Diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease are two common conditions that affect millions of people. Recent research suggests there may be a link between these two conditions, especially between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Many myALZteam members and their caregivers have shared their experiences managing both diabetes and Alzheimer’s. One said, “My husband’s sudden-onset diabetes, which was a totally unexpected development at age 80, has certainly complicated our world!”

Another shared, “I’ve been trying to stay busy. I’ve been having issues with my diabetes, so lots of doctors’ appointments, blood work, etc. I have to pick myself up, brush myself off, and continue on nevertheless.”

In this article, we’ll explore how and why these conditions might be connected. We’ll also look at the risks and what can be done to manage them.

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is a health condition that affects how your body handles sugar, or glucose.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body can’t make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells to be used for energy. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to live.

Type 2 diabetes happens when your body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t respond well to it. Poor response is called insulin resistance. This causes too much sugar to stay in your blood. Over time, high blood sugar can cause serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Type 2 diabetes is much more common than type 1.

Effects on the Body and Brain

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, including the brain. This damage can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, and neuropathy (nerve damage ).

In the brain, high blood sugar can impair cognitive functions (brain skills) and raise the risk of developing dementia, including vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk of developing dementia and related conditions.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease causes damage to the brain over time. Brain cells die, causing memory loss and making it harder to think clearly. Alzheimer’s is the main cause of dementia. Scientists don’t fully know what causes Alzheimer’s, but it likely involves a mix of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Alzheimer’s

Researchers have found several ways diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease might be linked.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance, which is a defining feature of type 2 diabetes, may also affect the brain. Insulin is not only crucial for regulating blood sugar but also supports brain function. When the brain develops insulin resistance, cognitive function (such as thinking and memory) can suffer. This may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Type 3 Diabetes

Some researchers use the term “type 3 diabetes” to describe the idea that Alzheimer’s is a form of diabetes that affects the brain. It suggests that insulin resistance plays a role in forming amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, two potential causes of Alzheimer’s. However, it’s important to note that “type 3 diabetes” is not an official medical diagnosis.

Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is common in both diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. High blood sugar levels can lead to high blood pressure, which can trigger inflammation. This inflammation can damage brain cells and lead to cognitive decline. Obesity can also cause inflammation, which may contribute to Alzheimer’s.

Blood Vessel Health

Diabetes can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the brain. This can lead to vascular dementia, a condition caused by poor blood supply to the brain, and might also play a role in Alzheimer’s. Some studies suggest that damage to blood vessels in the eyes could indicate Alzheimer’s disease progression.

Managing Diabetes To Lower Alzheimer’s Risk

Managing diabetes effectively may help lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or slow cognitive decline. Here are some ways to manage diabetes based on what doctors and researchers know today:

• Keep your blood sugar under control — Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range can help prevent damage to blood vessels and nerves, including those in your brain.
• Eat healthy and stay active — A healthy diet and regular physical activity are crucial for managing diabetes and supporting brain health. Aim for a diet with lots of vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• See your doctor regularly — Regular appointments with a healthcare provider can help monitor and manage diabetes. Early detection and treatment of high blood sugar levels and other risk factors can prevent complications and support your overall health.

Even though people with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease, it doesn’t mean they definitely will. Managing your diabetes well with lifestyle changes and medical care may lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other conditions.

Understanding the link between these two conditions can help you take charge of your health and maybe even lower your risk of cognitive decline.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myALZteam, the social network for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones, more than 86,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with the condition.

Have you been diagnosed with diabetes and Alzheimer’s? How do you manage the two conditions? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.