Neurological Disorders

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Executive Summary

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Write an executive summary in the form of a blog article on the topic of "Research into Chinese medicine treatment for Neurological Disorders" summarising the research below and using language that can be easily understood by patients and avoiding medical jargon using a professional and caring tone of voice.

Write an executive summary in the form of a blog article on the topic of "Researched Chinese medicine treatments for Neurological Disorders" summarising the research below in an objective and easy to understand way, and using language that can be easily understood by patients. Group the article into Chinese medicine treatments first, followed by nutrition and other treatments. Avoid using medical jargon and use a professional and caring tone of voice.

Write me a concise but easy to understand executive summary on the topic of "Chinese medicine treatments for Neurological Disorders" based on the following research that I will give you. Your summary should be 2 paragraphs long in Australian English spelling and include references to the studies.

A Experimental Study published in 2023 in the journal Journal of Applied Toxicology found that Virgin coconut oil shows potential therapeutic promise against Alzheimer's disease by reducing key markers and enhancing neurotransmitter parameters. In this study, the SH-SY5Y cell lines were cultured in its regular growth medium which was then differentiated by reducing its fetal bovine serum content and adding retinoic acid. Further, brain-derived neurotrophic factor was added in unison with retinoic acid, completing the differentiation process by the seventh day. The study groups comprised of a control group, groups that received virgin coconut oil, Aluminum, both or neither, an Alzheimer model group, and a group replicating the Alzheimer model exposed to Aluminum and virgin coconut oil. The measurable aspects in this study included specific indicators of Alzheimer's disease like hyperphosphorylated Tau protein, amyloid beta 1-40 peptide, and amyloid precursor protein, oxidative stress parameters, and neurotransmitter-related parameters. In the results, it was revealed that virgin coconut oil was successful in reducing levels of amyloid beta and hyperphosphorylated Tau protein in the groups. This composition also seemed to decrease oxidative stress levels associated with Alzheimer's disease, delivering improvement in neurotransmitter parameters, which supports the hypothesis that virgin coconut oil can be therapeutic against this progressive neurological disorder.

A Review Article published in 2022 in the journal International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that Magnesium, essential for harmonising nerve signals and preserving the blood-brain barrier, may be linked to neurodegenerative disorders when its balance is disrupted. The researchers performed a narrative review, beginning with a quick overview of the role of magnesium in the brain. Magnesium is crucial for healthy nerve signal transmission and the upkeep of the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood. Then, they discussed evidence suggesting a connection between disrupted magnesium balance and a variety of neurodegenerative disorders. In the discussion of the results, it was posited that a deficiency in magnesium might contribute to low-grade systemic inflammation, which is common in many illnesses. Specifically, they argued that such inflammation in the brain is a characteristic feature of neurodegenerative diseases. The review found evidence that disruptions in the body's magnesium balance could be associated with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's diseases.

A Review Article published in 2022 in the journal Molecules found that Green tea's catechins demonstrate therapeutic effects against neurodegenerative diseases via anti-inflammatory, antioxidant actions, and activating diverse brain cellular pathways. The research primarily evaluates the effect of polyphenolic compounds found in green tea, known as catechins, on neurodegenerative diseases. By conducting several interventional and observational studies on humans, the research explores the anti-cancer, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties of these compounds. The biological, pharmacological, antioxidant, and metal chelating abilities of catechins, particularly their influence on different cellular pathways within the brain, are intensively studied. The results elucidate that catechins exhibit multiple neuroprotective effects. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to inhibit excessive production of cytokines, and inflammatory pathways, while also controlling metal ions and free radicals. Researchers have further established that catechins may curb the phosphorylation of the tau protein and aggregation of amyloid beta, both key markers in neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, these compounds show potential in reducing alpha-synuclein levels and augmenting dopamine levels. Hence, they significantly contribute to the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and cognitive deficits.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Frontiers in Neurology found that Acupuncture, specifically electroacupuncture and bee venom acupuncture, shows promise as a growing therapeutic approach in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease. To explore global trends in acupuncture research for Parkinson's Disease over recent decades, data was gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The analysis period covered 2000 through 2021, with the use of CiteSpace and VOSviewer software to review key factors such as the number of publications, countries offering significant contributions, key institutions and researchers, and recurring research keywords. Five years of research indicated a general upward trend in publications dedicated to this subject. It was observed that China, South Korea, and the USA are the predominant contributors, with Kyung Hee University and Capital Medical University recognized as the most productive institutions. Hi-Joon Park has significantly contributed to the field of study, with an emphasis on "electroacupuncture" and "bee venom acupuncture" as emerging research focus points. An analysis of the gathered information revealed that acupuncture therapy for Parkinson's Disease has an upward trajectory in scientific interest and research. Within the body of global research, specific therapeutic approaches such as electroacupuncture and bee venom acupuncture have gained prominence. It became clear that collaboration and open communication across different nations and organizations could benefit the global development and application of these promising treatments. The non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, the development of models that accurately reflect these symptoms in humans, and the efficacy of potential therapies have taken center stage in the realm of acupuncture research.

A Review Article published in 2022 in the journal Journal of Future Foods found that Coconut oil has potential as a nutritional supplement for treating Alzheimer’s disease, due to its medium chain fatty acids and antioxidant properties. The study examined the unique chemical composition of coconut oil that is enriched with medium chain fatty acids, unlike long-chain fatty acids. This distinction matters because these medium chain fatty acids have a specific digestion and metabolism pathway—they bypass the lymphatic system and go straight to the liver through the portal vein. This unique attribute in absorption and metabolism allows these fats to readily form ketone bodies, which are an efficient energy source for brains, especially those experiencing cognitive impairments like Alzheimer's disease. As for the discussion of the results, the findings showed that medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil get metabolized and absorbed to mitigate the severity of certain physiological risk factors—elevated LDL levels, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance—all risk factors that contribute to the prevalence and incidence of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, coconut oil contains many polyphenolic compounds that serve as antioxidants, combating oxidative stress and inflammation—in turn, potentially downregulating the etiology of Alzheimer's disease. The antioxidant capacity, however, can vary depending on the processing conditions used in extraction techniques of coconut oil.

A Review Article published in 2022 in the journal Reference Series in Phytochemistry found that Coconut water possesses unique compound profiles that imbue it with a broad spectrum of medical properties, incorporating aspects of nutrition, pharmacology, and disease prevention. The study utilized comprehensive analysis to assess the chemical profile of coconut water, identifying a range of components including phytohormones, enzymes, antioxidant compounds, vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds. These components are known to contribute to the water's biological activity and pharmacological effects, thereby enabling a raft of medicinal properties inherent to coconut water. The water was found to feature anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, rejuvenating, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, and diuretic properties. An examination of the therapeutic effects of coconut water revealed a significant impact on gastric dysfunction, dysentery, and child malnutrition alongside notable capabilities to manage hypertension. The water was found to promote exercise performance, reduce swelling, dissolve kidney stones, improve kidney function, improve digestion, relieve constipation, reduce the risk of heart disease, lower high blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. Consumption of tender coconut water was specifically found to reduce the risk of heart disease, help prevent Alzheimer’s disease pathologies and prevent osteoporosis in experimental animals. The unique nutritional profile of coconut water was also found to provide it with the capacity to balance body chemistry and fight cancer.

A Cohort Study published in 2021 in the journal Aging found that Regular consumption of chocolate relates to lowered risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in non-smokers. The study traps a population-based cohort of 91,891 participants aged between 55-74 years from across the United States. The consumption of chocolate by these participants is gauged through a food frequency questionnaire. The Cox regression model was utilized to generate risk estimates. In an average monitoring period of 13.5 years, 19,586 all-cause deaths were recorded. In the discussion of the outcomes, the study reveals an inverse correlation between regular chocolate intake and all-cause mortality. This advantage was more significant in those participants who never smoked compared to current or ex-smokers. A stronger inverse association was found for deaths from cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease. A nonlinear dose-response pattern was discovered for all-cause and cardiovascular deaths, with the least risk seen at a chocolate intake of 0.7 and 0.6 servings per week, respectively.

A Review Article published in 2021 in the journal Neural Plasticity found that Acupuncture may slow Parkinson's disease progression by protecting dopaminergic neurons and regulating neurotransmitter balance, potentially reducing dependence on medication. The study summarizes various clinical trials that explore the impact of acupuncture on Parkinson's disease. It predominantly focuses on how acupuncture, when combined with anti-Parkinson's medication, helps in improving the symptoms of the disease. Furthermore, it delves into the protective role of acupuncture on dopaminergic neurons in the brain through various physiological pathways including antioxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. The abstract also discusses how acupuncture could potentially modulate the neurotransmitter balance in the patient's basal ganglia circuit. The results inferred from the review of the current studies show possible benefits of acupuncture in managing Parkinson's disease. During the early stages of the disease in particular, acupuncture demonstrated potential in reducing the neurodegeneration of the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. This could eventually regulate the balance of the dopaminergic circuit in the brains of these patients. This regulation and neuroprotective role suggest that acupuncture could potentially delay the progression of Parkinson's disease. These potential benefits could reduce the patient's dependence on medication for managing their symptoms.

A Review Article published in 2021 in the journal Foods found that Fermented soybean products alleviate and possibly prevent neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The study involved the fermentation of cooked soybeans with specified bacteria and fungi species, a process known to produce a range of bioactive compounds. These unique compounds, which are most often beneficial to health, are contained in fermented soybean products that are a staple in East Asian diets. In analyzing the results, the focus was on the potential of these fermented soy foods and their components in managing neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, the findings suggested a significant preventive and curative effect of these products on such ailments as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The paper, therefore, presents fermented soy foods as potentially reliable natural solutions to these neurodegenerative conditions.

A Systematic Review published in 2021 in the journal Annals of Medicine found that The existing evidence, although with low level of confidence, suggests that walnut intake may have a beneficial effect on cognition-related outcomes, including cognitive function, mood, and stroke. The existing evidence, although with low level of confidence, suggests that walnut intake may have a beneficial effect on cognition-related outcomes, including cognitive function, mood, and stroke. Limitations in study design and comparability render the available evidence insufficient to draw a firm conclusion regarding the effects of walnut on cognition in adults. High quality studies and standardized interventions and measurement tools are necessary to determine the role of walnut intake in cognitive health.

A Review Article published in 2020 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Tian Ma, a traditional Chinese medicine, shows promise as a complementary therapy for aging-related diseases, including Alzheimer's and cerebrocardiovascular diseases. This study utilized previous research to methodically analyze the efficacy and safety of Tian Ma in treating aging-related diseases. Investigations spanned across various well-structured disease models, with particularly close attention paid to Alzheimer's Disease. The study trialed not just on its raw form, but also explored how it performs within different herbal preparations and as pure natural extracts. The study's findings indicate that Tian Ma might present a viable alternative treatment for aging-related cerebrocardiovascular diseases and dementia. Specifically, its promising attributes were most noticeable in the context of complementary therapy for Alzheimer's Disease. The potential effectiveness of Tian Ma seems to be maintained across the various preparations, whether in herbal mixtures or as a pure natural product. The study thus concludes on a hopeful note regarding the use of Tian Ma in combatting debilitating age-linked conditions.

A Review Article published in 2020 in the journal Frontiers in Neurology found that Acupuncture may be a clinically effective and safe treatment for Parkinson's disease. In this study, a thorough search was done in eight different databases to find systematic reviews and meta-analyses that investigated the potential benefits of acupuncture for treating Parkinson's disease. The methodological quality of these collected reviews was assessed using the Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 checklist, and the quality of the evidence provided by the reviews was evaluated with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation criteria. Of the 11 reviews analysed, all were regarded as very low-quality studies on the Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 checklist. However, despite the limited quality, these reviews provide a narrative analysis that suggests acupuncture may offer a safe and effective treatment for Parkinson's disease. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation scale categorized the evidence quality as very low to moderate. Despite the overall low evidence and methodological quality, it is highlighted that acupuncture may still hold potential as a treatment option for Parkinson's disease. It's also noted that the results should be interpreted with caution due to the low quality of the studies included.

A Review Article published in 2020 in the journal International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that Regular coffee consumption, due to its bioactive compounds, may have protective effects against chronic disorders and certain neurodegenerative conditions. The paper evaluates the neuroprotective potential of the main bioactive elements in coffee: caffeine, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, trigonelline, kahweol, and cafestol. The analysis is focused on the coffee beverage as a complex mixture of these bioactive compounds. The comprehensive study includes in vitro and in vivo preclinical tests to determine the specific health benefits each of these compounds can offer. The results indicate that regular coffee intake may have defensive effects against a variety of enduring disorders; including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some forms of cancer. Additionally, an interesting correlation is found between coffee consumption and a lower risk of developing certain neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. The study also highlights that regular coffee intake could possibly lower the risk of stroke. However, the study mentions that the mechanisms enabling these effects are yet to be fully understood.

A Cohort Study published in 2020 in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that Depressed patients who received acupuncture treatment showed a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study was retrospective in nature and was based on data sourced from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. An equal number of patients (9,189), with and without acupuncture treatment, were selected from the total 48,981 patients newly diagnosed with depression between 2000 and 2012. These study participants were matched 1:1 using the propensity score method. The incidence of Parkinson's disease in these two groups was compared using the Kaplan-Meier method and the difference was examined with a log-rank test. The severity of depression and specific acupoints used were not indicated. The results indicated a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease in patients who had undergone acupuncture treatment. Differences in age, sex, insurance amount, geographic region, urbanization levels, comorbidities, and drugs were taken into account. The cumulative effect was such that the incidence was significantly lower in the acupuncture cohort as compared to the non-acupuncture cohort.

A Experimental Study published in 2020 in the journal Bioorganic Chemistry found that Green tea polyphenolic compounds, (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC) and (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate (ECG), can diminish harmful Alzheimer's disease linked Aβ aggregates and ameliorate symptoms. Green tea compounds EGC and ECG were tested for their effects on Cu/Zn-induced or self-assembled Aβ aggregation involved in Alzheimer's disease. To do so, a combination of thioflavine T fluorescent spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, silver staining, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence assays were utilized. Findings indicate that these compounds bind mildly to Cu and Zn and reduce their caused or self-assembled Aβ aggregates. Moreover, these compounds were shown to manage neurotoxicity in mouse neuroblastoma Neuro-2a cells by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). From the findings, the EGC and ECG in green tea showed potential in reducing the toxicity of Aβ oligomers and fibrils which are heavily linked to Alzheimer's disease. Notably, ECG has the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier and reduce Aβ plaques within the mouse brain, showcasing its potential for neuron protection. This study highlights the potential of green tea - specifically, its polyphenolic compounds - in the prevention or reduction of Alzheimer's disease symptoms.

A Systematic Review published in 2020 in the journal Nutrients found that These reports suggest the benefits of a walnut-enriched diet in brain disorders and in other chronic diseases, due to the additive or synergistic effects of walnut components for protection against oxidative stress and inflammation in these diseases. Walnuts contain several components that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Animal and human studies from our and other groups suggest that supplementation with walnuts in the diet may improve cognition and reduce the risk and/or progression of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, several animal and human studies have suggested that walnuts may also decrease the risk or progression of other brain disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and depression, as well as of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Together, these reports suggest the benefits of a walnut-enriched diet in brain disorders and in other chronic diseases, due to the additive or synergistic effects of walnut components for protection against oxidative stress and inflammation in these diseases.

A Systematic Review published in 2019 in the journal Current Medical Science found that Acupuncture yielded positive results for Alzheimer's Disease as determined via clinical efficacy rate, Mini-Mental State Examination score, Ability of Daily Living Scale score and Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognition score. Eight databases were searched for articles published up to and including July 2017, and 13 studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were identified. The main outcomes assessed were clinical efficacy rate, Mini-Mental State Examination score, Ability of Daily Living Scale score, Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognition score, Hasegawa’s Dementia Scale (HDS) score, and adverse events. The methodological quality of the articles was assessed using Cochrane’s risk of bias. All the studies compared the efficacy of acupuncture with that of medication, and were published in Chinese journals. Meta-analysis revealed that acupuncture yielded positive results as determined via all the indexes scored except the HDS. Only one of the studies reported adverse events associated with acupuncture and medication. The rate of adverse events in the medication group was 13%. In most of the studies assessed in the current meta-analysis, acupuncture alone was better than conventional western medicines for the treatment of AD.

A Review Article published in 2019 in the journal The Lancet Neurology found that Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a valuable, holistic approach to Parkinson's disease prevention and treatment, offering another angle besides Western medicinal practices. The paper uses historical analysis to examine how Parkinson's disease-like symptoms were described and treated in ancient Chinese medical texts, with a focus on the theories of Yin-Yang imbalance and five-element theories, along with the use of various herbs, acupuncture and physical exercise. It draws from a range of historical periods, from as early as 425-221 BC up until the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD), discussing different traditional treatments like Zhenwu decoction, Gegen decoction, Jin Ya Wine, and Ding Zhen Pill. In discussing the results, the paper synthesizes these historical treatments with modern practices, pointing out that many traditional remedies, now updated with contemporary knowledge, continue to be used in China. These include the renamed Ding Zhen Decoction, dietary therapies, acupuncture, moxibustion, Tai Chi, and Qigong. It was found that these approaches could improve both motor and non-motor symptoms for patients with Parkinson's disease. Many of the ingredients in these treatments have bioactive molecules which have shown therapeutic benefits. In addition to treatment, the study also emphasizes the value of early disease prevention in line with TCM's approach, noting that certain behaviors typical of the tradition such as tea-drinking and physical exercises have been observed to offer a preventive effect for Parkinson's patients.

A Systematic Review published in 2019 in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Chinese herbal medicine in conjunction with conventional western medicine proved effective in improving symptoms in Parkinson's disease patients. The researchers carried out an extensive search of six databases up until September 2018 to gather relevant literature on the subject. The selection and extraction of data were in accordance with predetermined criteria. Two tools - A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE), were used to assess the methodological quality of the systematic reviews and the evidence quality of the primary outcomes respectively. The results of the study indicated that, in comparison with conventional western medicine alone, Chinese herbal Medicine (CHM) when used in conjunction with western medicine had a significant effect in improving the symptoms of Parkinson's disease patients. However, when used solely, CHM had no substantial impact. The adverse events were documented in nine out of eleven systematic reviews. In comparison with conventional western medicine, the CHM had generally fewer or milder side effects. But the researchers urged caution while considering the evidence due to certain flaws in the methodology.

A Review Article published in 2019 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Evidence indicates that acupuncture treatment may be of benefit in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease. The pathophysiology of these disorders may be associated with glutamate dysregulation, marked by a high rate of glutamate release and elevated expression of glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in the CNS. The ability of acupuncture stimulation to modulate glutamate receptor and EAAT expression suggests that the treatment effects of acupuncture are underpinned by its intervention in the dysregulated glutamate system. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to clarify the possible mechanisms of acupuncture in these neuropsychiatric disorders and to establish protocols for treatment guidelines.

A Systematic Review published in 2018 in the journal Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that Chinese herbal medicine as adjuvant therapy exerted an additive anti-vascular dementia benefit on Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. Meta-analysis showed that Chinese herbal medicine (CMH) for vascular dementia could improve Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Activities of Daily Living, Hasegawa’s dementia scale, and clinical effective rate but had statistically similar effect based on Blessed Behavior Scale (BBS) outcome when compared with WCTs. When compared with placebo, CHMs were more beneficial in improving MMSE but showed no significant difference in BBS scores. CHM as adjuvant therapy exerted an additive anti-vascular dementia benefit on MMSE scores. The participants of CHM group had fewer adverse events than that of the placebo group or WCT group. The findings of the present study support, at least to an extent, that CHM can be recommended for routine use for treatment of vascular dementia.

A Review Article published in 2015 in the journal Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that Acupuncture, as an adjuvant therapy or monotherapy, can protect and restore dopaminergic neurons, bearing positive implications for the Parkinson's disease treatment. Methodologically, animal studies were used to investigate the effects of acupuncture treatment on Parkinson's disease. An examination was conducted to see if the treatment was neuroprotective, if it could protect dopaminergic neurons from degeneration, and restorative, if it could restore tyrosine hydroxylase positive dopaminergic terminals in the striatum. These pathways were monitored at both molecular and cellular levels. The research also looked into whether the protection was mediated through the same mechanisms as other neuroprotective agents such as anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways. The results indicated that acupuncture was not only neuroprotective and restorative, but also seen to improve motor performance in animal models of Parkinsonism. The protective effect appeared to be mediated through common mechanisms of other neuroprotective agents, while restoration of function involved activation of certain compensatory brain regions to correct the imbalances stemming from the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, clinical studies in China and Korea depicted a positive impact of acupuncture in treating Parkinson's disease, specifically by reducing the dosage of dopaminergic medications and the associated side effects.

A Systematic Review published in 2015 in the journal Medicine found that Acupuncture has been found potentially more effective than drugs in improving cognitive function and daily life in Alzheimer's disease patients, while also demonstrating safety. The research methodology involved a comprehensive exploration of multiple databases including Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and various Chinese platforms from their inception to June 2014. The focus was on Randomized Controlled Trials where Alzheimer's disease patients received treatment either solely through acupuncture or in conjunction with one kind of drug. Data was independently extracted by two authors, and results concerning adverse reactions related to acupuncture were documented. In analyzing the results of ten trials incorporating a total of 585 participants, it was clear that acupuncture demonstrated advantages over drugs alone, particularly in terms of improving scores on the Mini Mental State Examination scale. Additionally, evidence suggested that integrating acupuncture with the Alzheimer drug Donepezil was more effective in improving the same scale score when contrasted with using Donepezil as a sole treatment method. Adverse reactions linked to acupuncture were reported in only two trials out of 141, pointing to a low incidence of complications related to the procedure.

A Systematic Review published in 2014 in the journal The Journal of Nutrition found that Polyphenolic compounds found in walnuts not only reduce the oxidant and inflammatory load on brain cells but also improve interneuronal signaling, increase neurogenesis, and enhance sequestration of insoluble toxic protein aggregates. In conclusion, age-related increases in oxidative stress and inflammation, especially when coupled with metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction, lead to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. This process of brain aging occurs even in the absence of specific neurodegenerative diseases. Although most chronic neurodegenerative diseases cannot currently be cured, preventive measures earlier in life can protect cognitive function in old age and may prevent or delay the onset of debilitating neurodegenerative diseases. Dietary interventions provide a safe and palatable means of modifying the body's internal environment and, importantly, the neuronal environment within the brain. Walnut polyphenols and tocopherols can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation; furthermore, PUFAs help maintain neuronal membrane integrity and attenuate protein aggregation involved in AD. In rodent studies, the addition of dietary walnuts, equivalent to a single serving of walnuts for humans, was sufficient to improve both motor and cognitive behavior in aged animals. In humans, the inclusion of walnuts in the diet improved cardiovascular health, which is itself a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases and age-related cognitive decline. Taken together, this evidence suggests that the integration of walnuts into a healthy diet could be an effective means of prolonging health spans, slowing the processes of brain aging, and reducing the risk of chronic neurodegenerative disease.

A Review Article published in 2013 in the journal British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that Cocoa and chocolate, rich in antioxidant molecules like epicatechin, enhance brain health, stimulate brain perfusion, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and stroke. The study involved taking a comprehensive look at the substances contained in cocoa powder and chocolate, their absorption into the brain, and their resulting stimulatory effects on multiple areas of the brain, particularly those connected to comprehension and memory. It also delved into the beneficial effects of epicatechin, a flavonoid found abundantly in cocoa and chocolate, which showed improvements in cognition in both animals and humans. Interestingly, the research showed that the consumption of chocolate could induce mood enhancement, elaborating on its common consumption during times of emotional stress. The study further investigated flavonoids' preservation of cognitive abilities in rats during aging, noting the reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and the decreased likelihood of stroke in humans, demonstrating their wider effects beyond just mood enhancement. The research then looked into flavonoids' interactions within the various signaling pathways related to proteins and lipids in the brain, shedding light on how they inhibit neuron death from neurotoxic elements like oxygen radicals, all while promoting neuron survival and synaptic plasticity. The overall intent of the research was to gather and examine the available data regarding the effects of cocoa and chocolate on brain health and cognitive capacities.

A published in 2007 in the journal Mycobiology found that Tremella fuciformis, a mushroom, shows potential as a protective agent against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by promoting cell growth and reducing toxicity. The methodology involved testing the neurotrophic effects of Tremella fuciformis, a mushroom, using a hot water extract of it. This testing was done by utilizing microscopic monitoring of its ability to encourage neurite outgrowth in PC12h cells, essentially examining the mushroom's ability to stimulate nerve growth. The researchers compared the effectiveness of the extract to other natural substances that had previously been studied in promoting nerve growth. In the discussion of results, the study demonstrated that the hot water extract of T. fuciformis was highly effective at promoting neurite outgrowth in PC12h cells. This effectiveness outperformed other natural substances in previous studies. Moreover, when the cells were treated with T. fuciformis extract before being exposed to a β-amyloid peptide treatment (which is associated with Alzheimer's disease), the extract significantly reduced the toxicity. This suggests the potential application of T. fuciformis as a preventative measure in counteracting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

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