Iron in your supplements. Copper in your water. Aluminum in antacids. Metals make their way into our bodies in a variety of ways. That can be bad news, considering the growing number of studies linking high levels of them to Alzheimer's disease.
As we age, our bodies don't always properly regulate and store certain metals, which can then end up in areas of the brain where they shouldn't be, says Dr. Ashley Bush, of the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in Melbourne, Australia. Once in the body, they react with oxygen to produce free radicals that damage brain cells.
Change your diet to include vitamin E and reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease, as well as other ways to combat the disease.
High levels of this metal plus a high-fat diet were associated with mental declines equal to aging 19 years, according to one study. (A blood test can assess your levels.)
• Try copper-free vitamins.
• If you have copper pipes, consider a reverse-osmosis water filter.
Alzheimer's risk may increase with high or low levels of this metal.
• Consider an iron-free multi, unless you have a deficiency.
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High levels can speed mental decline.
• Try a reverse-osmosis filter if your local water report shows aluminum.
• Avoid antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Copper is a necessary nutrient but may be messing with your brain. Read on to find out what this research means for you.