Dementia Risk May be Reduced by Moderate Drinking

Says Study Posted by Kristeen Moore on August 21, 2011 10:42 AM in Boomer Health and Lifestyle, what you need to know

 Dementia patients are too often frustrated by caregivers who fail to understand what is important to those who suffer

Dementia does not have a cure, but scientists are looking into everyday habits that can reduce the chances of developing such brain disorders. According to the Los Angeles Times, a collection of studies by Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine show that moderate drinkers are 23 percent less likely to develop dementia and cognitive damage.

At the same time, heavy drinkers are more likely to develop dementia, reports the Los Angeles Times. Low and moderate amounts of drinking can reduce inflammation in the body, while large quantities can increase it.

Another theory is that moderate drinking can increase high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol in the body. HDL has the propensity to increase blood flow within the brain, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Despite the promising evidence, non-drinkers should not drink in an attempt to fight off dementia.

"Alcohol is a double-edge sword,” said Professor Michael Collins, the study's co-author. “For many people it is a dangerous problem worldwide and one of the major causes of mortality. But there is this side that should be taken into consideration."

 Moderate drinking is considered by the Mayo Clinic to equate to two drinks per day for men, and one drink a day for women. 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine and l.5 ounces of spirits are all equal to one drink.

Red wine is touted for its health benefits when consumed in moderation. When it comes to the effects of red wine over other types of alcohol in relation to a reduced dementia risk, the Los Angeles Times reports that no significant differences were found.

Dementia is classified by a number of brain disorders, and is it misconceived as one disease. Symptoms can include memory loss and the inability to perform everyday functions. Stroke and Alzheimer’s disease can both lead to dementia, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Medications are available to help treat the symptoms of dementia, but there is no cure.