Book Review: The Alzheimer’s Solution by Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai

Doctors Dean and Ayesha Sherzai run the Brain Health and Alzheimer’s Prevention Program at Loma Linda University Medical Center in California.  They have written The Alzheimer’s Solution which lays out a plan they call the NEURO program to prevent and reverse the symptoms of cognitive decline.  NEURO stands for nutrition, exercise, unwind, restore and optimize.

Doctors Sherzai were doing the discouraging work of Alzheimer’s research when they started thinking about how lifestyle changes have made a huge difference with other diseases like heart disease and lung cancer.  They realized that they were near the only Blue Zone in the United States, Loma Linda, California, and they sought work at Loma Linda Hospital.  Blue Zones are geographical locations where people are said to live longer and healthier lives than average.  Loma Linda is believed to be a Blue Zone, based on the fact that it is the seat of the 7th Day Adventist Church which promotes a vegetarian diet and active lifestyle.  The hospital in Loma Linda also serves the surrounding areas which are diverse and in some cases plagued by more chronic illness than average.  This opportunity gave the Sherzais an interesting population to serve and study.

The Alzheimer’s Solution uses the results from the Sherzai’s clinical experience as well as major published research from around the globe to provide a comprehensive review of what contributes to Alzheimer’s disease, what the current thinking on the disease process is and treatment options.  It then lays out the NEURO plan with each chapter devoted to a different part of the plan.  Each chapter provides current research, at least one case study from their practice and a personalized plan.  They claim that 90% of Alzheimer’s cases can be prevented with lifestyle changes and in the remaining 10% symptoms can be delayed by 10-15 years.  These are staggering and very encouraging statistics.

The NEURO Plan

• N: Nutrition

  The Sherzais advocate for a Mediterranean diet, supported by research linking it to a 40% lower risk of Alzheimer’s. This diet emphasizes fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, occasional fish, and minimal meat consumption. They recommend a whole-food, plant-based approach, low in sugar, salt, and processed foods. The book concludes with a Mediterranean cookbook featuring simple, healthy recipes like Chickpea Sandwich, Brain Health Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Mindful Mac N Cheese.

  
  

• E: Exercise

  Aerobic exercise enhances brain health by improving blood circulation, while resistance training helps maintain bone density, muscle strength, and balance. Strong leg muscles, in particular, are linked to better cognitive function. The Sherzais encourage activities that engage multiple brain systems, such as playing sports, and stress the importance of finding enjoyable, brain-challenging exercises. Practical tips for overcoming physical limitations and a personalized exercise plan are provided.

  
  

• U: Unwind

  Chronic stress harms the brain, increasing cortisol and blood glucose levels, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The Sherzais recommend meditation to reduce stress and promote mental health. Alternatives like walking, listening to music, and creating uncluttered personal spaces are also discussed, alongside the value of a purpose-driven life.

  
  

• R: Restore

  Quality sleep is vital for cognitive health, toxin removal, memory consolidation, and overall well-being. The book explains sleep stages, the challenges of aging-related sleep issues, and the risks of sleep aids, highlighting the importance of addressing conditions like sleep apnea. Tips for improving sleep hygiene and a personalized sleep plan are included.

  
  

• O: Optimize

  Activities that engage multiple brain regions simultaneously, such as learning a new skill or conversing with friends, are essential for brain health. The Sherzais emphasize addressing hearing loss and physical discomforts that might discourage activity. They advocate for complex, rewarding pursuits over simpler brain games like Sudoku.

  
  

As a person who works with an elderly population, I often joke that the fear of dementia is an occupational hazard.  This book gave me hope for myself and my clients and provided a practical road map to hopefully reduce the chance of developing Alzheimer’s Disease and live a much healthier, happier and productive life.  I have already recommended this book many times and I recommend it again to you readers.