Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia with no known cause or cure.  This neurological condition causes brain cells to degenerate and die, leading to a decline in memory function and thinking skills.

In a recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers from the University of Cambridge have found a link between breastfeeding and a woman’s Alzheimer’s risk later in life. The research group interviewed 81 women aged 70 and above, and found that women who breastfed their infants had a lower risk of the disease. Breastfeeding mothers who had no history of dementia in their families saw the biggest benefit, while those with a family history of dementia saw a smaller – but still noticeable – benefit.

According to the study,”Breastfeeding practices are an important modifier of…hormone exposure for mothers. Ovarian hormone deprivation and/or insulin sensitivity benefits of breastfeeding may be responsible for the…reduction in AD (Alzheimer’s Disease) risk.”  The study found a direct corrolation between the length of time the mother breastfed and the reduction of her risk.

Previous studies have already established that breastfeeding can reduce a mother’s risk of other diseases, including overall cognitive decline.  Among other conclusions, the possibility of breastfeeding as a cheap and easy way to reduce Alzheimer’s risk in women will demand further study.

“Alzheimer’s is the world’s most common cognitive disorder and it already affects 35.6 million people,” said the study’s lead author, Dr Molly Fox, in a press release.  “It is vital that we develop low-cost, large-scale strategies to protect people against this devastating disease.”

Source information can be found in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, the University of Cambridge and on FoxNews.com.

For more health information and caregiver resources, visit our Caregiver Corner blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.  Care More.  Spend Less.  Save Now.