One of the dangers from taking PPIs for years is an increased risk for dementia.
What is the mechanism associated with this? We are going to look at 4 different mechanisms.

The first is the creation of a magnesium deficiency.
 
Magnesium is essential for producing neurotransmitters. GABA is such an example and with low GABA you can experience cognitive dysfunction along with anxiety and insomnia.

Magnesium is anti-inflammatory. If its low oxidative damage occurs to nerve tissue along with reduced blood flow to nerves. Oxidative damage is akin to rust on metal but in your body the damage is to your cells, DNA and tissues. It can lead to advanced aging, cancer, Alzheimer's and heart disease.

Magnesium also plays a role in electrical stability. When it's low nerves get overstimulated and can result in tremors, twitching and even seizures.

The next mechanism involves a vitamin B12 deficiency.
With low B12 methylation is impaired which causes neuroinflammation, increased risk of stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

Vitamin B12 insulates your nerves so when deficient is disrupts nerve signaling, critical for brain function.

Third involves nitric oxide production.
PPIs inhibit the conversion of nitrates in foods to nitrites and then on to nitric oxide (NO). The conversion requires an acidic pH which is which PPIs inhibit its production.

NO is a vasodilator, maintaining blood flow to the brain and preventing oxidative stress.
NO also plays a role in neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity (important for learning and memory) and neuroprotection (protecting you from dangerous neuroinflammation).

Finally PPIs cause microbiome disruption which leads to leaky gut. With a leaky gut inflammatory molecules can enter your bloodstream and cross to your brain causing neuroinflammation which leads to dementia.

More research needs to occur but the mechanisms are sound and it makes sense that longer exposure to PPIs can influence brain health.

If you would like help getting to the root cause of your reflux so that you don't have to continue a PPI, we're here to help. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation so that we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.

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