Tag: Amyloid plaques

According to the Amyloidosis Research Consortium, dietary protein does not impact the production of the specific amyloid proteins that cause disease. The answer to 'what food has amyloid protein?' is none; these harmful proteins are made by the body, not consumed. However, diet plays a crucial role in managing the complications of amyloidosis, a rare and serious condition.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common cause. While no single food can reverse cognitive decline, research suggests that certain dietary patterns and nutrients may help manage and even reduce amyloid plaque burden in the brain.

A 2023 study published in *Neurology* found that close adherence to the Mediterranean and MIND diets was associated with significantly lower levels of beta-amyloid plaques in the brains of deceased individuals. While no foods can truly *get rid of amyloid* once established, a strategic dietary approach can play a crucial role in managing plaque accumulation and promoting overall brain health.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, with an estimated 6.9 million Americans aged 65 and older living with the disease in 2024. A key pathological feature of Alzheimer's involves the accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles, made of aggregated tau protein, and amyloid plaques. Early studies, primarily in laboratory and animal models, show potential mechanisms by which components of cinnamon may interfere with this process, sparking a key question: **Can cinnamon help to reduce tau amyloid plaques in the brain?**

Recent studies in mouse models have shown that time-restricted feeding, a form of intermittent fasting, significantly reduced amyloid plaques and improved cognitive function. This promising animal research has raised significant interest and questions about whether fasting, and the cellular processes it triggers, can help humans and if fasting can truly get rid of amyloid plaques. While human trials are more limited, the underlying mechanisms offer intriguing insights into this potential therapeutic approach.

In a March 2023 study published in *Neurology*, scientists found that older adults adhering to the MIND or Mediterranean diets showed significantly less amyloid plaque pathology in autopsied brain tissue. This highlights the significant role of specific dietary patterns in influencing what diet reduces amyloid accumulation and supporting long-term cognitive health.