Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder .It is a progressive and fatal brain disease. Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German physician first drew attention to it in 1906.Since then, a great deal has been learnt about the disease by the scientists.

It is estimated that more than 5 million now have Alzheimer's disease. It destroys brain cells, triggering problems with memory, thinking and behavior serious enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Alzheimer's gets worse over time, and it is fatal. At present it is the seventh-leading cause of death.

As we grow older, our brains too change, similar to the rest of our body organs. Most of us experience mild forgetfulness a normal part of aging. It is fine as long as it is not acute. But when it causes hurdles in our day to day activities, it must be accepted as a sign of failure of brain cells. The brain has 100 billion nerve cells and each nerve cell communicates with others to develop a network. These networks have special jobs such as thinking, learning and remembering, whereas some help us to see, hear and smell others tell our muscles when to move.

In order to carry out their functions efficiently, brain cells operate like small factories. They take in supplies, generate energy, construct equipment and get rid of waste. In Alzheimer's disease, parts of the cell's factory stop running perfectly. Scientists are not sure exactly where the trouble starts. As in the case of a real factory, backups and breakdowns in one system set off troubles in other areas. As damage spreads out, cells lose their capacity to function well. Ultimately, they die.

Children exposure to lead could lead to Alzheimer's later in life. Lead has toxic side effects, associated with degenerative conditions of the brain, which can appear decades after children are exposed. It is a risk factor and it does not mean the lead exposure causes Alzheimer's disease.

The best nutrients to preserve memory as one gets older are the nutrients that have been shown to cut Alzheimer's risk. These are Niacin, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin C and Vitamin E. Green leafy vegetables have also been shown to combat memory loss. Scientists have found out that Concord grape juice may prevent the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The polyphenols present in the grape juice produced preventive factors. The polyphenols prevent the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain, and their formation into plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. Although this research is preliminary, nevertheless it is very encouraging. The polyphenol rich Concord grape juice may play a potential protective role in maintaining long term cognitive health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, but low in meat and dairy products helps to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The use of turmeric too is beneficial. It is advisable to drink alcohol in moderation.

A new device has been developed to detect the cognitive decline associated with early stages of Alzheimer's disease .It is an inexpensive and easy to administer test which has given millions of potential Alzheimer's sufferers a chance to slow the diseases advance. The device is expected to be commercialized later this year.

Finally, it is necessary to keep our brain active. Read the papers, solve crosswords, figure out puzzles, socialize and keep contact with people. Discuss the kind of medication one is using with the family doctor. Some medicines like sleeping pills and certain combinations of medicines may adversely affect the memory. Take plenty of exercise. Consult a doctor if you or one of your loved ones isn't behaving or thinking normally.