Is THIS The New "Type 3 Diabetes?"
While new info emerges, we can take steps to protect ourselves.
by The Candidly Team
For a long time now, scientists have been studying the link between prediabetes, diabetes, and something that’s seemingly so closely related, some unofficially refer to it as “type 3 diabetes.”
That thing is Alzheimer’s disease
Calling Alzheimer’s “type 3 diabetes” isn’t something the medical community has signed off on. Many are waiting on more research, and some point out diabetes is just one of many things that can lead to different types of dementia. But one thing remains true, and that is that diabetes is a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s. And as more is learned about their connection, we can take steps to help prevent both.
So what is the link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s?
Diabetes and Alzheimer’s share many molecular and cellular features. Some studies have shown that the risk of getting Alzheimer’s is 65% higher in individuals with diabetes where other research has shown that as many as 81% of people who have Alzheimer’s also have Type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the earlier someone experiences the onset of diabetes, the higher that individual’s risk is of later developing dementia.
Diabetes is known to impact the brain in several ways that could contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia risk: These include:
Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
Excess insulin
Higher blood sugar, which increases inflammation
The exact connection between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes is still in debate,” wrote researchers in 2020. “However, it’s thought that poorly controlled blood sugar may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.”
In addition, insulin resistance has been associated with memory loss and cognitive decline. In the case of Alzheimer’s “a similar problem of insulin resistance occurs [as with diabetes] but rather than affecting the body as a whole, the effects are localized in the brain,” reported Verywell Health.
While the complex mechanics of the correlation between diabetes and Alzheimer’s are still being worked out, many of the same steps can be taken to help prevent both.
Are there steps you can take to reduce risk?
According to the CDC, these are some key ways to help reduce Alzheimer’s risk:
Take steps to maintain a healthy blood pressure (most of the following things can help).
Manage your blood sugar: Especially if you have prediabetes or diabetes but also to avoid these conditions.
Try to stay at a healthy weight.
Exercise and stay active.
Avoid smoking.
Limit how much alcohol you drink, or better yet, don’t drink at all (sorry, it’s just the truth).
Be aware of any hearing loss and seek treatment if you experience any.
Sleep enough.
5 Tips About What To Eat
And finally, here are five key, research-based pieces of advice that could help reduce risk of dementia.
1. Cut sugars
Tons of research has found that sugar increases risks of dementia and Alzheimer’s. One very recent study found that higher sugar intake and elevated blood glucose levels lead to the buildup of certain plaques in the brain and increase your chances of developing Alzheimer's. Researchers wrote that this offers “a mechanistic link between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.”
2 Eat whole foods
A 2022 study on more than 70,000 people over age 55 showed eating more whole foods can decrease dementia risk.
3. Avoid processed foods
The same study mentioned above found that for “every increase of 10% in the daily dietary intake of [ultraprocessed foods], the risk of dementia increased by 25%.” Research is continually confirming how ultraprocessed foods can accelerate cognitive decline. Lena Beal, media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, said ultraprocessed foods can include:
Baked goods
Snack cakes
Chips
Candy
Soft drinks
Sweet breakfast cereals
Ice cream
Mass-produced bread
Flavored yogurts
4. Prioritize plant-based
People who followed the MIND and Mediterranean diets showed fewer signs of Alzheimer’s: These diets are pretty plant-based, meaning lots of vegetables, especially green, leafy ones, fruit, especially berries, beans and legumes, nuts, whole grains, olive oils, some fish, and not a lot of processed foods or red meat.
5. Include whole grains
Healthy consumption of grains was associated with reduced dementia risk and with diabetes. The Mayo Clinic lists examples of whole grains as:
Barley
Bulgur, also called cracked wheat
Farro
Millet
Quinoa
Black rice
Brown rice
Red rice
Wild rice
Oatmeal
Popcorn
Whole-wheat flour
Whole-grain breakfast cereals
Whole-wheat bread, pasta or crackers
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used in place of professional advice, medical treatment, or professional care in any way. This article is not intended to be and should not be a substitute for professional care, advice or treatment. Please consult with your physician or healthcare provider before changing any health regimen. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease of any kind. Read our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
