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Myth 1: Memory loss is a natural
part of aging.
Reality: In the past people believed memory loss was a normal part of aging, often regarding even Alzheimer’s
as natural age-related decline. Experts now recognize severe memory
loss as a symptom of serious illness.
Whether memory naturally declines to some extent remains an open
question. Many people feel that their memory becomes less sharp
as they grow older, but determining whether there is any scientific
basis for this belief is a research challenge still being addressed.
Myth 2: Alzheimer’s disease is not
fatal.
Reality: Alzheimer's is a fatal disease. It begins with
the destruction of cells in regions of the brain that are important
for memory. However, the eventual loss of cells in other regions
of the brain leads to the failure of other essential systems in
the body. Also, because many people with Alzheimer’s have other
illnesses common in older age, the actual cause of death may be
no single factor
Myth 3: Drinking out of aluminum cans
or cooking in aluminum pots and pans can lead to Alzheimer’s
disease.
Reality: Based on current research, getting rid of aluminum
cans, pots, and pans will not protect you from Alzheimer’s
disease. The exact role (if any) of aluminum in Alzheimer’s
disease is still being researched and debated. However, most researchers
believe that not enough evidence exists to consider aluminum a risk
factor for Alzheimer’s or a cause of dementia.
Myth 4: Aspartame causes memory loss.
Reality: Several
studies have been conducted on aspartame’s effect on cognitive
function in both animals and humans. These studies found no scientific
evidence of a link between aspartame and memory loss.
Aspartame was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) in 1996 for use in all foods and beverages. The sweetener,
marketed as Nutrasweet® and Equal®, is made by joining two protein
components, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, with 10 percent methanol.
Methanol is widely found in fruits, vegetables, and other plant
foods.
Myth 5: There are therapies available
to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Reality: At this time, there is no medical treatment to
cure or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. FDA-approved
drugs may temporarily improve
or stabilize memory and thinking skills in some individuals.
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