Cinnamon can delay development of Alzheimer’s, according to study

When given water containing a CEppt solution over four months, researchers found that the ingredient inhibited the formation of toxic amyloid plaques and also prevented these plaques from killing brain cells in the mice. Amyloid plaques are a major hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This is an interesting study which looks at the benefits of a specific ingredient in cinnamon.  However people shouldn't rush out to buy this popular spice. This research is in the early stages and looked at mice not humans. We are therefore a long way from using cinnamon in the fight against Alzheimer's. We need greater investment in dementia research to help us translate potential opportunities like this into effective treatments for people living with this devastating condition.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference:

Michael Ovadia et al. 'Orally Administrated Cinnamon Extract Reduces β-Amyloid Oligomerization and Corrects Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease Animal Models' published in PloS One, January 2011

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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 ten 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