Preventing Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Vascular Dementia

Neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and vascular dementia develop through complex biological processes that often begin many years before symptoms become apparent. Changes in brain function can involve inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired circulation, metabolic disturbances and genetic susceptibility. Conventional treatment largely focuses on diagnosing and managing established disease. My functional medicine approach explores what may be happening upstream, identifying modifiable risk factors and biochemical imbalances that could contribute to neurological deterioration long before significant cognitive or physical impairment develops.

Genetics offers an important insight into individual vulnerability. Through Lifecode Gx testing, I investigate pathways associated with neurological health, including APOE, which influences Alzheimer's disease susceptibility and lipid metabolism; MTHFR and related methylation genes, involved in folate metabolism and homocysteine regulation; COMT and MAOA, associated with neurotransmitter metabolism; and BDNF, which plays a role in neuroplasticity and neuronal survival. I also consider genetic influences on inflammation, antioxidant defence and mitochondrial function. These findings are interpreted alongside clinical history, symptoms and biochemical investigations, recognising that genetic predisposition does not inevitably lead to disease.

One of my particular interests is the relationship between methylation, vascular health and cognitive function. Elevated homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies, insulin resistance, impaired glucose regulation and chronic inflammation can all have implications for neurological health. Vascular dementia is especially closely associated with cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes and circulatory disease. Investigating these connections can help identify opportunities for earlier intervention, while also considering how medications, nutritional status and individual genetic variations may influence the wider picture.

The gut–brain connection is another important area of investigation, particularly in Parkinson's disease. Emerging research suggests that changes within the gastrointestinal nervous system, microbiome and inflammatory pathways may contribute to neurological processes involving alpha-synuclein, a protein associated with Parkinson's pathology. Although these mechanisms are still being investigated, they highlight the close relationship between digestive and neurological health. I explore gastrointestinal function, microbiome imbalances, nutrient absorption and relevant inflammatory markers as part of a broader assessment, recognising that neurological health cannot be understood entirely in isolation from the rest of the body.

Depending on the individual, my investigations may include genetic analysis, organic acids testing, gastrointestinal and microbiome assessments, nutritional deficiencies, metabolic markers and hormonal function. I bring these findings together to develop a personalised therapeutic programme incorporating nutritional interventions, targeted supplementation, lifestyle changes and appropriate complementary approaches. The intention is to address potentially modifiable contributors to neurological vulnerability, support cellular and metabolic health, and strengthen the foundations of long-term brain resilience. While no approach can guarantee the prevention of neurodegenerative disease, there is considerable value in recognising and addressing established risk factors as early as possible.

My background in psychotherapy brings an additional dimension to this work. Chronic stress, trauma, disturbed sleep and emotional difficulties can influence neurological and physiological function, while changes in memory, movement and independence can profoundly affect an individual's emotional wellbeing and relationships. Drawing on 35 years of therapeutic experience, I work with the whole person, bringing together biological investigation and psychological understanding. My aim is to support cognitive vitality, neurological resilience and quality of life, while recognising the importance of early intervention and the body's interconnected systems.

Come and work with me. It is never too soon. Which is a good thing actually.