Stress linked to Alzheimers

An interesting article, Stress boosts Alzheimer’s proteins in the brain, in the New Scientist links stress and the risk of Alzheimers disease (in mice)

Brief periods of stress can cause a rapid rise in the brain proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study in mice.

Just three days of stress caused an abrupt 42% increase in brain proteins thought to cause the disease. The study helps to shed light on why people who experience great stress and anxiety appear more prone to this illness, experts say.

The researchers relate this to experience with people, in particluar a famous study about attitudes and longevity amongst Catholic nuns.

A previous study of nearly 800 Catholic nuns, priests and brothers found that those plagued by negative emotions, such as depression and anxiety, had about twice the risk of Alzheimer’s as those who took a more laid-back approach to life.

Holtzman says the mouse experiment adds to the growing body of evidence that reducing stress in everyday life might lower a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease. He also speculates that anti-anxiety drugs might one day have a role in the control of this illness.

I agree with everything he says until he mentions anti-anxiety drugs. He could just have well have said meditation, relaxation techniques or EFT. Low cost, no side-effects and much more enjoyable.