What deficits to measure in Lewy Body dementia? The story of Janine and her mother
How measuring vitamin and mineral deficiencies and adjusting lifestyle and supplementation can help manage Lewy body dementia and reduce the risk of the disease.
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a serious and complex neurodegenerative disease that causes symptoms such as memory loss, cognitive decline, and motor problems. For Janine, her mother's diagnosis came as a shock. She wondered if this diagnosis was accurate and if there was anything she could do to slow the disease process or even prevent her from developing Lewy body-dementia herself.
In this blog, we discuss the key deficits to measure in Lewy body dementia to better understand and manage symptoms. In addition, we discuss what Janine can do to protect her own health, especially with regard to hereditary predisposition.
Why is deficit measurement important in Lewy body dementia?
Lewy body dementia and vitamin and mineral deficiencies can have overlapping symptoms, such as memory loss, confusion, and motor disorders. By detecting deficiencies early, Janine can ensure that her mother receives appropriate treatment. This can not only help better manage the symptoms of LBD, but also prevent these symptoms from being exacerbated by other underlying health problems.
What deficits should you measure in Lewy body dementia?
If you are dealing with a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia, it is important to check the following deficits:
- Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to severe neurological symptoms, such as memory loss and confusion, which are very similar to the symptoms of LBD. It is important to monitor B12 levels to prevent these symptoms from being exacerbated by deficiency.
- Vitamin D
Low vitamin D levels are often associated with cognitive decline. Adequate vitamin D can help support brain function and improve overall immune system health.
- Folic acid (Vitamin B9)
Folic acid is essential for healthy brain function. Deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and memory problems, which can easily be mistaken for LBD.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in the production of neurotransmitters. Although there is no direct evidence that supplementing B6 can slow the progression of LBD, a deficiency may contribute to neurological problems.
- Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4)
An imbalance in thyroid hormones can lead to symptoms similar to Lewy body dementia. Checking thyroid function is essential to avoid misdiagnosis.
- Calcium and Magnesium
Calcium and magnesium are important for muscle and nerve function. Deficiencies in these minerals can worsen muscle cramps, fatigue and cognitive problems, which can exacerbate the symptoms of LBD.
- Iron (Ferritin and Hemoglobin)
Iron deficiency can lead to anemia and fatigue, which can worsen the cognitive symptoms of Lewy body dementia. Controlling iron levels is important for maintaining energy and brain function.
What can Janine do to reduce her own risk of Lewy body dementia?
In addition to caring for her mother, Janine worries about her own risk of Lewy body dementia, especially given the possible hereditary predisposition. While there is no way to completely prevent the disease, there are several steps she can take to reduce her risk and support her brain health.
- Lifestyle changes
- Regular exercise: Exercise promotes blood flow to the brain and supports brain health. Janine may benefit from regular physical activity such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
- Healthy diet: A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats is essential for maintaining good health and can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to cognitive decline. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation can help reduce stress.
- Good sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for brain function. Janine needs to make sure she gets adequate and quality sleep each night to support her brain.
- Supplement
- Vitamin B12: Especially important for vegetarians and vegans, or for anyone who has difficulty getting enough B12 through diet.
- Vitamin D: Supplementation may be necessary, especially in the winter months or for people with low exposure to sunlight.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These fatty acids are important for brain function and can help reduce inflammation. They are found in fish oil or algae oil.
- Antioxidants: Vitamins such as vitamins C and E, as well as other antioxidants, can help reduce oxidative stress, which can be beneficial to the brain.
- Regular Health Check-ups
Janine can have her blood levels checked regularly to make sure she is not deficient. This can help her take early action and reduce her risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
In brief
Janine now has a better understanding of what she can do to both help her mother and protect her own health. Measuring deficits is a crucial step in managing the symptoms of Lewy body dementia and in preventing further complications. Through lifestyle changes and supplementation, Janine may be able to reduce her risk of this disease and support her overall health.
At Bloedwaardentest.nl, we offer reliable and accessible tests to check these important values. Take the step today to monitor your health and secure your future.
