When it comes to the causes of Alzheimer’s disease, the mainstream focuses on just one thing: beta-amyloid plaques.
But this is where they get it all wrong.
As a regular reader, you know there’s more than one cause of this life-changing disease. Things like diet, where you live, your genetics, and even your lifestyle impact whether you get this memory-wasting disease or not.
And now we know yet another thing can trigger Alzheimer’s…
For decades, health experts have known that viral infections can significantly impact your brain. Look at COVID-19, for example. Just last month, I told you about how this viral infection can increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
And now we know COVID-19 isn’t the only virus that can harm your memory.
You see, new research shows that ANY viral infection of the nose could put you on the path to Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s take a closer look…
The Nose-Brain Connection
In a recent study, researchers from the University of Colorado School of Medicine examined the brain tissue of six post-mortem volunteers with Alzheimer’s disease and brain tissue from a group without Alzheimer’s Disease.
They found a high level of viral infection and inflammation markers (such that are present in a sinus infection) in the olfactory bulbs – the part of the brain responsible for smell – of the Alzheimer’s group. This is a significant discovery because the olfactory carries information to the hippocampus – your brain’s memory center.
And there’s more startling news…
The researchers also found that viruses can alter myelin – a protective fatty substance that shields nerves and allows electrical signals to be sent smoothly – in the olfactory bulb. This means viruses can impact your cognition by scrambling signals in your brain.
“We know that one of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease is losing the sense of smell,” said the study’s lead author Andrew Bubak, Ph.D., assistant research professor in the division of neurology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. “The whole olfactory pathway goes to the hippocampus. If you decrease the signaling along that pathway then you get less signaling to the hippocampus. If you don’t use it, you lose it.”1
Protect Your Brain And Boost Your Immunity
So, what does this mean for you?
Well, it certainly doesn’t mean you have to live the rest of your life in fear of getting a viral infection. There is help. First off, take reasonable precautions to prevent them.
Things like washing your hands and wearing a mask in crowded places can help you cut your risk of getting an infection. (And we’ve already been doing these things for three years!)
Another thing to consider is getting your vitamin D levels checked.
The Power Of Vitamin D
This simple vitamin greatly impacts your immune system and can help you fight off infection of any kind—among many other things.2 The only problem?
Many people are deficient in this nutrient. Especially since the conventional experts’ recommended vitamin D levels are woefully inadequate. Instead, maintaining a blood level between 50 ng/mL and 80 ng/mL is a better choice for your health, although some doctors suggest vitamin D blood levels as high as 80ng/mL to 100ng/mL.
In an interview, one doctor who has measured the vitamin D levels of hundreds of patients told us it’s extremely rare to see a patient with 60 ng/mL of vitamin D. Almost all of us are well below that.
Personally, I think everyone can benefit from a good daily supplement of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, the most absorbable form). That’s why our sister company, Green Valley Natural Solutions, developed two of its leading anti-aging formulas with a healthy dose of vitamin D3. I’m talking about Genesis, which promotes the health of cellular telomeres that are linked to longevity, and Iuvenis, which supports strong blood flow and circulation for healthier aging.
And If You Get A Cold Or Other Virus?
One of the best things you can do when you get sick is to help keep your sinuses clear of debris by using a neti pot rinse and/or a simple saline solution in your nose at least once a day. This can help wash away bacteria, as well as help clear your airways and sinus cavities of mucus for easier breathing.
I also have a friend who swears by colloidal silver when it comes to healing sinus infections. She mixes a few drops with a simple saline rinse and, using a medicine dropper, tilts her head back and drops it into her nose, allowing the mixture to reach deep into her sinus cavities. In her experience, this has helped her clear a sinus infection or two as well as avoid them when she falls ill with a cold or flu.
Protect Your Memory
Finally, do what you can to protect your memory against Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. That includes eating a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, lean meat, and good fats. Avoid sugar, processed foods, and large amounts of alcohol. Exercise regularly, manage your stress level and get regular sleep. These simple steps can go a long way in shoring up your memory for years to come.
