Can Alzheimer’s be reversed?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that results in dementia, which causes memory loss and progressively worsening symptoms over time. Worldwide, Alzheimer’s disease affects about 50 million people. At present, no treatments exist that reverse or stop the progression of the disease, but researchers are constantly working on both a cure and treatments that will prevent, stop, or reverse the progression.

Most experts agree that Alzheimer’s is caused by a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors. Researchers believe that the disease is caused by the buildup of proteins in areas of the brain. These protein deposits are called plaques and tangles. As these proteins interfere with cell activity, cells become unhealthy and die. Over time this results in the loss of cognitive ability and eventually atrophy or shrinking of the brain. Most experts advise that some evidence shows that promoting healthy aging with a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep is important, as age is a risk factor for the disease. Some research has shown that risk of or diagnosis with cardiovascular problems can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s, so prevention measures for cardiovascular disease may also have a role in Alzheimer’s prevention.

In 2019, at the University of Southern California, a study of mice with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms that were genetically programmed to develop the disease utilized compounds in green tea and carrots reversed symptoms the mice were experiencing. The researchers believe that the therapies used in the mice may have prevented the proteins that gather in the brains of those with Alzheimer’s from forming.

It is that protein build-up that causes the death of brain cells and results in memory loss and other cognitive impairments for those with Alzheimer’s. The study's authors emphasized that treatments and discoveries from mice studies don’t always translate into treatments that will work with humans and that more research is needed. Studies of this nature are ongoing at various universities and research laboratories in the United States and abroad, with more research needed.

Other studies have focused on using medications to target the buildup of the specific proteins related to brain cell death in Alzheimer’s patients. Still, to date, these drugs remain in small trials, without much data to demonstrate their effectiveness.

Alzheimer’s treatment today largely focuses on treating symptoms rather than the underlying disease. This may include medications for memory, behavioral interventions for cognitive and behavioral symptoms, treatments for improving sleep, and preventative or supportive measures that involve nutrition and lifestyle recommendations. Because research is ongoing and information can change rapidly, it is always important to talk with a trusted medical doctor about treatments for Alzheimer’s.