Could acupuncture delay dementia? To find out, Chinese researchers did a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing acupuncture and medical treatment for mild cognitive impairment with forgetfulness.
Does Acupuncture Slow the Development of Dementia?
Their answer is a qualified yes. They found five trials with more than 500 research subjects all together.
The statistical review showed that those who had received acupuncture had better scores on cognitive tests compared to those given the prescription drug nimodipine. That was used as an “active control,” although it is not approved to delay dementia in the United States. (In this country, the FDA has approved it to prevent bleeding in the brain–“subarachnoid hemorrhage.”)
The scientists note, though, that the included studies had methodological flaws and call for more rigorously designed research.
Acupuncture in Medicine, online Aug 4, 2016
Try to Delay Dementia with Exercise:
There is more evidence for another way to delay dementia: keep moving! Aerobic physical activity appears to protect the brain.
Nearly 900 people have been participating in the Cardiovascular Health Study for 30 years. Researchers tested these volunteers periodically through a battery of cognitive function assessments. The participants,whose average age was 78, also answered questionnaires about their physical activity and had MRI scans of their brains.
Physical Activity Affects Brain Structure:
Those who racked up the most physical activity had larger brain volumes in their frontal, parietal and temporal lobes including the memory center called the hippocampus. These individuals were 50 percent less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease during the study.
Walking, dancing, swimming or gardening all count as physical activity. People with mild cognitive impairment also did better on their tests if they increased their physical activity. When it comes to energy expenditure, it seems that what helps the heart also benefits the brain.
Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, March. 11, 2016
If you would like more information about this topic, you might wish to listen to our Show #1042 about acupuncture or our Show #994 about Alzheimer’s disease.
