Q. Is there a connection between aluminum and Alzheimer's Disease?

A. Forty years ago, scientists made a pivotal discovery: aluminum injected into the brains of rabbits triggered the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, the same type found in Alzheimer’s disease. A rush of research followed—the metal was also found in diseased human brains—and soon people were tossing their aluminum-containing antiperspirants, antacids and cooking utensils.

But now, hundreds of studies later, the hypothesized link between high aluminum intake and Alzheimer’s disease has faltered. Drinking-water studies hint at an association, showing that people whose water supply contains excessive aluminum may be at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease. But the data on aluminum pots are few and circumstantial, and studies on antiperspirants and other aluminum-containing product are similarly slim. Today, most experts believe that aluminum’s role, if any, is small—and that diet and even crossword puzzles are far better places to focus anti-dementia energies.


This article grossly understates the research associating aluminium with Alzheimer’s disease. I strongly suggest it be updated or removed so as not to mislead people.


09/07/2012 - 2:03am

This comment grossly overstates the implication that there is a causal link between aluminum exposure and Alzheimer's disease, which has never been shown despite decades of research. I strongly suggest the commenter should provide evidence in the form of a peer-reviewed scientific study proving such a link that has been replicated and/or at least not been debunked, so as not to mislead people.

Also, the commenter should refrain from making fear-mongering statements without understanding the scientific background. It is quite true that data on this topic is scarce, and it is also quite true that most experts believe that aluminum's role is quite small. These are factual, verifiable claims made by this article, so as it stands, the article itself is accurate.

Jumping to conclusions based on inconclusive research is a lot more misleading than stating current expert opinion.


12/21/2012 - 7:53pm

There may be good reasons that big business does NOT want you to believe that there is a connection between aluminum,,, and Alzheimer's disease....Aluminum,,, and compounds containing Aluminum are in ALOT of the things we buy ,,, and consume..........


06/30/2013 - 7:45pm

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