Alzheimer’s disease risk rises with high blood sugar and insulin resistance. More than half of senior Americans have prediabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Prediabetes puts people at a higher risk of developing diabetes, because they have elevated blood sugar. The good news is, prediabetes does not have to result in type 2 diabetes as long as healthy lifestyle habits are enforced. The bad news, though, is that new research suggests having prediabetes may already be increasing one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease risk and the insulin resistance, high blood sugar link
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that impairs cognitive function and steals the memories of the individual. The latest research suggests those with elevated blood sugar are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
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The research comes from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Researchers tested the memory of 150 adults over the age of 61 who showed no signs of memory impairment. Tests for insulin resistance and brain scans were also conducted.
The findings uncovered that 40 percent of participants had a relative with Alzheimer’s disease, 40 percent had a gene mutation that increased their risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and nearly five percent had type 2 diabetes.
The findings revealed insulin resistance was linked to poor processing of sugar in the brain. Immediate memory was reduced due to lower sugar metabolism. Insulin is required by the brain to carry out signals between cells.
Researchers recommend that the best way to prevent type 2 diabetes and protect your brain is through healthy lifestyle habits.
How to reduce Alzheimer’s disease risk naturally
Although there is no exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease, research suggests that a healthy lifestyle can delay its onset. It’s important to partake in healthy habits to not only prevent Alzheimer’s disease, but to maintain a healthy overall life. Below are some tips you can use to keep your brain, and body, as healthy as possible.
- Exercise
- Eat well – fruits, vegetables, healthy fats
- Limit sugar and processed foods
- Try the Mediterranean diet
- Control blood pressure
- Keep your friends close – strong social groups have been linked to a stronger, healthier mind
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get adequate sleep
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Don’t smoke
- Treat mental health issues – depression, anxiety, etc.
- Reduce stress
By following these tips, you won’t only keep your memories, but your whole body will stay healthy as well. These tips can also help you prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
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