2024-02-16 12:35:49
When memory deteriorates somewhat with age, those affected often ask themselves whether there might be an onset of dementia such as Alzheimer’s and what can be done about it.
There are a whole range of products available on the Internet that are intended to strengthen memory. These also include products with an extract from the Ginkgo biloba plant.
A reader wanted to know from us whether these can actually protect against Alzheimer’s or other dementia, as some Internet sites claim. That’s why we looked for studies that examined this question.
Ginkgo biloba probably does not protect against dementia
We actually found large, well-done studies on this. A total of more than 5,000 people over the age of 70 took part, all of whom were mentally fit at the start of the study [Quellen 1,2,4]. Half of them took a ginkgo extract, the other half a placebo.
However, the results were rather negative: over the course of five or more years, a similar number of participants with ginkgo developed dementia as with placebo. Ginkgo does not seem to be able to prevent dementia. Because there are still unanswered questions, our assessment is not completely certain (see the Studies section in detail).
Unclear help for existing memory problems
Two studies have also examined whether ginkgo can prevent existing memory problems from progressing to dementia [Quelle 1]. However, the two studies on those affected over the age of 60 came to contradictory results. It remains unclear whether ginkgo can help older people who already have mild problems with memory and mental performance.
There is only evidence that ginkgo is effective in people who have already been diagnosed with dementia (see our fact check). However, the effect is likely to be temporary at best and is not well secured.
Ginkgo preparations can also have side effects. We have described these in our fact check on the treatment of dementia that has already occurred.
What protects against dementia?
If you often forget something as you get older, it is not easy to assess whether this is still normal – or a sign of mental decline. Sometimes memory problems are a sign of a so-called mild cognitive disorder, which can progress over time to dementia such as Alzheimer’s. However, there are also other causes of forgetfulness, such as depression, thyroid problems or a lack of vitamin B12. A medical examination will provide clarity here [Quellen 5,6].
Many research groups have tried to find out what can protect against dementia. There doesn’t seem to be a miracle cure, as our research into various remedies shows: spermidine, multivitamin preparations, thyme, bacopa, orange juice, turmeric or coffee.
You may be able to reduce your risk of dementia by getting enough exercise, being mentally active and staying in contact with other people. However, how great the protective effect of all this really is has not been sufficiently researched [Quelle 7]. Further information on preventing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be found on the websites Gesundheitinformation.de and Gesundheit.gv.at.
Statistically speaking, older people with memory problems have a slightly higher risk of later developing dementia. However, this is by no means the case for all those affected [Quelle 8].
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