As a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) I am passionate about the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and brain health. Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, has become a significant health concern in recent years. In this blog post I explore what Alzheimer’s is, why it’s being referred to as “Type 3 Diabetes,” and how you can support your body to prevent cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s through a functional and holistic approach.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by the progressive loss of memory, cognitive function, and ability to perform everyday tasks. Over the past decade, the rates of Alzheimer’s have surged, making it a critical public health issue. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s is expected to triple by 2050 if current trends continue. Below you can see the that the risks for Alzheimer’s can be greatly reduced with healthy diet and lifestyle choices! So start NOW to improve your health span and stay physically and mentally healthy well into your ‘golden years’!

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s:

Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.

Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Age: The risk increases significantly with age, particularly after 65.

Genetics: Family history and specific genetic markers, like APOE-e4, can elevate risk.

Why Alzheimer’s is Being Called “Type 3 Diabetes”

Recent research has uncovered a strong link between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s, leading some experts to refer to it as “Type 3 Diabetes.” Dr. Mark Hyman, a leading figure in functional medicine, explains this connection in detail. Insulin resistance in the brain can impair neuronal function and promote the formation of amyloid plaques, which are hallmark features of Alzheimer’s disease.

Key Points from Dr. Hyman:

• Insulin’s Role: Insulin is not only crucial for blood sugar regulation but also for brain cell communication and growth.
• Insulin Resistance: When brain cells become resistant to insulin, they struggle to obtain glucose, leading to impaired function and cell death.
• Diet and Lifestyle: High-sugar diets and sedentary lifestyles can exacerbate insulin resistance, increasing the risk of cognitive decline.

For more detailed insights, you can read Dr. Hyman’s full discussion on this topic here.

How to Support Your Body and Prevent Cognitive Decline and Alzheimer’s

1. Nutrient-Dense Diet:

• Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which support brain health.
• Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Whole Grains and Fiber: Fiber helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels and support gut health, which is crucial for overall brain function. Vegetable fibers are superior over grains, but both can be incorporated into a balanced diet. When eating grains, a focus on gluten free grains like brown rice, quinoa, and gluten free oats can be less inflammatory for most people.

2. Regular Exercise:

• Engage in both aerobic and resistance training exercises to improve blood flow to the brain and promote neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons.

3. Cognitive Stimulation:

• Activities like puzzles, reading, learning new skills, and social interactions can help maintain cognitive function and promote neuroplasticity. Learning a new language at any age is a wonderful way to keep your brain active!

4. Sleep and Stress Management:

• Prioritize quality sleep and practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress and poor sleep can negatively impact brain health.

5. Avoid Toxins:

• Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and heavy metals, which can accumulate in the brain and contribute to neurodegeneration. Consider an air filter for your bedroom and be sure to checkout my blog post about cleaning up your household products!

6. Regular Health Check-Ups:

Monitor and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, which are linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Consider working with a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner or Functional Dr. to holistically support your body and try and reverse or stop the progression of these diseases!

Preventing Alzheimer’s and supporting brain health requires a holistic and functional approach. By incorporating nutrient-dense foods, regular physical activity, cognitive stimulation, and stress management into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of cognitive decline. Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start taking steps toward a healthier brain.

This is not medical advice and not intended to treat or cure any disease or affliction. Please consult your medical professional before utilizing the techniques and tools listed above.

Struggling with unexplained symptoms but your Doctor keeps telling you that your labs look good!? Don’t lose hope, there IS more you can do!
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References

1. Hyman, M. (2016, February 12). Why Alzheimer’s is Now Considered Type 3 Diabetes. Dr. Hyman.
2. Dr. Hyman’s official website: Dr. Hyman.
3. PubMed: Alzheimer’s and Nutrition.