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Do you have a family history of Alzheimer’s or want to know how to prevent cognitive decline?

Do not despair! It is an out-of-date, misinformed view to think there is nothing that can be done when diagnosed early. Much progress has been made and I will include links to some of the research studies and resources soon.

This example video summarizes the type of care you need and deserve. It starts with leading researcher Dale Bredesen, MD and his protocol that I follow with anyone addressing cognitive decline. I do not work with the staff speaking in the video. (They are from a leading clinic in California led by Kristine Burke, MD.) I have a solo, virtual practice in Indianapolis that can help guide you and coordinate your care. I do the nutrition and health coaching pieces, but I can help educate you on the process and possibilities to get you started with a doctor who knows the Bredesen protocol. Testing to identify your contributing factors (starting with high blood sugar or cardiovascular disease) and to rule out toxins, infections, deficiencies, and other sources of inflammation is essential. I can order the functional testing to identify a lot of this, but I will help you find and can coordinate with a functional medicine doctor who knows how to diagnose and treat what we find. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86qioG6PrbY&t=1824s

Are you, or someone you love, showing signs of cognitive decline?

Time is of the essence. The Bredesen protocol is much more successful to stop cognitive decline in the earliest stages. By the time someone is diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment there is nothing mild about it. The time to address concerns is before or at the first signs or symptoms (when only you or maybe your spouse are noticing difficulties). Some of the drugs on the market now that may slow the rate of decline in Alzheimer’s are only for people in the early stages.

Diagnosis is critical. There are other conditions and deficiencies that can look like the beginnings of some kind of dementia, but are easily remedied. There are other kinds of dementia besides Alzheimer’s. A correct diagnosis can lead to the correct treatment. You may be eligible for studies, resources, and support that can help you and your family. The diagnostic process can start with your primary care doctor without the long wait to see a specialized neurologist. Along with interview and cognitive testing, they may use a simple blood test called the Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio (now FDA approved) to identify Alzheimer’s pathology without needing spinal fluid or other scans. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-blood-test-used-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease

Let’s discuss your risk factors in your diet, lifestyle, medical history, and family history. Let’s discuss if you want to consider genetic testing to identify if you have the non-deterministic APOE4 allele that may increase your risk for developing the disease. Not everyone with this variant will develop Alzheimer’s, however. It may be reason to watch for other medical risk factors, however. (I use the 3x4 genetics report that gives insight on many actionable genes that may be affecting your health.)

I am also developing a group education and coaching program for those with a family history that want to optimize their health and minimize their risks. The next class will probably be in January. Message me through my contact page if you are interested.

Have you or someone you care about been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s?

Have you been diagnosed with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis?

DEXA scans are still the gold standard for diagnosing these silent bone metabolism diseases. I can help you get a free DEXA scan in Indianapolis, if your insurance won’t cover it. I highly recommend a baseline measurement BEFORE women reach menopause when bone density will start drastically decreasing. But it is never too late to get tested to determine the quantity of your bone remaining.

If you are diagnosed with low bone density, it is essential to determine your root cause and identify how to minimize your risk for a fracture now and in the future. There is so much more that should be considered besides just taking more calcium and hoping it doesn’t get worse. I know so many healthy-eating exercisers who are shocked to learn they have low bone density. First, let’s make sure your doctor has ordered the right labs to rule out a few medical conditions that can result secondarily in osteoporosis.

Your bones are constantly breaking down and rebuilding. I rely on blood markers to determine which of these areas you are having trouble in. Should you consider hormone replacement therapy? Are you eating enough of the essential nutrients needed to make bone, AND digesting and absorbing those nutrients? Are you getting the right kind of exercise? Do you have food sensitivities or intestinal permeability (aka “leaky gut”)? Do you know that high blood sugar and thyroid issues can affect your bones? Have you checked your hormones? How is your stress and cardiovascular health?

There is a lot to consider. I will help you answer those questions, and get the right labs and testing ordered to identify your contributing factors. Together we will identify a methodical plan to address, retest, and monitor. I can help you identify the appropriate, quality supplements to help you implement the diet and lifestyle changes that may be required. Schedule a free discovery call with me to get started.