Neurodegenerative Diseases: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Neurodegenerative diseases include a set of pathologies marked by the progressive deterioration of neurons. These cells, essential for brain and nervous system functioning, regenerate very little, making their loss often irreversible. Among the most frequent diseases are Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. • Alzheimer's Disease: Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein neurofibrillary tangles. It begins with short-term memory issues, followed by a progressive decline in cognitive functions, speech, and decision-making abilities. Mechanisms include brain inflammation, oxidative stress, and synaptic loss, particularly in the hippocampus. • Parkinson's Disease: This disease affects dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and walking difficulties. It also includes non-motor symptoms like depression and sleep disorders. Deposits of α-synuclein protein (Lewy bodies) play a central role. • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Known as Charcot's disease, it affects motor neurons, causing progressive muscle weakness and paralysis. Genetic mutations, notably C9orf72 and SOD1 genes, contribute to nerve cell degeneration. • Frontotemporal Dementias: These encompass disorders causing degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes, affecting social behaviors, language, and emotions. They are characterized by TDP-43 and FUS protein deposits. • Huntington's Chorea: A rare genetic disease, it manifests with uncontrolled movements (chorea), psychiatric disorders, and cognitive decline. The mutation of the HTT gene leads to a toxic accumulation of huntingtin protein in the brain. Aging is the main common risk factor for these pathologies. Mechanisms involve the accumulation of misfolded proteins, chronic inflammation, and an alteration of cerebral detoxification systems. Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or viral infections can increase the risk, as can genetic predispositions.