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Is Your Blood Sugar Giving You “Diabetes of the Brain”?

If you’re living with diabetes, you’re probably laser-focused on your blood sugar levels.

But here’s something that might surprise you: those same blood sugar swings could be aging your brain decades faster than normal.

In fact, some scientists are now calling Alzheimer’s disease “Type 3 diabetes” or “diabetes of the brain.”

And if that doesn’t grab your attention, nothing will.

Let’s explore this frightening connection between the brain and blood sugar… and how you can protect yourself.

A groundbreaking study from the VA Boston Healthcare System has uncovered a critical link between blood sugar control and your risk of developing dementia.

They found that veterans who kept their blood sugar levels stable within personalized target ranges had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

And surprisingly, having blood sugar that’s too low can be just as dangerous as having it too high when it comes to brain health.

The study also looked at something called “HbA1c time in range” (TIR). This measures how often your blood sugar stays within your target range over time. The higher your TIR, the lower your risk of dementia.

And having your blood sugar consistently below your target range was associated with the highest risk of dementia.

The study also found that diabetes can accelerate the onset of multiple health problems, including dementia, by 15-20 years. That means a 50-year-old with diabetes might have the brain health issues typically seen in a 65 or 70-year-old without diabetes.

But why does this happen? Here’s where the “Type 3 diabetes” concept comes in:

See, just like the rest of your body, your brain needs insulin to function properly.

In diabetes, your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. This insulin problem can affect your brain, leading to inflammation and damage to brain cells. Over time, this damage can lead to the symptoms we associate with Alzheimer’s disease.

The brain’s inability to properly use glucose for energy can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss.

Now, this might sound scary. But there are steps you can take to protect your brain:

Work with your doctor: Establish personalized blood sugar targets that are right for you. Remember, what’s right for someone else might not be right for you.

Monitor consistently: Regular blood sugar checks can help you stay in your target range. Consider using a continuous glucose monitor for more detailed insights.

Eat a brain-healthy diet: Focus on foods that are good for both blood sugar and brain health, like leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish. The Mediterranean diet has shown promise for both diabetes management and brain health.

Stay active: Regular exercise is great for both diabetes management and brain health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your blood sugar and your brain. Try stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Prioritize sleep: Poor sleep can affect both blood sugar control and cognitive function. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Stay socially active: Social engagement can help keep your brain sharp. Join a club, volunteer, or simply spend more time with friends and family.

And here’s something else to consider—natural supplements might give you an extra edge in managing your blood sugar and protecting your brain. While they’re not a replacement for medication or lifestyle changes, these two supplements show promise:

Alpha-lipoic acid: This powerful antioxidant has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and may protect against cognitive decline. Some studies suggest it could even help regenerate damaged nerve cells. A typical dose is 600-1200 mg per day, but always consult with your doctor first.

Curcumin: The active compound in turmeric, curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It may help improve insulin sensitivity and has shown potential in protecting against Alzheimer’s disease in animal studies. Look for supplements that include piperine (from black pepper) to improve absorption. A common dose is 500-2000 mg per day, but again, check with your healthcare provider.

Remember, always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re taking diabetes medications. Some supplements can interact with medications or affect blood sugar levels, so professional guidance is crucial.

The link between diabetes and dementia is real, but it’s not a death sentence. By taking control of your blood sugar now, you’re not just managing your diabetes—you’re protecting your brain for years to come. It’s never too late to start making positive changes for your health.

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Outsmart dementia with nature’s blueprint… click here for details.

Sources:

Type 3 diabetes: Causes, symptoms, treatment, comparison. (2021, July 30). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/type-3-diabetes#outlook

Ian, P. (2024, August 7). Type 2 diabetes: Stable A1C levels may be linked to lower dementia risk. Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stable-a1c-levels-may-be-linked-lower-dementia-risk-type-2-diabetes#Future-research-on-diabetes-and-Alzheimers

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