Diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease are two of the most common causes of death in the United States, and in the past few decades, scientists have seen a rise in both. Diabetes is a disease in which the body is not able to process sugars regularly, and the cardiovascular system is put in great danger–especially when the disease is not controlled well with regular insulin management and careful attention to diet. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia and the seventh leading cause of death in the United States–causes severe memory loss and decline in muscle functioning, and eventually, death. So what is the link between these two diseases?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there may be a link between diabetes and developing Alzheimer’s disease. It is unclear exactly why, but scientists do know that high blood sugar can harm the brain by raising the risk of heart disease and stroke, which strains and weakens the blood vessels. Since Alzheimer’s is caused by plaques and stresses on the brain, any further damage to the brain’s veins and arteries quite possibly magnifies the development of plaque.
The brain is also affected when there is any chemical imbalance, such as having too much insulin and too high (or low) blood sugar, and these changes may trigger the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Lastly, high blood sugar also causes inflammation, which damages brain cells and may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other diseases.
In order to reduce the risk of developing diabetes–or to help control the disease if one already does have it–it is important to keep in mind the following key lifestyle habits:
- Diet high in fiber and low in processed foods (see our previous article on the connection between processed foods and brain health Part 1 here, Part 2 here).
- Exercise, at least 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week
- Drink plenty of water (8, 8 ounce cups per day)
Although there is no cure and ultimately no way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, there are ways to reduce the risk of its development, and to help keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy if we do develop the disease. Eating right and exercising are always a good idea!
by Michelle Kicherer of www.BananaPitch.com