The Connection between Alzheimer’s and Diabetes
In the past, Alzheimer’s prevention included brain games and plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. However, more and more evidence is showing that blood sugar levels also play an important role in the development of this disease.
Diabetes is a disorder that is completely preventable with proper eating and exercise. Also, even if a person has already developed diabetes, they can reverse the disorder. When considering how to protect your future health, preventing diabetes may also help to prevent the life-altering effects of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Diabetes Across the Country
It is quite overwhelming to consider that virtually everyone in the country knows someone – a coworker, relative or friend – who suffers from Type II diabetes. Almost 21 million children and adults suffer from diabetes in the U.S. and up to 41 million people in between the ages of 40 and 74 suffer from pre-diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes, which affects less than two million people across the U.S., is a disorder when the body is unable to produce plenty of insulin. This can become a deadly problem if not managed properly.
However, Type II diabetes is far more common and during the later stages of the disorder, people will usually need insulin during the early stages; however, in many cases during the early development of the disorder, excess insulin is secreted. Once the disease has developed and moved past the early stages, insulin injections may be required, just like Type 1 diabetes.
Diabetes Related Complications and Dementia
Most of the complications related to diabetes are well-known. They include issues such as coronary artery disease, diabetic neuropathy and a loss of sensation or pain in hands and legs. There are a number of other associated issues with diabetes, as well.
However, some of the most recent studies available indicate that those suffering from diabetes also have a higher chance of developing vascular dementia. The reason behind this is pretty straight forward: much like any other blood vessel in a person’s body, the cerebral vessels that are responsible for nourishing the brand can become damaged due to excessive amounts of blood sugar. When less blood is being delivered to the brain, it can lead to the cells becoming malnourished and result in increased cell death and the development of symptoms of dementia.
Diabetes and Alzheimer’s Disease
According to some recent research, Alzheimer’s disease might be a new type of diabetes mellitus, because:
- Amyloid plaques are present in both Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes patients.
- The brain cells of patients with Alzheimer’s show insulin resistance.
- Inflammation and oxidative stress resulting from diabetes mellitus may result in neuronal damage.
This makes preventing diabetes more important than ever before. Not only will it reduce the potential off issues with blood sugar, but may also help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease down the road. Comfort Keepers in Santa Clarita understands how this disease can affect patients, as well as their family members. They can provide in-home care services for these individuals, regardless of their condition to help them live safely and enjoy life.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
