When it comes to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, early prevention is key to preserving as much cognitive function as possible, and some breaking advancements in the field of artificial intelligence could help do just that. According to a study in Radiology, scientists sought to use deep learning, a process utilized by AI to learn by example just like human beings do to map changes in the brain which could predict Alzheimer’s earlier on.
The mechanism by which researchers sought to implement this new technique involved imaging technology and injection of a radioactive glucose compound known as FDG. Subsequently, an FDG-PET scan would then be able to track the levels of the glucose compound in the brain, which also indicate metabolic activity rate.
The research team referred to information provided by the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. This information consisted of data including 2,100 FDG-PET scan images from approximately 1,000 patients. By applying the deep learning algorithm on 90% of the data and testing it on the 10% remainder, the deep learning algorithm proved itself capable of knowing which metabolic patterns were indicative of Alzheimer’s.
In a follow-up to this initial testing, researchers again tested the algorithm and it achieved a 100% sensitivity rate at being able to successfully detect Alzheimer’s approximately six years before official diagnosis.
Artificial intelligence could play a pivotal role in early detection of Alzheimer’s.
Further research needs to be carried out, of course, but research teams are strongly optimistic about initial findings and have stated the aim of similar studies in the future would be to target patterns of plaque formations and other substances in the brain that build up and which contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s.
Knowing if you’re at risk of developing Alzheimer’s is certainly a ground-breaking and promising prospect, but even if you don’t have an amazing robot that will determine your likelihood of developing this terrible condition, you can take certain steps through supplements and nutrition in order to off-set the possibility and improve your odds of protecting yourself against Alzheimer’s.
Some of these include:
- Adopting an ‘Alzheimer’s Prevention Diet’ which typically consists of: 20% “good” fats, 40% lean proteins, 40% complex carbs and however many ‘Superfoods’ (i.e., spinach, seaweed, blueberries) as you’d like.
- Supplements to help boost memory like CoQ10, Gingko Biloba, Resveratrol and Omega-3s.
- Lots of brain-boosting activities like puzzles, word searchers, Sudoku, etc.
Above all, it’s important to always be vigilant of changes in memory and neural functioning. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one’s chances for potentially developing Alzheimer’s, you should talk to your doctor and if you’re looking for a customized nutrition and supplement protocol specifically for optimizing brain health and cognitive function, be sure to check out my page for more information.