Can Coconut Oil Reduce the Effects of Alzheimer's Disease?

One recent discovery that shows promising results is the consumption of coconut oil by some Alzheimer's patients. As seen in this video, the the Alzheimer's patient shows significant improvement of cognitive function after consuming coconut oil as part of his regular diet.

Researchers have discovered that the brains of Alzheimer's patients may have difficulty utilizing glucose (sugar, made from the carbohydrates we eat), the principal source of energy. Without fuel, these cells may begin to die. There is an alternative energy source for brain cells: fats known as ketones. If deprived of carbohydrates, the body produces ketones naturally. Coconut oil is high in ketones, also known as medium-chain triglycerides. Unlike carbohydrates and sugars, the body converts ketones to energy immediately, thus not depriving the brain of the energy it needs to function properly. There is evidence to suggest that adding coconut oil to a healthy diet - about 30 mg. per day - can increase brain function and improve cognition even in patients who are suffering from advancing Alzheimer's. Some in the medical community believe that coconut oil can even be beneficial for patients suffering from Parkinsons, ALS, multiple sclerosis, drug-resistant epilepsy, type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

While there is still much to learn about the effects coconut oil has on memory loss and other illnesses, it is best to speak to a memory and aging specialist in order to determine what the best course of action is when dealing with specific symptoms. Dr. David Tal and the professionals at Age Matters memory disorder clinic in Toronto are encouraged by the positive results seen in the video, but understand that each patient is different.

If you or a loved one suffers from dementia or another memory disorder, call 647.268.0620 to find out how a geriatric assessment can help.