Britain launches milkshake that helps fight Alzheimer's

A milkshake said to contain "memory boosting" nutrients that reduce symptoms of early Alzheimer's went on sale in Britain Monday.

The drink contains nutrients like those found in breast milk, the Daily Mail reported.

The milkshake came after a decade of research into a formula said to improve the brain function of people in the early stages of the disease.

Taken 125 ml once a day, the drink "Souvenaid" has ingredients that work together to boost brain cells important for memory.

It contains omega 3 fatty acids, the nutrient found in fish which is known to be good for the brain.

It also contains two other compounds normally present in blood -- uridine, produced by liver and kidneys and found in breast milk, and choline found in meat, nuts and eggs -- along with B vitamins.

Studies carried out by researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology suggest it helps improve memory performance after six months in people with mild Alzheimer's who are not taking drugs.

However, a study on people with moderate Alzheimer's who were on prescribed medication found no improvement, the daily said.

Around 800,000 people in Britain live with dementia, of which Alzheimer's disease is the most common form. - IANS