Reminder: this information is not a substitute for medical advice! Consult a healthcare professional about whether these treatments are appropriate.
Vitamin E is found in wheat germ, nuts, seeds and some vegetables. It’s not yet clear if this vitamin can be used to prevent or treat memory loss.
In a study reported in 1997, Vitamin E appeared to delay nursing home placement, disability, severe dementia or death due to the progression of Alzheimer’s, but did not help memory and thinking. A Mayo Clinic study found the vitamin did not benefit people with Mild Cognitive Impairment.
A recent study found that taking more than 400 IU of Vitamin E for more than a year may increase the risk of death.
Trials of Vitamin E and selenium for prevention of Alzheimer’s and Vitamin E and Memantine (Namenda) for treatment of Alzheimer’s are underway. Results of a trial of anti-oxidants including Vitamin E to treat Alzheimer’s should be announced soon.
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