Tom Mueller: Do more to address our metabolic crisis

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A lot of newsprint has been dedicated to New Brunswick’s long-term care crisis. It’s about to get a lot worse! We just went through a doozy of a flu season, not to mention a worrying spike in COVID-19 deaths. In fact, the research group ‘COVID-19 Resources Canada’ declared our province’s recent COVID-19 toll as the worst in Canada.

We now confront a surge in long-COVID cases, which could significantly impact public health in ways we are only beginning to comprehend.

According to Statistica.com, New Brunswick has the highest rates in Canada of obesity and diabetes, both indicators of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), making us more vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19. A rising tide of MetS is driving an increase in metabolic diseases (including diabetes) which in turn drives a surge in cardiovascular diseases, cancers and cognitive diseases such as dementias (e.g. Alzheimer’s).

It’s no surprise that deaths and excess mortalities are on the rise, with dementias a particular concern. Groundbreaking insights, provided by Dr. Axel Montagne of the UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, point to a possible common factor for most, if not all dementias: a leaky Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB), characterized by microbleeds in the brain segueing to destructive neuro-inflammation.

Concern grows, with research revealing a link between a leaky BBB and the cognitive impairments known as ‘brain fog’ associated with long COVID. An increase in leaky BBB numbers could translate into an equivalent increase in dementia patients requiring long-term care, unless the problem is addressed.

A growing body of research indicates this crisis could very well be prevented as well as corrected. Medical interventions include addressing the hallmarks of MetS: truncal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood triglycerides, high levels of “bad” cholesterol, and insulin resistance.

Furthermore, a variety of supplements targeting ‘metflammation’ may also repair the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Among these, Omega-3 Fatty Acids stand out, recommended by a growing cohort of experts, including Dr. Montagne. Consuming a daily dose equivalent to four fish oil capsules can not only prevent damage to the BBB but also aid in its repair. Many other lifestyle and medical interventions can come to bear, best advised by a family physician.

We find ourselves perched on a precipice of rippling repercussion, without even knowing how high the stakes might yet be. Somebody in Fredericton needs to toss this file to the very top of the “top priority” pile.

Tom Mueller is a former biomedical researcher, retired teacher and columnist for Brunswick News. He is presenting information based on scientific literature, but he is not a medical doctor and this column does not constitute medical advice.