A Relative with Memory Problems? My Key Recommendations

Take the Cognitive Function Test

• First of all, with help, get your relative to do the Cognitive Function Test (which they may struggle with), followed by questionnaire, to find out where the weak points are. Even if they can’t complete the Cognitive Function Test, do complete the questionnaire because this will show where the weak areas that need attention are. An example test result is below.

Sign Up to COGNITION

Ideally, they should then sign up to COGNITION, online support, to get a focussed brain upgrade.

What to Do if Your Relative is Too Far Along to Receive and Respond to Emails

Here are some quick wins:

Step 1: Take the DRIfT Test

First, get them do the DRIfT home test to measure HBA1c, homocysteineHomocysteine is an amino acid found in the blood. Elevated levels of homocysteine have been associated with narrowing and hardening of the arteries, an increased…, omega-3 index and vitamin DWhat it does: Helps maintain strong and healthy bones by retaining calcium. Deficiency Signs: Joint pain or stiffness, backache, tooth decay, muscle cramps, hair loss….. if their HbA1c and vitamin D. You can also test these individually.

Step 2: Review the Results & Take Action

Review the results and take action accordingly

HbA1c

From a raised HbA1c we’d know if sugar balance is a problem, in which case 2 tablespoons (60g) of C8 oil is likely to help, as well as eating low carbs and avoiding sugar as much as possible (and limit alcohol). The C8 oil, like my Ketofast, helps the brain make ketones which is an alternative fuel source for brain cells and fills the ‘energy gap’ created by poor glucose delivery, a function of insulinInsulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. It is responsible for making the body’s cells absorb glucose (sugar) from the blood…. resistance.

Homocysteine

If Homocysteine is above 10mcmol/l, we’d know they need homocysteine lowering B vitamins (including supplementing vitamin B12 500mcg as is found in Connect – see https://foodforthebrain.org/homocysteine-lowering-b-vitamins/

Omega-3

If Omega-3 is below 8%, they need to eat more oily fish and supplement omega-3 fish oils with 500mg of DHADHA is short for Docosahexaenoic Acid. It is an essential omega-3 fatty acid found in fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring, and is often… which is a high strength Omega-3 – see https://foodforthebrain.org/omega-3/

Vitamin D

If Vitamin D is below 75nmol/l they need to supplement – probably 1,000 to 3,000ius  a day or 10,000-20,000ius a week – normally a high strength Vitamin D. See https://foodforthebrain.org/vitamin-d/ which explains what’s needed depending on her level.

Step 3: Ensure Enough Phospholipids

Understand the combining of nutrients. Neuronal membranes, which is what breaks down in dementia, are made from both phospholipids binding to omega-3, which requires B vitamins to drive a process called methylationMethylation is what occurs when the body takes one substance and turns it into another, so that it can be detoxified and excreted from the…. If this is not working, homocysteine goes up.

A critical phospholipid is Phosphatidyl Choline (PC), bound to omega-3 DHA (known as PC-DHA, which predicts dementia if low). The cholinesterase inhibitor drugs try to protect this but why not supplement phosphatidyl choline, which is very rich in lecithin capsules like my high strength Lecithin, or granules. See https://foodforthebrain.org/phospholipids/

Step 4: Combine Nutrients to Work in Synergy

Take two high PC lecithin capsules, plus at least 500mg of omega-3 DHA, plus homocysteine lowering B vitamin complexes to covers all bases. It is why I devised the Brain Food Upgrade Pack which contains all three.

Step 5: Change Diet & Lifestyle

Ensure they have a diet low in sugar and carbs, lots of oily fish, exercise, as much social and intellectual stimulation as possible and good sleep, can only help. There’s plenty of information in Reports and Blogs on this website or sign up to my E-News on the home page for regular updates.