A simple blood test developed by Italian researchers could help predict whether the memory loss often suffered by seniors is the first sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
This blood test makes it possible to check the level of copper in the blood because it would seem that a high level of this trace element would predispose to the disease.
A check of the cupremia
For this study, researchers at Fatabenefratelli Hospital in Rome studied the copper levels in the blood of 141 people with mild cognitive impairment, a very common form of memory loss in older people. The researchers checked more particularly the rate of “free copper” which circulates in the blood (copper) instead of being assimilated by the stomach and the small intestine.
Previous research had already shown that too much copper was linked to cell damage. This new study, which has just been published in the Annals of Neurology shows that people with high levels of free copper have a 50% risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease within four years of having a blood test, while people with low copper levels have a 20% risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. develop.
“This simple test could indicate which people are at risk and could allow them to avoid all copper intake in their diet,” says Dr. Squitti, who led this study. The doctor believes that a high level of free copper prevents the brain from properly getting rid of certain toxic proteins that eventually form beta-amyloid plaques, a telltale sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
Remember that the foods richest in copper are veal, lamb, game and beef. Reducing our meat consumption therefore seems to be the first step in slowing down cognitive decline.
