Research suggests Having diabetes may increase your risk of dementiaThere are several ways diabetes can affect dementia. Abnormal blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, and other chronic diseases related to diabetes can damage the brain over time.
- Abnormal blood sugar levels can affect your memory.
Stable blood sugar levels are essential for thinking clearly. But if you have diabetes, frequent fluctuations in your blood sugar can impair your ability to think clearly. In addition, high and low blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the brain, making it harder for oxygen to reach the brain. This damage can lead to the development of dementia.
- Insulin resistance can lead to the destruction of brain cells.
When you have diabetes, your body's cells don't respond properly to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to problems like inflammation and brain cell damage, both of which can increase your risk of dementia.
- Health conditions related to diabetes are also risk factors for dementia.
Diabetes can lead to health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems. All of these chronic diseases can damage the brain and increase the chances of dementia.
The good news is that controlling your diabetes can reduce your chances of developing dementia.
Managing diabetes with medication and lifestyle choices can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin resistance, and prevent other chronic diseases. Lifestyle choices that can reduce your risk of dementia include:
- Do 2.5 hours of aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, dancing, or biking
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Keep your mind active with activities like puzzles and learning new skills
- Stay connected with friends and family
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep each night
Work closely with your healthcare team to create a diabetes plan that fits your needs. Effectively managing your diabetes and adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve your overall health and potentially reduce your risk of dementia.
Sheldon Rickron, MD, is an associate professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and a co-investigator in the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation.