The Low Down On DMAE

DMAE, (short for di-methyl-amino-ethanol) is a chemical found in foods such as sardines and anchovies. It is also made in small amounts in the brain. In the body, DMAE is converted to choline which, in turn, is converted to the brain chemical acetylcholine. DMAE is advocated for a number of conditions, the most popular of which include skin wrinkling, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit disorder.

DMAE and Wrinkles

DMAE is thought to be a precursor to the brain chemical acetylcholine. Aside from working inside the brain, acetylcholine is also involved with sending nerve impulses from the brain to the muscles. Because of this, some feel DMAE can decrease wrinkles. The theory is that using DMAE topically on the skin will increase muscle tone and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. For this reason DMAE is sometimes found in anti-aging cosmetics. Preliminary evidence does indicate that a 3% topical solution of DMAE may make the skin more firm. While interesting, further research should be performed before these claims are fully accepted.

DMAE and Alzheimer's Disease

The claims that DMAE may help Alzheimer's disease are, again, related to the brain chemical acetylcholine. In Alzheimer's disease, brain cells that make acetylcholine are damaged. So, the theory is that if you can replace acetylcholine, Alzheimer's will improve.  However, the research to date does not show that DMAE can help Alzheimer's disease. In fact, some evidence shows that DMAE may increase confusion levels as well as blood pressure. It is generally felt that DMAE supplements cannot help Alzheimer's suffers or people with other forms of dementia.

Side Effects and Concerns

DMAE supplements should be used with caution by those with schizophrenia or depression as it may worsen these conditions. Likewise, DMAE supplements should be avoided by people who have epilepsy or any seizure disorder. People with Parkinson's disease may also be inappropriate for DMAE. In theory, DMAE may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat Parkinson's. In addition, there is some evidence that DMAE may increase the likelihood of some seizures. Lastly, because spikes in blood pressure have also been noted by some who use DMAE, those with hypertension should exercise caution when using this supplement until more is known.

About the author: Joe Cannon, MS, CSCS, is an exercise physiologist, personal trainer, writer and health educator. He is the author of Nutritional Supplements: What Works and Why. A Comprehensive Review from A to Zinc and Nutrition Essentials, a Guidebook for the Fitness Professional. For more information visit his official website www.Joe-Cannon.com or drop Joe an email directly at JoeCannon@rcn.com