Brain starvation has been discussed on numerous occasions in this blog. What it means is that the brain doesn't get enough of the proper nutrients for optimal function. In this case, we are referring to the primary brain fuel glucose (the "sugar" that is measured in the blood when blood sugar tests are performed). This is important because when brain cells (or neurons as they are called by medical doctors) don't receive enough glucose to fuel their metabolic needs, certain adverse consequences occur.

One of these is an increase in the production of the sticky clumps of proteins in the brain called beta-amyloid fibrils, which turn into senile plaques -- the postulated culprits behind the development of Alzheimer disease. When they build up, inflammation develops that leads to the loss of neuronal function and ultimately death of neurons throughout the brain. This is what causes memory loss, confusion, difficulty thinking and even behavioral changes.

Most currently available drugs that treat this horrible disease don't address this critical issue and, in part, because of this they are not very effective. However, there is an alternative approach that we have talked about previously that can offer help. By being turned into ketone bodies (an additional type of brain fuel), compounds called medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) can "bridge the energy gap" caused by the fall off in the ability of the brain to effectively utilize glucose. This is especially helpful in persons on insulin therapy for Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes. In this condition, insulin overdoses can lead to confusion and fuzzy thinking due to the excessive fall in blood glucose (and subsequently brain glucose) they cause. MCTs in the diet can ameliorate these symptoms.

A new medical food (an FDA-regulated food like product) called Axona has recently been released by the company Accera for the nutritional treatment of Alzheimer disease. It is a powder that is prescribed by a physician and is administered once a day -- usually in the morning -- after being dissolved in water. It is a product that contains MCTs and generates ketone bodies when it is consumed. It has been tested and shown to improve cognition in this group of patients. The only significant side effects are related to mild abdominal distress and it may be used safely with other Alzheimer medications. The web site for further information is www.about-axona.com.