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deficiency

Neuroscientist shares 3 major risk factors for developing Alzheimer's disease: Vitamin deficiency, inflammation, more
Lifestyle

Neuroscientist shares 3 major risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s disease: Vitamin deficiency, inflammation, more

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Alzheimer’s and dementia are often thought of as conditions that strike only in old age – but the groundwork for these diseases can be laid decades earlier. Certain risk factors and lifestyle habits that seem harmless in youth can silently increase the likelihood of developing cognitive decline later in life.

Your every day lifestyle can affect cognitive health.(Pixabay)

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Robert Love, a neuroscientist specialising in Alzheimer’s prevention, has highlighted three surprising yet significant risk factors that are closely linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. In an Instagram video posted on November 10, the neuroscientist explains how vitamin deficiencies, poor sleep, and chronic inflammation can act as hidden triggers for dementia, ultimately increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin D deficiency

According to Robert, vitamin D deficiency is one of the surprising yet major risk factors for getting Alzheimer’s. He explains, “Most of us don’t get enough vitamin D because we spend most of our time inside. So, you can get 20 minutes of sunshine exposure a day, or you can take a vitamin D supplement. I do both.”

Inadequate sleep

Poor sleep isn’t just about feeling tired – it’s one of the major contributors to a wide range of health problems and a significant risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Robert highlights, “Sleep is when you repair your brain. It’s when you rewire memories, wire up new memories, and it’s when you get a literal brain washing with the glymphatic system, which is basically like the lymphatic system for your brain.” He recommends making sure you limit your screen exposure at least an hour before bedtime by turning off your TV and phone, and prioritising at least eight hours of good sleep.

These are the risk factors outlined by Robert.(Image generated via ChatGPT)
These are the risk factors outlined by Robert.(Image generated via ChatGPT)

Inflammation

Inflammation is another key risk factor linked to Alzheimer’s, and Robert emphasises that the process can begin as early as 30 years before any visible signs of dementia appear. He explains, “Inflammation is caused by a variety of things – stress, bad diet, sedentary lifestyle. So the best way to reduce your inflammation is to avoid ultra-processed food, spend time with people you love and spend time outside in nature.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist shares 8 early signs of nutrient deficiency: ‘If you constantly feel cold…’
Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist shares 8 early signs of nutrient deficiency: ‘If you constantly feel cold…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Feeling tired all the time, having dull skin, brittle nails, or constant brain fog? These could be your body’s way of signalling a nutritional deficiency. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, explains in his October 20 Instagram post 8 subtle signs that indicate your body might be missing essential vitamins and minerals and how to fix them before they affect your overall health. (Also read: AIIMS trained gastroenterologist says if you love your liver, you’ll want to try this ‘matcha chia pudding recipe’ )

Dr. Sethi highlights signs of vitamin deficiencies, including fatigue and dull skin.(Freepik)

1. You’re tired all the time, even after sleeping

Low levels of iron, vitamin B12, or magnesium could be to blame. “These nutrients fuel your metabolism and oxygen delivery. Without them, fatigue becomes constant,” he explains.

2. Brittle nails or hair loss

This is often linked to deficiencies in zinc, biotin, protein, or iron. “When nutrients run low, your body prioritises vital organs over hair and nails,” notes Dr Sethi.

3. Always cold, even when others aren’t

If you constantly feel cold, it may point to low iodine or iron levels, both crucial for thyroid function and red blood cell production. “Chronic cold hands or feet are red flags you shouldn’t ignore,” he adds.

4. Muscle cramps or twitching

“Low magnesium, potassium, or calcium levels are common causes, especially if your gut isn’t absorbing nutrients properly,” Dr Sethi says. “Think beyond hydration when cramps hit often.”

5. Brain fog or trouble focusing

You might be low in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B12, or choline. “These nutrients are key for neurotransmitter function and overall brain performance,” he explains.

Dr. Sethi highlights signs of nutritional deficiencies like fatigue and skin issues, suggesting low levels of vitamins and minerals.(Google Gemini)
Dr. Sethi highlights signs of nutritional deficiencies like fatigue and skin issues, suggesting low levels of vitamins and minerals.(Google Gemini)

6. Easy bruising or bleeding gums

According to Dr Sethi, “These are classic signs of vitamin C or K deficiency. Vitamin C strengthens blood vessels, while vitamin K supports proper clotting.”

7. Cracked corners of your mouth (Angular Cheilitis)

“This often signals low B vitamins, especially B2 and B6 or iron deficiency,” says Dr Sethi. “If it keeps returning, get checked.”

8. Loss of appetite or weird cravings

“Craving ice or dirt can point to iron or zinc deficiency, while low hunger might be linked to poor gut signalling or lack of B12,” he notes.

Dr Sethi concludes, “Don’t wait for blood work to tell you something’s off. Your body gives signals early, listen to them and nourish yourself well.”

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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Stanford gastroenterologist shares 3 things women should know about iron deficiency: ‘The first sign of cancer, ulcers’
Lifestyle

Stanford gastroenterologist shares 3 things women should know about iron deficiency: ‘The first sign of cancer, ulcers’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Dr Wendi, a Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, shared crucial information regarding iron deficiency, particularly for women under 40, in a recent Instagram post. She highlighted 3 important things women should know. Let’s find out:

Up to 40% of premenopausal women may have undiagnosed iron deficiency. (Freepik)

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Iron deficiency in women

In the post shared on September 1, Dr Wendi emphasised that iron deficiency is a condition which is often underdiagnosed in women. Furthermore, she offered advice on optimising iron supplement absorption, avoiding certain beverages, and the importance of medical consultation for iron deficiency anaemia.

Sharing the post, Dr Wendi wrote, “Iron deficiency is one of the first signs of gut issues, including cancer, ulcers or inflammation. Despite how common iron deficiency is among young women, we don’t talk about how to properly evaluate and treat iron deficiency.” Let’s find out what the 3 important reminders which Dr Wendi suggested are:

3 things that every woman should know about iron deficiency

Dr Wendi stressed that every woman under the age of 40 needs to know these 3 facts about iron deficiency:

1. It is underdiagnosed

Firstly, iron deficiency is way underdiagnosed. According to the gastroenterologist, research estimates that up to 40 percent of premenopausal women have iron deficiency. “So, look out for the symptoms and consider getting tested,” she advised

2. Take supplements every other day and avoid tea or coffee

Secondly, if you are taking iron supplements, you should be taking them every other day instead of every day to maximise absorption, Dr Wendi advised. “You should also be taking your iron supplements on an empty stomach and avoid coffee and tea within 1 hour of taking your supplements,” she suggested.

3. Consult a doctor

Lastly, she said, “If you have iron deficiency anaemia, guidelines recommend at least discussing an endoscopy and colonoscopy with your doctor.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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