When you or a senior you care about receives an Alzheimer's diagnosis, the lack of understanding regarding the condition's causes and treatment options may be disheartening. However, researchers think they are gaining an understanding of a potential link between diabetes and Alzheimer's.

Here is what we know now as scientists

Does Evidence Support the Theory That Type 3 Diabetes Is a Contributing Factor to Alzheimer's Disease?

Since 2005, there has been increasingly solid proof that dementia and insulin resistance are related. Some experts have even coined the term "Type 3 diabetes" to refer to Alzheimer's disease.

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the lack of information about the disease's causes and current treatments may be distressing. However, researchers believe they are making progress in their knowledge of a possible connection between diabetes and Alzheimer's.

Here is what scientists now understand

Is There Evidence to Support the Theory that Alzheimer's Is Caused by Type 3 Diabetes?

Since 2005, the evidence for a connection between insulin resistance and dementia has been stronger. Some scientists have even started to call Alzheimer's disease type 3 diabetes.

According to studies, Alzheimer's disease is twice as likely to affect seniors who have diabetes. Nearly 26% of people over 65 who are adults have diabetes. Eight out of ten elderly people have Alzheimer's disease.

Although the cause-and-effect relationship between these two disorders is unclear, experts are convinced that elevated blood sugar can have a detrimental influence on brain function.

Effects of blood sugar on brain health

When the body doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't handle it effectively, type 2 diabetes develops. Blood vessels in the body are put under increasingly severe stress when blood sugar levels rise. The brain's blood vessels fall into this category. As a result, the brain's arteries start to harden and constrict, which reduces the amount of blood that can get to the brain. As a result, an older adult's cognitive ability could deteriorate.

Additionally, too much sugar might prevent the brain from breaking down fatty membranes. These membranes come together to create the plaques and tangles seen in Alzheimer's patients.

Reducing your diabetes risk

Although the exact etiology of Alzheimer's disease is still unknown, experts think there are lifestyle choices that may help postpone or prevent its beginning. Reduce your chances of developing diabetes as a result of this.

The American Diabetes Association lists a few preventative measures you may take, such as:

Eating healthy: Well-balanced meals that combine proteins, grains, and non-starchy veggies are a sign of good nutrition. You may learn more by using an interactive tool called Create the Plate.

Regular Exercise: The majority of medical professionals advise 150 minutes of exercise spread out throughout the week.

Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, you should find a means to stop. Numerous initiatives have been developed to make quitting smoking easier.

Limit Your Alcohol Intake: While some studies suggest a daily glass of red wine may be good for your heart, drinking too much alcohol might be harmful to your health. Consult your doctor for guidance.

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