We are conducting the first randomized controlled trial to determine if the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment may be stopped or reversed by a comprehensive, intensive lifestyle intervention: a whole foods plant-based diet low in fat and refined carbohydrates with selected supplements; moderate exercise; stress management; support groups.  

We are midway through this study and are respectfully requesting funds to complete it.  Interim data are very encouraging.  

Whatever we show will be of great interest.  If data from this study document that comprehensive lifestyle changes may stop or reverse the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, it may help redefine what is possible, giving many people new hope and new choices, especially since there are no FDA-approved drugs proven to stop or reverse its progression.  However, if this lifestyle program is not beneficial, then that will be important to know.  

In earlier randomized controlled trials, we found that this same lifestyle intervention may stop or reverse the progression of other, related chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, early-stage prostate cancer, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity.  These affect the same biological mechanisms shared by Alzheimer’s disease.  

U.S. News & World Report rated this as “The #1 Best Heart Healthy Diet” for 10 years since 2011, including 2021.  Medicare and many insurance companies created a new benefit category to cover this same lifestyle program nationwide for reversing coronary heart disease.  What’s good for the heart is also beneficial for the brain.

We are at a state of scientific evidence with Alzheimer’s disease similar to 40 years ago regarding coronary heart disease when less-intensive lifestyle interventions slowed its progression but more intensive lifestyle changes were required to reverse it.  We are studying if more intensive lifestyle changes may stop or reverse the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.