Reversing Alzheimer's, Stroke damage and Parkinsons
- Ethan Leeds
- Jul 27
- 2 min read
TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile acid derivative naturally found in small amounts in your body, especially in bile. Originally studied for its liver-protective effects, it’s now gaining attention as a mitochondria-supporting, neuro-protective powerhouse.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes TUDCA so exciting, especially in relation to brain and mitochondrial health:

🔬 What TUDCA Does at a Cellular Level
Supports mitochondrial function: TUDCA helps stabilize the mitochondrial membrane, preventing cell death (apoptosis) triggered by mitochondrial dysfunction.
Reduces ER stress: It’s one of the few known molecules that can relieve endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, insulin resistance, and even some cancers.
Anti-inflammatory + antioxidant: TUDCA reduces damaging oxidative stress in cells — especially important in the brain.
🧠 Brain Benefits (Backed by Research)
1. 🧠 Stroke Protection
Study: PMID: 12721362
Findings: TUDCA reduced infarct (damage) size by ~50% in animal models of stroke.
How? It suppresses apoptosis (programmed cell death), boosts blood flow, and preserves neuronal function.
2. 🧠 Alzheimer’s Disease Study: PMID: 19935406
Findings: In Alzheimer’s models, TUDCA improved memory, reduced amyloid beta toxicity, and prevented brain cell death.
3. 🧠 Parkinson’s Disease
Study: PMID: 22773138
Findings: TUDCA rescued dopamine neurons — the very cells that die off in Parkinson’s — and improved motor behavior in mice.
4. 🧠 Brain Blood Flow & Barrier Protection
Study: PMID: 31778648
TUDCA helps maintain blood-brain barrier integrity and increases cerebral blood flow, both critical for preventing neuro-degeneration.
🧬 Why It’s a Mitochondrial Ally
Many chronic conditions — from brain fog to full-blown neuro-degenerative diseases — involve mitochondrial dysfunction. TUDCA:
Shields mitochondria from oxidative stress
Restores ATP production (cellular energy)
Prevents mitochondrial-triggered apoptosis
Helps detox damaged cells by improving cell signalling
💊 Should You Supplement?
TUDCA is available as a dietary supplement, usually dosed between 250–1,500 mg/day, depending on the condition. It's often stacked with NAC, CoQ10, or PQQ for broader mitochondrial support.
⚠️ Caution: Though generally considered safe, high doses may cause GI upset. Always check for liver conditions or gallbladder issues with a healthcare provider.
🧠 Bottom Line
TUDCA isn’t just a liver supplement — it’s a mitochondrial modulator and brain defender. If you’re looking at long-term cognitive health, neuro-protection, or mitochondrial recovery (from stress, toxins, or aging), TUDCA is one of the most promising compounds available. Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12721362/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1471491408000026 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22773138/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19935406/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31778648/




Comments