Making Sense of the Myths Surrounding Alzheimer's

The truth about Alzheimer's disease is that no one knows much about the condition, not even scientists and doctors. A lot of what we do know about it is guess work. So, it stands to reason that there are a lot of misconceptions about the disease. What is fact and what is fiction? There are still a lot of unknowns, but researchers have come up with a few answers that can dispel some of those myths surrounding this brain-robbing disease.

Myth One - Only really old people get Alzheimer's disease.
This myth is based partially on facts. Yes, many older people do develop Alzheimer's, but it is not restricted to just the old. Middle aged people in their forties and fifties can get the disease too.

Myth Two - Mercury from old dental fillings contributes to the cause of the disease.
This is another partial truth based on scientific studies that have indeed found mercury in the brain tissue of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. However, a few fillings could not contribute any significant amounts of mercury and therefore cannot be evenly remotely substantiated.

Myth Three - A family member has Alzheimer's disease. That means I will get it too.
While genetics does factor into the disease, it is not the sole cause. In fact, only a low percentage can be attributed to your gene pool. Otherwise, scientists and researchers really have no good indicators on who will get the disease and who will not.

Myth Four - I have memory problems, so I must be getting Alzheimer's disease.
Memory does play a huge part in the disease. However, there are even more factors that can cause memory loss that has nothing remotely to do with Alzheimer's. For instance, do you have trouble sleeping? Not getting enough rest can cloud your judgment and thought processes easily. Stress has a role in creating memory problems as well as a change in diet.

Myth Five - Artificial sweeteners contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
This is another widely perpetuated myth that has not been proven by science. Some of the components actually come from vegetables, fruits and other natural foods.

Myth Six - I cannot drink from aluminum cans or cook in aluminum pots because aluminum can cause the disease.
There is absolutely no scientific evidence that aluminum plays any part in the development of Alzheimer's. Numerous studies have been conducted and so far, scientists just say that many connecting factors can play a part in the disease.

Myth Seven - A diagnosis of Alzheimer's would be the end of my world and there's nothing I could do.
While science has not shown the way to a cure for the disease, there are numerous steps you can take to slow its progress or even halt it in its tracks. A good diet rich in antioxidants, exercise, plenty of social interaction and mental activities all help.

Don't believe everything you hear about Alzheimer's disease. Before panicking at every story you hear about it, arm yourself with knowledge. Talk with a doctor; visit local support groups for the disease; research on the internet. By doing these things, you can be better prepared should ever have to hear the diagnosis: Alzheimer's.

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