit for Alzheimer is not yet fully understood, but the mechanism is thought to involve several factors including:

- Autophagy: autophagy is the body's way of cleaning out damaged cells in order to regenerate new ones. This process may help get rid of damaged or unhealthy cells in the brain that contribute to Alzheimer's disease.

- Insulin sensitivity: Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help brain cells process glucose to get the necessary energy and nutrition.

- Inflammation: intermittent fasting can reduce oxidative stress in the body and thus, it has been shown to reduce inflammation. The latter has detrimental effects on brain memory and cognitive functions and is considered a major contributor for Alzheimer's disease development.

- Ketone bodies: Intermittent fasting creates a metabolic shift in the body by which the body starts producing ketone from fat, instead of glucose from carbohydrates. This is because carbohydrates reserves become much lower after few hours and the need to produce energy in order to survive. These ketones are a better alternative source of energy and nutrition for the brain.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: fasting schedule

Intermittent fasting is not a specific diet program, but rather a pattern of eating that involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. There are several different methods of intermittent fasting, each with its own unique set of rules. Here are a few popular methods:

The 16/8 Method: This involves fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8 hour window. For example, you might eat from 12pm to 8pm and then fast until 12pm the next day.

The 5:2 Diet: This method involves eating normally for 5 days of the week and restricting calories to 500-600 for the other 2 days.

Alternate Day Fasting: This method involves alternating between a day of normal eating and a day of calorie restriction.

Eat-Stop-Eat: This involves one or two 24-hour fasting periods per week.

The Warrior Diet: This method involves eating a very small amount of raw fruits and vegetables during the day, then eating one large meal at night.

It's important to note that everyone's body is different, and what works well for one person may not work well for another.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: Food List

Intermittent fasting does not necessarily prescribe specific foods to eat, but rather focuses on the timing of when to eat. Generally, during the non-fasting period, it is recommended to consume a diet that is high in nutrients and low in processed foods.

Some foods that may be beneficial to consume during the non-fasting period include:

- Fruits and vegetables: These are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

- Lean protein: Such as chicken, fish, and tofu.

- Whole grains: Such as quinoa, oats, and brown rice.

- Healthy fats: Such as avocado, nuts, and olive oil.

- Legumes: Such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: recommendations

When following an intermittent fasting protocol, it is important to keep in mind a few recommendations:

- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during the fasting period to stay hydrated and to help curb hunger.

- Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body's signals and stop fasting if you feel unwell or overly hungry.

- Gradually adjust: Gradually increase the duration of your fasting period to allow your body to adapt.

- Consider your medications: Some medications require food to be taken with them, consult with your doctor before starting an intermittent fasting routine.

- Be consistent: Intermittent fasting works best when it's done consistently over time.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: what to avoid

When following an intermittent fasting protocol, it is best to avoid certain foods and habits:

- Sugary foods and drinks: Consuming high amounts of sugar can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories, and can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- High-calorie beverages: Drinks like soda, juice, and sweetened coffee and tea can contain a lot of calories and sugar, which can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- Don't overeat during non-fasting period: Eating large meals or consuming high-calorie foods during the non-fasting period can negate the benefits of intermittent fasting.

- Avoid snacking: Consuming small amounts of food during the fasting period can disrupt the body's metabolic changes and negate the benefits of fasting.

- Alcohol: Consuming alcohol during the fasting period can disrupt the body's metabolic changes and negate the benefits of fasting.

- Breaking the fast with a heavy meal: Some people recommend breaking the fast with a light, nutrient-dense meal rather than a heavy meal.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: precautions

Intermittent fasting is not for everyone and may not be suitable for certain people such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with history of eating disorder, or people with blood sugar issues.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program, especially if you have any health conditions or take any medications.

Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer: side effects

Intermittent fasting can have some side effects, particularly during the initial adjustment period. Some of the most common side effects include:

- Hunger: During the fasting period, you may feel hungry or experience cravings for food. This is normal and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Fatigue: Some people may feel tired or have low energy levels during the fasting period. This is also normal and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Headaches: Some people may experience headaches or lightheadedness during the fasting period. This is usually caused by low blood sugar and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Difficulty sleeping: Intermittent fasting may disrupt sleep patterns, particularly if you eat a large meal late at night. This can usually be resolved by adjusting the timing of your meals.

- Constipation: Intermittent fasting may cause constipation, particularly if you don't eat enough fiber during the eating period. This can usually be resolved by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables.

It's important to note that these side effects are usually temporary and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional.