Alzheimer's disease and dementia are related, however they are their own distinct terms.

Dementia describes a group of symptoms that affects the brain, which can cause a decline in thinking, memory, and reasoning skills. It is not a normal part of aging, but it's a more common diagnosis as people get older. 

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease that is carried out by complex brain changes from cell damage. This damage leads to dementia related symptoms that progressively worsen over time. The earliest recognized symptom is the inability to remember new information as this affects the brain’s ability to learn.

While many people use the terms Dementia and Alzheimer’s interchangeably; it's easy to understand that they are not the same. Alzheimer's is just one form of dementia which is a broad term used to describe memory loss and cognitive decline.

 

What other types of dementia are there?

While Dementia research is ever evolving, it has identified 4 distinct types. Each type of dementia affects the brain differently, though the overall symptoms remain similar. 

Alzheimer's disease and dementia

     • The most prevalent form of dementia

     • Affects the part of the brain associated with learning

     • Onset usually occurs around the age of 65 or older

Vascular Dementia

     • The area of the brain most affected by this form of dementia is speed of thinking and problem solving

      • Risk factors are similar to those of heart disease, and stroke

Lewy body dementia:  

     • These protein deposits affect the areas of the brain that involve thinking, memory and movement

     • Some other symptoms are visual hallucinations and movement disorders

Frontotemporal dementia:

     • Affects the front and temporal parts of the brain

     • Symptoms depend on which part of the brain is affected however it usually affects behavior, personality and language

     • Usually occurs at an earlier age than other forms of dementia between the ages of  40 - 65 years old

It is also possible to be diagnosed with symptoms from multiple types of dementia and is referred to as Mixed dementia.  

 

What causes these forms of dementia?

Through research, they have found that dementia can be caused by several different factors with each type having specific areas of the brain affected. 

Alzheimer’s is caused by the build up of amyloid and tau substances in our brain. These substances build up and cause the destruction and death of nerve cells affecting memory, personality and problems carrying out daily activities.¹

Vascular dementia is where the brain is affected by the lack of blood supply. When blood supply is impacted, this causes the brain to lose oxygen and nutrients affecting its ability to perform thought processes effectively.²

Lewy body dementia is caused by tiny clumps of protein (lewy bodies) that build up in the brain. These protein deposits cause the loss of neurons affecting the neurotransmitters that aid the brain in memory and learning leading to cognitive decline.³

Frontotemporal dementia is caused by atrophy (shrinking) of the lobes and build up of substances. What causes the shrinking of the lobes and build up is currently unknown. The most common symptoms of Frontotemporal dementia are extreme changes in behavior and personality.⁴

Each type of dementia has unique characteristics, but they often share one unfortunate reality: the presence of chronic inflammation that worsens cognitive symptoms.

 

The Inflammatory Link: How Inflammation Impacts the Brain

Many of our modern habits— like processed foods, refined sugars, sedentary lifestyles—introduce constant low-level inflammation into our systems. 

This slow-burning inflammation starts in the gut and can travel to the brain; a concept the scientific community calls the Gut-Brain Inflammation connection. This connection is complex and bi-directional; its signals pass both ways from the digestive system and the nervous system. 

Dr. James M. Ellison, MD, MPH, a notable figure in Alzheimer’s research, emphasizes the role of lifestyle and inflammation in brain health. Chronic inflammatory conditions pose a significant threat not only to brain health but also to the heart, kidneys, and other vital organs⁵

Therefore chronic inflammation, over time, can trigger neurodegenerative changes, paving the way for diseases like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This process explains why individuals who had no cognitive issues in their youth or middle age may later face memory loss and confusion as they age.

 

Cerenovex: An Innovative Approach to Neurodegeneration

Cerenovex stands out as one of the few probiotics undergoing Phase 3 human trials with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients, offering a groundbreaking solution in the fight against dementia.

It’s not just about temporarily improving memory or focus; it’s about tackling the underlying inflammation that contributes to these diseases. 

With consistent use, Cerenovex can become a powerful ally in preventive care and symptom management, allowing the individual to take charge of their cognitive health in a proactive way.

 

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Brain Health Today

Dementia and Alzheimer’s may seem like inevitable outcomes of aging, but they don’t have to be. By making conscious choices to reduce inflammation, you can make a meaningful impact on your brain health. Whether you’re over 50, managing symptoms, or simply seeking preventative care, Cerenovex is here to support your journey with a scientifically-backed, innovative approach to gut health and cognitive support.

 

Want to learn more? Visit our homepage to explore the science behind Cerenovex and how it can support you in taking charge of your cognitive health. Prevention starts today, and Cerenovex is here to help make it possible