Back in 2005, a leading study suggested that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) might be another form of diabetes – proceeding studies have since backed up this groundbreaking research. The study, published in the November 2005 issue of The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, found that insulin production in the brain declines as Alzheimer's disease (AD) advances.
"Many of the unexplained features of AD, such as cell death and tangles in the brain, appear to be linked to abnormalities in insulin signalling. This demonstrates that the disease is most likely another type of diabetes," the senior researcher of the study Suzanne de la Monte reported.
A distinguishing feature of Alzheimer's is low levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. The research team found that low levels of acetylcholine are directly linked to loss of insulin and insulin-like growth-factor function in the brain. Insulin levels drop progressively as the disease becomes more severe.
"We’re able to show that insulin impairment happens early in the disease, that it’s linked to major neurotransmitters responsible for cognition, that it’s linked to poor energy metabolism, and it’s linked to abnormalities that contribute to the tangles characteristic of advanced AD. This work ties several concepts together and demonstrates that AD is quite possibly a type-3 diabetes," said de la Monte.
Can Alzheimer's be prevented?
As so little is understood about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent it.
While it tends to run in families, you won’t necessarily develop it. If you are concerned that you might develop it, your best strategy is to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
These strategies include:
- Eating a nutritious diet, increasing the amount of fresh vegetables (low-GI carbs that are also high in folate) and limiting grains and sugars (which can cause insulin levels to spike).
- Eating fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Folic acid supplements can reportedly boost poor cognitive function
- Controling your blood pressure
- Getting regular exercise – it helps you to control your weight and enhances mental wellbeing.
- Keep your brain sharp by doing crosswords and reading
- Challenging your mind (with puzzles, and new skills and experiences) to encourage it to make new connections between brain cells.
- Having a strong social support. A network of friends and good social life can reportedly help stave off Alzheimer’s.