Vitamin E helps increase the life expectancy of people with Alzheimer's disease

According to a recent study, people with Alzheimer's disease (dementia or dementia due to brain damage of the cortex) taking vitamin E may live longer than those who do not take vitamin E.

To conduct the study, the researchers followed 847 people with Alzheimer's disease for an average of 5 years. About two-thirds of them use 1,000 units of international vitamin E twice a day with Alzheimer's drugs (cholinesterase inhibitors). Less than 10% use only vitamin E and about 15% do not take vitamin E.

The study found that 26% of people taking vitamin E - with or without cholinesterase inhibitors - were less likely to die than those who did not use vitamin E.

Dr. Valory Pavlik, author of the study, collaborated with the Alzheimer's Center for Memory Disorders and Research at Bayor College of Medicine in Houston, TX, and a member of the Neuroscience Academy. United States - said:

'Previously, it has been shown that vitamin E can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in a fairly severe degree. We also now show that vitamin E can increase the lifespan of Alzheimer's patients. This is especially important, because recent studies in heart disease patients have suspected whether vitamin E is good for survival. "

In addition to vitamin E supplements, some vegetable oils, nuts and green leafy vegetables are the main food sources of vitamin E. (Photo: adam.about.com)

Moreover, the study also showed that vitamin E plus cholinesterase inhibitors may be healthier than just taking 1 of 2 substances . Pavlik said 'The results showed that those who took inhibitors without taking vitamin E did not survive. More research is needed to determine why.

In addition to vitamin E supplements, some vegetable oils, nuts and leafy greens are the main sources of vitamin E. Some of the American fortified cereals also contain vitamin E. Pavlik. 'The daily amount of vitamin E used by patients in this study is much higher than the recommended dose for the entire population today.'

This study was presented at the annual meeting to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the American Academy of Neurology in Chicago from April 12-19, 2008.