Alzheimer's Research UK

Alzheimer’s and iron – Alzheimer’s Research Trust comment

08/12/2010

In the report, Professor Douglas Kell looked at existing literature on the topic and concluded that iron could be involved in causing a variety of diseases, including Alzheimer’s. His review paper is published in the journal Archives of Toxicology.

Dr Simon Ridley, Head of Research at the Alzheimer’s Research Trust, the UK’s leading dementia research charity, said:
“It is important to note that this author’s report does not describe the results of a new study, but puts forward one theory about the possible causes of Alzheimer’s disease. We need to see more research into this theory before we’ll know if iron has any role to play in developing dementia.

“There are many ideas about what causes dementia, and it is likely to be caused by a combination of different factors. There is currently no evidence to show that green tea or purple fruit can prevent dementia. The best evidence so far has shown that by taking regular exercise and eating a healthy diet, especially in mid-life, we may help reduce our risk of developing dementia.

“Further studies into risk are crucial to tell us more about how to prevent this devastating condition, and this highlights the need for more investment into dementia research.”

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