Dr Marilyn Glenville explained: “People with Alzheimer’s [a form of dementia] have been found to have a shortage of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.” The neurotransmitter is said to be “critical” for a healthy brain. “Choline is a starting block for acetylcholine,” Dr Glenville continued. “And is contained in high amounts in egg yolks.” Therefore, egg yolks are one ingredient people can incorporate into their diet to help stave off the brain condition.
Amyloid plaque
The Alzheimer’s Association explained that “plaques form when proteins pieces called amyloid clump together”.
The charity continued: “The small clumps may block cell-to-cell signalling at synapses.
“They may also activate immune system cells that trigger inflammation and devour disabled cells.
“Plaques tend to spread through the Corte in a predictable pattern as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.”
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In the earliest stages of the disease, before symptoms can be detected, plaques form in areas of the brain involved in learning and memory, as well as thinking and planning.
When the disease progresses moderately, those affected begin to experience problems with memory and thinking skills that interfere with work or social life.
Confusion may arise around handling money, challenges with expressing themselves could come into play, and issues with organising their thoughts become more apparent.
“Many people with Alzheimer’s are first diagnosed in these stages,” the charity said.
As Alzheimer’s progresses even further, people may experience changes in personality.
Furthermore, behaviour changes can occur as well as difficulty with recognising loved ones.
Plaques can also spread to areas of the brain involved with speaking and understanding speech, as well as the area where a person is able to make sense of their body in relation to objects around them.
Adopting a “heart-healthy diet” that is low in saturated fats is one of the best ways to reduce dementia risk.
Such diet incorporates nuts, grains, fruit, and vegetables, and herbs.
“Limit red meat,” the charity advises, alongside replacing butter with healthy fats, such as olive oil.
The charity also suggests eating fish and poultry “at least twice a week”.
Furthermore, it is helpful to limit the use of salt in any of your foods.