Thiamine can prevent Alzheimer's disease
evidence
The Claim
Some believe that vitamin B1 can prevent or slow cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease, due to its role in nerve function and brain health.
Origin
This misconception may arise from early studies suggesting a link between thiamine and cognitive function, as well as its use in treating Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a condition related to severe thiamine deficiency that affects the brain.
What Science Says
Current evidence, including systematic reviews, does not support the use of thiamine to prevent Alzheimer's. Research indicates that while thiamine deficiency can impact cognitive function, supplementation in non-deficient individuals does not affect Alzheimer's progression. An RCT showed no significant cognitive improvement in patients with Alzheimer's taking thiamine compared to placebo.
Verdict
False