Research suggests a relationship between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease risk, with some referring to the latter as type 3 diabetes. A high-fat diet may lead to inflammation, increasing dementia risk. A healthy diet and lifestyle are recommended to reverse this process and decrease Alzheimer’s risk. Using mice, researchers at Texas A&M University found that a high-fat diet suppressed a protein called jak3, leading to inflammation in the intestine, liver, and brain, resulting in Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. They believe controlling type 2 diabetes could reduce Alzheimer’s risk.
The study found a 56% increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes, indicating diet and lifestyle contribute to the progression towards Alzheimer’s. The jak3 protein might lead to a leaky gut, chronic inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and dementia-like symptoms. It is suggested that a healthy diet and blood sugar control can mitigate this process. Individuals with both Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes face an 81% overlap, with younger diabetes onset correlating with a higher dementia risk. High blood sugar or insulin can damage the brain, increasing Alzheimer’s risk.
The liver’s role in metabolizing food may be critical to the gut-brain connection between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s. High or low blood sugar can damage nerve and blood vessels in the brain, impacting memory, learning, mood, weight gain, and hormone regulation. Treatment for type 2 diabetes aims to prevent other health issues. Severe obesity increases the risk of heart disease, and bariatric surgery and medications can help control type 2 diabetes and reduce weight. Lifestyle changes, including diet modifications, can effectively reduce diabetes risk.
Experts recommend a diet low in carbohydrates, added sugars, and inflammation. Lean protein, wild-caught fish, grass-fed meat in moderation, healthy fats, non-starchy vegetables, eggs, nuts, seeds, low-sugar fruits, and dairy in moderation are recommended. Grass-fed meat contains anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for health. Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are effective in reducing diabetes risk. While medications like tirzepatide and semaglutide can aid in weight loss and diabetes control, taking control of one’s health through diet and lifestyle modifications is crucial.
