Type 3 Diabetes

Alzheimer's disease and sugar.　

The relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and sugar is an area of active research, with evidence suggesting that high sugar consumption and related metabolic issues may contribute to the risk or progression of Alzheimer’s, often referred to as “type 3 diabetes” in this context. Here’s a concise overview based on current understanding:

1.  Impaired Glucose Metabolism: 

Alzheimer’s disease is associated with reduced brain glucose uptake and metabolism, which can impair neuronal function. Studies, such as those from the National Institute on Aging, show that brain regions affected in Alzheimer’s, like the hippocampus, have diminished glucose utilization, potentially exacerbating cognitive decline.

2.  Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Link:

High sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, which is a significant risk factor for Alzheimer’s. A 2016 study in Diabetologia found that individuals with type 2 diabetes have a 60% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Insulin resistance in the brain may disrupt amyloid-beta clearance, leading to plaque buildup, a key Alzheimer’s feature.

3.  Glycemic Spikes and Inflammation:

Diets high in refined sugars cause blood sugar spikes, which can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation is implicated in Alzheimer’s pathology, as it may damage neurons and promote tau protein tangles, according to research in Nature Reviews Neurology (2018).

4.  Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs): Excessive sugar consumption leads to the formation of AGEs, which are harmful compounds that can accumulate in tissues, including the brain. A 2019 study in Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease suggested AGEs contribute to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage in Alzheimer’s.

5.  Lifestyle and Dietary Impact:

Diets high in sugar, like those rich in processed foods, are linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome, both of which increase Alzheimer’s risk. Conversely, low-sugar diets, such as the Mediterranean or ketogenic diets, show potential in reducing cognitive decline risk, per a 2021 Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience review.

6.  Caveats and Limitations: 

While the link is compelling, it’s not fully causal. Genetic factors (e.g., APOE4 gene), lifestyle, and other variables also play significant roles. Most studies are observational or based on animal models, so direct human evidence is limited.

Practical Takeaway: Reducing sugar intake, particularly refined sugars, and maintaining a balanced diet may lower Alzheimer’s risk by improving metabolic health and reducing inflammation. However, sugar alone isn’t the sole driver, and a holistic approach (exercise, sleep, etc.) is crucial.

My Observations:

In my experience, every Alzheimer’s patient I’ve worked with had a strong preference for sugary foods. They often added three or four teaspoons of sugar to their tea and ate doughnuts for breakfast. One patient, in particular, consumed very few non-sweet foods and would eat sweets constantly if given the chance.

I began working closely with one patient and switched them to a completely sugar-free diet. Instead of ice cream, they were given frozen bananas, and when they craved chocolate, I offered 90% dark chocolate. For snacks, I encouraged them to eat almonds or walnuts. The only fruits allowed were apples or berries. This dietary change was implemented to support their overall health.

When I first met her, she was overweight, but after a year on the sugar-free diet, she gradually lost weight and became noticeably thinner. The frequency of severe issues, such as toileting accidents, paranoia, and incoherent behavior, also decreased over time. Initially, she could only manage to eat half an egg at meals, but now she enjoys a breakfast of salmon, vegetables, and oats instead of rice, which has supported her overall health and well-being.