February 12, 2024 Puzzle Piece
Early detection of micronutrient deficiencies reduces neuro-degenerative disease risk, study says.
In
today’s toxic world, exacerbated by nutrient-deficient processed foods,
obtaining critical nutrients from supplements is literally a life-saver
for many people.
This was demonstrated dramatically during the Covid pandemic
when study after study showed nutrient-deficient individuals had much
worse outcomes when contracting the disease.
Now a new study has documented how early detection of micronutrient
deficiencies can provide protection from neurodegenerative diseases.
Their advice? Get tested and take a multi-vitamin/mineral.
Neurodegenerative diseases
“Neurodegenerative disease” is an umbrella term for a range of
conditions which primarily affect the neurons in the human brain. A
decline in cognitive functioning is a common symptom of all
neurodegenerative diseases. The conditions are typically brought on by
age, but not always.
Alzheimer’s disease is probably the most recognized of neurodegenerative
diseases; however, the list includes multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s
disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple system atrophy, amyotrophic
lateral sclerosis, and prion diseases.
According to the new research, published in Nutrients in
September 2023, early detection of micronutrient deficiencies was
demonstrated to “significantly improve the clinical prognosis” for
patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Micronutrients have a crucial and irreplaceable role in intermediary
metabolism,” the researchers wrote in the study’s conclusions. “They are
an integral part of the therapy of neurological disorders for their
neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.”
The study, a systematic review, was conducted in the Czech Republic and
included 105 citations of existing research. The study was supported by
the National Institute for Neurological Research and was funded by the European Union.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients are essential dietary elements, including vitamins and
minerals, that are required by humans in varying amounts to facilitate
normal biological functions and health.
While macronutrients—carbohydrates, protein, and fats—are consumed in large quantities measured in grams, micronutrients are needed in much smaller amounts.
Daily intake for most vitamins is measured in milligram quantities, and intake for minerals is typically smaller still—measured in microgram amounts. Still most people do not obtain an adequate intake.
Studies show nine out of 10 people are deficient in at least one
nutrient, and half the population are deficient in several nutrients.
The researchers noted that the existing studies clearly established the
role of long-term abnormal levels of micronutrients in the development
of some neurological diseases. And, though only small amounts of
micronutrients are needed, when levels are low the consequences can be
severe.
“The
main function of micronutrients is their catalytic effect in enzyme
systems, either as cofactors or as components of metalloenzymes. Other
essential roles of micronutrients are antioxidant activity, modulation
of cellular immunity, and tissue healing, either directly or by using
substances created through their induction,” the researchers wrote in
the study findings.
Relative to neurological disorders, the researchers found the vitamins
that are especially concerning when plasmatic levels are low are
vitamins A, B, C, D, and E. On the mineral front, the researchers noted
that selenium, copper, and zinc are the micronutrients to ensure
homeostasis.
The researchers noted that a multi-vitamin/mineral provided the
best therapeutic potential, compared to the stand-alone vitamin
options: “Multiple signaling pathways capable of boosting the
antioxidative response are involved in the multivitamin approach. It is
also possible that such adjuvant agents are most effective for
prevention rather than treatment.”
Nutritional testing saves lives
While the current study highlights nutrient deficiencies as biomarkers
for cognitive disorders, these same deficiencies are also biomarkers for
many other health conditions—including heart disease, diabetes and
cancer.
Nutritional testing that identifies these biomarkers can equip the
consumer with the knowledge they need to make appropriate lifestyle
changes and specific nutrient intake adjustments. Nutritional testing,
such as the Nutrients Rx Bloodwork & Questionnaire by Optimal Health Systems can provide comprehensive lab work to test more than 200 biomarkers.
In the U.S., “healthcare” is concentrated on treatment of symptoms, with
only 3% of healthcare spending going towards preventative health.
Test for and treat with Opti-Brain, Opti-Metals and Opti-Enviro.
Yours in Health and Wellness,
Doug Grant, Formulator and Patent Holder
Marc Harris MD, ND, PhD
John W Brimhall, DC, BA, BS, FIAMA, DIBAK, Formulator, Patent Holder
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