Dr Bredesen London meeting: what we learned
Quick answer
After meeting Dr Dale Bredesen in London, we are highlighting key points in how Bredesen Protocol patients are supported: checking oxygen saturation, especially at night; caring for oral health, as gum disease is linked with cognitive decline; and combining photomodulation light therapy with quantitative EEG (QEEG).
Jean and I have just returned from a very productive trip to London where we met Dr. Dale Bredesen.
As always, in addition to discussing individual cases, a big part of the meeting revolves around the latest thoughts on what is working with Bredesen Protocol patients internationally.
At this meeting, he outlined 4 key issues that are making a huge difference to patient outcomes worldwide.
Oxygen levels
It appears that some patients may have low levels of oxygen saturation, especially at night. This is more so for our patients with vascular issues, but he suggests that all patients need to be checked. Oximeters that measure oxygen saturation are very inexpensive and easy to use and can easily be done at home.
Oral hygiene
Earlier this year studies came out that showed the strong correlation between gum disease and cognitive decline. Dr. Bredesen said that patients that are doing oil pulling and using dentalcidin appear to be getting better results (more links below). This will also reduce the good bacteria orally, so needs to be followed up with a dental probiotic. There is also now testing available to determine whether any organisms residing in the mouth are harmful. The thinking is that some of the amyloid being laid down is a protection against viruses and toxins. Jean is very focused on this with the herbal medicine but in some cases, we will also be adding in additional antivirals.
Photomodulation
Dr Dale Bredesen spoke very highly of combining photomodulation (light therapy) with Quantitive EEG which we are now able to provide in house. There are several good research projects running that combine photomodulation with QEEG so we eagerly await those results.
For our local patients, this will be a very beneficial add on to our practice (https://www.cogmission.co.uk/neurofeedback/)
Common questions
Why do oxygen levels at night matter for memory and thinking?
Dr Bredesen says some patients may have low oxygen saturation, especially at night, and that this is more likely in people with vascular issues. He suggests all patients are checked. Oximeters that measure oxygen saturation are very inexpensive and easy to use, and checks can be done at home.
Is gum disease linked to cognitive decline?
Studies published earlier this year showed a strong correlation between gum disease and cognitive decline. Dr Bredesen reported that patients doing oil pulling and using dentalcidin appear to get better results. This can reduce good oral bacteria, so it needs to be followed up with a dental probiotic.
What is photomodulation with QEEG?
Photomodulation is light therapy. Dr Bredesen spoke very highly of combining it with quantitative EEG (QEEG), which we now provide in house. Several research projects are combining the two, and we are waiting for their results before drawing conclusions.
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for personal medical advice. Please speak to your GP (family doctor) or a qualified practitioner before making changes to medication or treatment.