There are very few things that scare older adults as much as the prospect of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. In its advanced stages, the person’s memory deteriorates to the point of even family members being unrecognizable. It is a painful process for family and spouse that can last for years.

New research has shown that there is a possible connection between insulin resistance and dementia. As a result, researchers are suggesting that we may need to call dementia Type 3 diabetes.  Healthline.com recently posted an article saying, “Type 3 diabetes is a term that has been proposed to describe the theory that Alzheimer’s disease is triggered by a type of insulin resistance and insulin-like growth factor dysfunction that occurs specifically in the brain.” Thus, some use the term “diabetes for your brain.” More research is needed, but the results so far look promising.

So what does all this mean? Possibly a way to control the rate of dementia through diet.  Mayo Clinic experts have discussed the current link between Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes*.  There is a 60% greater chance of developing Alzheimer’s or Dementia if you have type 2 diabetes. So it’s essential to watch for early warning symptoms and signs.

The Alzheimer’s Association** lists the following warning signs for early Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

*Memory loss that disrupts daily life

*Challenges in planning or problem solving

*Difficulty in completing familiar tasks

*Confusion with time or place

*Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

*New problems with words in speaking or writing

*Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

*Decreased or poor judgment

*Withdrawal from work or social activities

*Changes in mood or personality

Prevention May Be Possible

So how can you avoid insulin resistance and lower your likelihood of dementia?  By controlling your insulin levels through diet and exercise.  A diet low in carbohydrates and sugars is a great place to start.  Here are some examples from Healthline.com when looking for healthy options.

Best Low Carb Fruits to consider

Watermelon

Berries

Cantaloupe

Avocados

Honeydew

Peaches

Best Low Carb Vegetables to consider

Cucumbers

Iceberg Lettuce

Celery

White Mushrooms

Spinach

Swiss Chard

Broccoli

Bell Peppers

Zucchini

Cauliflower

Asparagus

Alfalfa Sprouts

Radishes

Arugula

Radicchio

Tomatoes

More studies regarding the relationship between insulin resistance and dementia are needed. But avoiding high carbohydrate and high sugar foods is a great way to improve health and possibly avoid early onset Dementia.  To prevent insulin resistance, you should avoid sugary sodas, candy, cakes, cookies, and starchy foods.  Reading labels and learning all the other terms for sugar in the ingredient section of the product label is vital.  Our associates can advise you on ingredients to avoid.  And don’t forget to shop for fresh Organic Fruit and Vegetables in our store.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

*https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/diabetes-and-alzheimers/art-20046987

**https://www.alz.org/alzheimer_s_dementia