Nutrient cocktail holds benefits for Alzheimer's patients

A cocktail of nutrients developed by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) could be integral to the improvement of memory in patients with early onset Alzheimer's.

Trials have shown the mixture is capable of overcoming the loss of connections between brain cells.

The cocktail, known as Souvenaid, has been observed to stimulate growth of new synapses in the brains of those with Alzheimer's disease.

Dr Richard Wurtman, a professor emeritus of brain and cognitive sciences of MIT, created the concoction from choline, uridine and the omega-3 fatty acid DHA.

All three are naturally occurring dietary compounds and are known precursors to the lipid molecules that make up brain-cell membranes, which form synapses.

However, the efficacy of the compounds is only realised when administered together, Dr Wurtman stresses.

Nonetheless, previous studies have propounded the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for treating Alzheimer's disease by preventing the development of two brain lesions.

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