Protocol · Cognitive & Brain Health
Alzheimer's Disease Protocol
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA) and Phosphatidylserine are the core of this stack, with 5 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Alzheimer's Disease.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · 4 graded · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA) | Amount listed: 1–2 g DHA daily | DHA is a major structural component of brain cell membranes; supports neuronal function and may reduce amyloid pathology
| Not graded yet | ||
| Phosphatidylserine | Amount listed: 100–300 mg daily | Essential phospholipid for neuronal membrane function; supports neurotransmitter release and cognitive function
| Grade C for Cerebral Glucose Utilization8 people | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Lion's Mane Mushroom | Amount listed: 500–3,000 mg daily | Stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, promoting neurogenesis and potentially slowing cognitive decline | Not graded yet | ||
| Curcumin | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily (enhanced absorption formula) | Crosses blood-brain barrier; anti-inflammatory and may inhibit amyloid plaque formation
| Grade C for Cognitive Decline27 people | ||
| Alpha-GPC | Amount listed: 300–600 mg 2–3× daily | Choline source that crosses BBB; supports acetylcholine synthesis, critical for memory and learning
| Grade C for Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms1 study · 261 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Alpha-GPC (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Ginkgo Biloba | Amount listed: 120–240 mg standardized extract daily | Improves cerebral blood flow, has antioxidant effects, and may modestly benefit cognitive function
| Grade D for Alzheimer's Disease Risk1 study · 2,487 people | ||
| B Vitamins (B6, B12, Folate) | Amount listed: B6 50 mg, B12 500–1,000 mcg, Folate 400–800 mcg daily | Reduce homocysteine (neurotoxic); deficiency accelerates brain atrophy and cognitive decline | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
Support alongside medical care. These supplements are not a treatment for Alzheimer's Disease. If you are being treated for it, talk to your clinician before adding one: supplements can interact with medicines.
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade C
- Grade C
- Grade C
- Grade D
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder characterized by memory loss, confusion, and eventually loss of ability to perform daily tasks. It involves the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, chronic brain inflammation, and loss of neurons—particularly those using acetylcholine. While no supplement can cure Alzheimer's, some may support brain health and potentially slow decline.
IMPORTANT: These supplements are meant to complement, not replace, medical treatment. Work closely with a neurologist for Alzheimer's care.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA) are critical for brain structure and function—DHA makes up about 40% of the fatty acids in neuronal membranes. People with higher DHA levels have lower rates of Alzheimer's. While studies in established Alzheimer's show mixed results, DHA may be more beneficial earlier in the disease process or for prevention. It has anti-inflammatory effects and may reduce amyloid accumulation.
- Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid essential for neuronal membrane function. It supports neurotransmitter release and receptor activity. Studies show it can improve memory and cognitive function in age-related decline, with FDA-qualified health claims for cognitive function.
- Lion's Mane Mushroom is unique in that it stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) production—a protein essential for neuron survival and function. This could theoretically support neuroplasticity and help maintain brain function. Studies in mild cognitive impairment show improved cognitive scores.
- Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can cross the blood-brain barrier. Laboratory studies show it can inhibit amyloid plaque formation and reduce tau tangles. Population studies in India (where turmeric consumption is high) show lower Alzheimer's rates. Use enhanced-absorption formulas.
- Alpha-GPC is the most effective choline supplement for the brain. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases acetylcholine synthesis—the neurotransmitter most affected in Alzheimer's. Studies show it improves cognitive function in dementia patients.
- Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow to the brain and has antioxidant effects. Large studies show modest benefits for cognitive function in dementia, comparable to cholinesterase inhibitors in some trials. EGb 761 is the most studied standardized extract.
- B Vitamins are essential because high homocysteine levels (common with B vitamin deficiency) are associated with faster brain atrophy and cognitive decline. Supplementation with B6, B12, and folate reduces homocysteine and significantly slows brain atrophy in people with mild cognitive impairment.
Expected timeline: Effects are gradual and aimed at slowing decline rather than reversing it. Lion's mane: 4-16 weeks. B vitamins: 8-12 weeks for homocysteine reduction. Other supplements: ongoing support over months to years.