Reversing Alzheimer’s Symptoms: A Possible Treatment for Dementia

In a groundbreaking new documentary titled “The Last Alzheimer’s Patient,” a woman named Cici Zerbe claims to have reversed her symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease through simple lifestyle changes. Zerbe, who was diagnosed with the disease five years ago, credits her astonishing turnaround to following a plant-based diet, engaging in regular exercise, seeking group support, practicing yoga, and meditation.

CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta catches up with Zerbe in the documentary, where she reveals that her symptoms have been reversed after participating in a clinical trial led by Dr. Dean Ornish. The trial focused on the effects of intensive lifestyle changes on the progression of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease.

Zerbe expresses that she feels “much better” than she did five years ago, attributing her improvement to meditation, diet, and exercise. She shares with Dr. Gupta that she has made significant changes to her lifestyle, including cutting out unhealthy foods like breaded veal cutlets. Her husband, John, is amazed at her progress, stating, “I figured by this time she’d be in a home.”

The documentary also highlights a peer-reviewed study set to be published in June 2024 in ‘Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy,’ which examines the relationship between intensive lifestyle changes and the risk of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease. The study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that healthy lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on cognitive health.

Researchers have identified five key habits that provide cognitive benefits, even in individuals showing early signs of dementia. These habits include not smoking, engaging in moderate to vigorous exercise for at least 150 minutes a week, limiting alcohol consumption, stimulating the brain through activities like reading and playing games, and following a healthy diet.

The study, published in the journal JAMA Neurology, involved autopsies on 586 participants who lived to an average age of 91. These individuals were categorized as living a low-risk or healthy lifestyle based on their adherence to the five key habits. The results showed that those who followed a healthier lifestyle had better cognitive function and lower levels of beta-amyloid plaque, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the key components of a healthy lifestyle highlighted in the study is the MIND diet, which combines elements of the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. The MIND diet emphasizes plant-based foods, especially berries and leafy greens, while limiting the consumption of animal products and saturated fats.

While the study’s observational nature prevents establishing a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it adds to the growing body of literature suggesting that lifestyle decisions can play a significant role in cognitive health. Zerbe’s story serves as a powerful example of how simple lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease.

As the documentary “The Last Alzheimer’s Patient” sheds light on Zerbe’s remarkable journey, it also underscores the importance of adopting healthy habits to potentially slow down the progression of cognitive decline and improve overall brain health.