The Research
Even MORE evidence has been added to the mountain of research which highlights the role of aluminum in the formation of Alzheimer's Disease.
Aluminum became a suspect in the Alzheimer’s epidemic as a result of research performed in the 1970’s. Today's authorities agree the evidence against aluminum is undeniable, and back in 2011, published a comment in the International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease about the growing evidence for the link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease.
That was 10 years ago. Today, the evidence continues to confirm the risks of consuming aluminum, as cited in this recent study reported in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Reports.
Aluminum is a widely recognized neurotoxin which contributes to cognitive deficiency and dementia, and may in fact have adverse effects on the central nervous system.
Do We Need Aluminum?
Our nutritional need for aluminum is ZERO, yet large amounts of aluminum are found in many foods. That's because the FDA still considers certain aluminum-containing foods to be GRAS - Generally Regarded as Safe. Aluminum compounds serve as emulsifying agents in cheese (especially on frozen pizza). It's also found in baking powders and products prepared with them, which is why you'll notice my recipes calling for "aluminum-free baking powder." It can also be found in toiletries (especially deodorants and lotions), cookware, foil, cans, drinking water, and antacids (Maalox for example - MAgnesium, ALuminim, hyrOXide).
Which Foods Contain Aluminum?
In addition to aluminum additives being included in pizza cheese and crust, baking powders and soda cans, other sources of aluminum in our foods can include: coffee creamers, pancake mixes, microwave popcorn, tortillas, pickle relish, muffins, donuts, cakes (anything that uses baking powder, self-rising flour, or salt); restaurant biscuits, breadsticks, and soft tacos. Other products can include deodorants, lotions, shampoos, cosmetics, lip balm and soaps.
Here are ways you can lessen your exposure to aluminum. ALWAYS read the ingredient list on your labels. Avoid anything containing the words aluminum or alum. And remember to beware of bakery counters and restaurant foods as well; restaurants are not likely to tell you what sort of baking powder they use in their pancakes, breads, and bakery items.
Bottom Line: Know what you're ingesting and putting on your body. Your mental capacity depends on it.
Interested in the most brain/heart/bone/gut protecting diet out there? Check out my FREE webinar where you'll learn three important things:
- How to shed 1-3 pounds a week - and keep it off - without counting calories or points or eating tiny portions.
- Why ditching this one highly-processed food allows you to accelerate your weight loss AND improve your health.
- How you can reduce or eliminate medications with a single food component that most people lack.
Thanks for reading, take good care!