What are the different subtypes of Alzheimer's disease?

Dr. Bredesen outlines several subtypes: Type 1 (inflammatory), Type 2 (atrophic), Type 1.5 (glycotoxic), Type 3 (toxic), Type 4 (vascular), and Type 5 (traumatic). Most people have a combination of these.

How does the APOE4 gene affect Alzheimer's risk?

Having one copy of the APOE4 gene increases lifetime risk to about 30%, while two copies increase it to over 50%. However, lifestyle factors play a crucial role, and risk can be managed.

What is the ReCODE protocol?

ReCODE (Reversal of Cognitive Decline) is a personalized, programmatic approach developed by Dr. Bredesen that addresses multiple contributing factors to cognitive decline through diet, lifestyle, and targeted interventions.

What is the Keto Flex 12/3 diet?

It's a diet emphasizing mild ketosis with low carbohydrates and high healthy fats, combined with flexitarian food choices and a minimum of a 12-hour overnight fast, promoting brain health and metabolic flexibility.

Why is fasting important in the ReCODE protocol?

Fasting, particularly overnight fasting for 12-16 hours, allows the brain to induce ketosis, clear waste products via the glymphatic system, and improve insulin sensitivity, all crucial for cognitive function.

Can toxins cause Alzheimer's disease?

Yes, Type 3 Alzheimer's is specifically linked to toxin exposure, such as mycotoxins from mold. Identifying and removing these toxins is a critical part of the ReCODE protocol.

Are amyloid-targeting drugs effective for Alzheimer's?

Recent clinical trials targeting amyloid plaques have largely failed, suggesting amyloid is a mediator, not the sole cause. Dr. Bredesen emphasizes addressing the upstream causes before attempting to remove amyloid.

What is the role of gut health in Alzheimer's?

Gut health is highly relevant, as a 'leaky gut' can contribute to chronic inflammatory conditions, including cognitive decline. Tests like Cyrex Array 2 and GI Effects can assess gut health.

How does sauna use relate to Alzheimer's prevention?

Saunas can aid in detoxification by promoting the sweating out of toxins like mercury and BPA. This reduces the overall toxic burden on the body, which is beneficial for brain health.

Can Alzheimer's be reversed?

Dr. Bredesen's ReCODE protocol has shown success in improving and even reversing cognitive decline in thousands of patients, demonstrating that Alzheimer's is often a treatable and potentially reversible condition.

Dr. Dale Bredesen on Preventing and Reversing Alzheimer's Disease

FoundMyFitness

Science & Technology3 min read69 min video

Oct 1, 2018|491,236 views|9,292|686

Alzheimer's disease ketosis aging brain memory dementia hormones diet insulin resistance Dr. Dale Bredesen Bredesen Protocol neurodegenerative disease

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Key Moments

TL;DR

Dr. Bredesen discusses multifactorial causes and a personalized, comprehensive protocol for preventing and reversing Alzheimer's.

Key Insights

Alzheimer's is complex with multiple subtypes (inflammatory, atrophic, glycotoxic, toxic, vascular, traumatic) driven by various factors.

Amyloid plaques and tau tangles are markers, not direct causes; they are responses to underlying insults like inflammation, pathogens, toxins, or reduced trophic support.

The 'recode' protocol is a personalized, programmatic approach addressing specific contributing factors rather than a single 'cure'.

Diet (keto-flex 12/3), exercise, sleep, stress management, and addressing toxins are crucial components of the protocol.

Biomarkers (e.g., ApoE4, homocysteine, insulin resistance markers, vitamin D, hormones, toxins) are essential for diagnosis and personalization.

Early intervention and a holistic, personalized strategy are key to preventing and reversing cognitive decline.

THE COMPLEX NATURE OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of cognitive decline and dementia, characterized by amyloid plaques and tau tangles. However, these are markers, not causes. Dr. Bredesen highlights that amyloid can be a protective response to various insults. Understanding that Alzheimer's is not a single entity but a complex condition with multiple underlying causes is the first step towards effective treatment and prevention.

SUBTYPES AND CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS

Dr. Bredesen identifies several subtypes of Alzheimer's: Type 1 (inflammatory), Type 2 (atrophic, due to lack of trophic support), Type 1.5 (glycotoxic, linked to insulin resistance), Type 3 (toxic), Type 4 (vascular), and Type 5 (traumatic). These are driven by factors like pathogens, inflammation, toxins, metabolic changes, genetics (e.g., ApoE4), hormonal imbalances, and reduced support for neural networks.

BIOMARKERS FOR PERSONALIZED DIAGNOSIS

Effective intervention requires identifying individual causes through biomarker analysis. Key markers include ApoE genotype, inflammation markers (hs-CRP), methylation status (homocysteine), insulin sensitivity (fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1c, fasting glucose), trophic support indicators (Vitamin D, hormones), and toxin levels (e.g., heavy metals, mycotoxins). These data points inform a personalized treatment strategy.

THE RECODE PROTOCOL: A HOLISTIC APPROACH

The 'recode' protocol is a comprehensive program focused on addressing the root causes of cognitive decline. It's not a single therapy but a programmatic approach that includes dietary changes (keto-flex 12/3), exercise, optimized sleep, stress reduction, and detoxification. The goal is to restore metabolic balance, reduce inflammation, and enhance neural support.

DIETARY STRATEGIES: KETO-FLEX 12/3

The keto-flex 12/3 diet combines ketogenic principles for brain energy with a 'flexitarian' approach to protein and a specific fasting window. It emphasizes healthy fats, is low in carbohydrates, includes quality protein sources, and promotes a minimum 12-hour fast between dinner and breakfast. This strategy aims to improve insulin sensitivity, promote ketosis, and support brain function.

IMPORTANCE OF DETOXIFICATION AND LIFESTYLE

Clearing toxins and improving lifestyle factors are critical. This includes avoiding environmental toxins, addressing mold exposure, and utilizing methods like sauna use to promote detoxification. Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and stress management are also vital components that influence brain health and resilience. The protocol emphasizes optimizing all these areas for maximum benefit.

AMYLOID AND TAU: MEDIATORS, NOT CAUSES

The focus on amyloid and tau in traditional Alzheimer's research has been misguided, as these are mediators or responses to underlying issues, not the primary culprits. Dr. Bredesen explains that targeting amyloid directly with drugs has largely failed because it doesn't address the upstream causes. The 'recode' protocol aims to reduce the production of amyloid and tau by resolving the underlying inflammatory, toxic, or atrophic processes.

THE ROLE OF GENETICS AND PERSONALIZATION

While genetic factors like ApoE4 increase risk, they are not deterministic. The 'recode' protocol recognizes the importance of personalization based on an individual's unique genetic makeup, biomarker profile, and lifestyle. Understanding markers like ApoE4 allows for tailored strategies to mitigate risk and optimize cognitive health throughout life.

INTERVENING EARLY AND CONTINUOUS SUPPORT

The earlier intervention begins, the better the outcomes. Dr. Bredesen stresses that Alzheimer's should be a rare disease if everyone is screened and follows a personalized program. The protocol is designed for long-term adherence, emphasizing ongoing monitoring and adjustments to maintain cognitive function and prevent decline, turning the tide against Alzheimer's.

Mentioned in This Episode

●Supplements

●Software & Apps

●Tools

●Books

●Concepts

●People Referenced

ReCODE Protocol: Key Recommendations

Practical takeaways from this episode

Do This

Get tested for APOE4 and other biomarkers (homocysteine, fasting insulin, Hba1c, etc.) starting at age 45.

Follow the Keto Flex 12/3 diet: plant-rich, high-fat, mild ketosis, with specific fasting windows (12-16 hours).

Prioritize reducing inflammation through diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management.

Optimize trophic support for the brain with adequate Vitamin D, DHA, Cita Choline, and hormones.

Address potential toxins: test for mycotoxins, reduce exposure, and consider saunas for detoxification.

Consider bioidentical hormone replacement if indicated for atrophic type Alzheimer's.

Improve gut health through targeted testing and interventions.

Avoid This

Do not assume amyloid plaques are the sole cause of Alzheimer's; they are often mediators.

Avoid high-mercury fish like tuna, shark, and swordfish.

Do not eat within 3 hours of bedtime to avoid negatively impacting cognition and fat storage.

Avoid processed foods and refined carbohydrates.

Do not rely on a single mono-therapy; adopt a comprehensive programmatic approach.

Avoid relying solely on amyloid-clearing antibodies without addressing upstream causes.

Common Questions

The two main pathological hallmarks are amyloid plaques and phosphorylated tau tangles in the brain. However, these are considered markers and not necessarily the sole cause, as their presence doesn't always correlate with cognitive decline.

Topics

Amyloid Plaques Tau Tangles ReCODE Protocol Keto Flex 12/3 Mycotoxins

Mentioned in this video

conceptType 1 Alzheimer's (inflammatory)

A subtype of Alzheimer's characterized by inflammation, often referred to as 'hot Alzheimer's'.

conceptfasting insulin

A biomarker used to assess insulin resistance and metabolic health.

softwareCMV

Cytomegalovirus, a herpes family virus that can be present in patients with cognitive decline.

conceptType 1.5 Alzheimer's (glycotoxic)

A subtype combining features of Type 1 and Type 2, driven by insulin resistance and chronic high glucose.

softwareHSV

Herpes Simplex Virus, a herpes family virus that can be present in patients with cognitive decline.

softwaredr.bredesen.com

The official website of Dr. Dale Bredesen, offering information on the ReCODE protocol.

personRobert Moyer

Co-author of research showing amyloid beta as an antimicrobial.

conceptReCODE

Dr. Bredesen's protocol for reversal of cognitive decline, previously known as MEND.

conceptphosphorylated tau tangles

The second main pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

personMario Mendez

Professor noted for identifying cortical presentations typical in younger Alzheimer's patients.

conceptKeto Flex 12/3

Dr. Bredesen's dietary approach for brain health, emphasizing ketosis, plant-rich foods, and intermittent fasting.

conceptType 4 Alzheimer's (vascular)

A subtype with a prominent vascular component.

drugMycotoxins

Toxins produced by molds that can cause chronic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and contribute to neurodegeneration.

toolDoctor's Data Test

A provider of laboratory testing, including stool analysis for gut health.

toolCyrex Array 3

A Cyrex lab test that examines gluten and gliadin antibodies.

personLouis Alzheimer

The scientist whose early publications in 1906-1907 laid the groundwork for understanding Alzheimer's disease.

conceptType 3 Alzheimer's (toxic)

A subtype caused by exposure to toxins.

personRobert Meili

Discovered the APOE protein and its link to Alzheimer's risk.

softwareHHV

Human Herpesvirus, a family of viruses that can be present in patients with cognitive decline.

personJen Lluis

Canadian researcher who studied the composition of toxins in sweat.

toolGenova Test

A company offering comprehensive stool analysis for assessing gut health.

conceptType 2 Alzheimer's (atrophic)

A subtype of Alzheimer's characterized by decreased trophic support, referred to as 'cold Alzheimer's'.

softwareEBV

Epstein-Barr virus, a herpes family virus that can be present in patients with cognitive decline.

toolGI Effects

A comprehensive stool analysis test from Genova Diagnostics for assessing gut health.

conceptType 5 Alzheimer's (traumatic)

A subtype with a traumatic component.

personRichie Shoemaker

Pioneer in understanding mold-related illnesses and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS).

conceptSMASH fish

A recommendation for fish choices: Salmon, Mackerel, Anchovies, Sardines, and Herring, due to lower mercury content.

conceptMS

Multiple Sclerosis, a condition for which similar diet and lifestyle approaches as those for Alzheimer's have shown positive results.

conceptcopper zinc ratio

A ratio of copper to zinc levels, with high ratios linked to dementia.

personAristo Voz Donny

Developer of various assays used by Cyrex.

personRudy Tanzi

Co-author of research showing amyloid beta as an antimicrobial.

personTerry Walls

Researcher who has published extensively on using a similar approach to Dr. Bredesen's for multiple sclerosis.

toolCyrex Array 2

A Cyrex lab test that assesses antibodies related to gut permeability and food sensitivities.

supplementBPA

toolMercury

supplementCadmium

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