Poorly-bound iron could be linked to Alzheimer’s, says study
Published 8 December 2010
Eating foods containing iron chelators, such as blueberries, might help reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease according to an article published in Archives of Toxicology.
Researchers at the University of Manchester analysed all the existing evidence for a link between iron and a number of medical conditions. Poorly-bound iron causes the production of hydroxyl radicals which could lead to nerve cell death. Brightly coloured fruits, vegetables and green tea are a good source of chelators which prevent the iron from breaking up.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'Iron is normally found in the brain and we know that it can become concentrated in the areas damaged in Alzheimer's disease. However, there is currently no evidence that it is a cause of the disease. This review of the existing research provides a useful summary of our understanding of iron and Alzheimer's. Far more research is now needed. Alzheimer's Society is currently funding research to understand the pattern of iron deposits in the brain in Alzheimer's and whether it could be used as a way of detecting the disease by a brain scan.
'Research has shown that the best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, exercise regularly, don't smoke and get your cholesterol and blood pressure checked often.'
Dr Anne Corbett
Research Communications Manager
Alzheimer's Society
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Research Reference: Douglas B. Kell, 'Towards a unifying, systems biology understanding of large-scale cellular death and destruction caused by poorly liganded iron: Parkinson's, Huntington's, Alzheimer's, prions, bactericides, chemical toxicology and others as examples', Archives of Toxicology 2010, volume 84.
Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
