Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s: The Diabetes Type 3 Connection
Did you know there may be a link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease?
Doctors and scientists are now calling Alzheimer’s "Type 3 diabetes" because of how it affects the brain. Let’s explore what this means—and why it matters.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. It slowly damages the brain and causes memory loss, confusion, and trouble thinking. It affects over 6 million Americans and is more common in people over 65 years old [1].
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where your body doesn’t use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps control blood sugar. Over time, high blood sugar can damage many parts of the body—including the brain.
What Is “Type 3 Diabetes”?
Some researchers use the term “Type 3 diabetes” to describe Alzheimer’s disease that may be linked to insulin resistance in the brain [2].
Here’s how it works:
The brain needs insulin to use glucose (sugar) for energy.
In people with insulin resistance, brain cells may not get enough fuel.
This can lead to brain aging, memory loss, and brain cell damage—just like in Alzheimer’s.
This doesn’t mean diabetes always causes Alzheimer’s. But people with type 2 diabetes do have a higher risk of getting Alzheimer’s later in life.
How Are Diabetes and Alzheimer’s Connected?
Several studies show strong links between the two conditions:
✅ People with type 2 diabetes have up to 60% higher risk of getting Alzheimer’s [3]
✅ Diabetes can cause inflammation, which may damage brain cells
✅ High blood sugar can lead to plaque buildup in the brain, a key sign of Alzheimer’s
✅ Insulin resistance may affect how the brain clears beta-amyloid, a toxic protein found in Alzheimer’s
What Are the Signs of Alzheimer’s?
Early warning signs include:
Trouble remembering names or events
Getting lost or confused
Trouble finding words
Mood changes
Repeating the same questions
These signs get worse over time. If you or a loved one notice changes, talk to your doctor.
Can You Lower Your Risk?
The good news: You can take steps to protect your brain—even if you have diabetes.
1. Control Blood Sugar
Keeping blood sugar in range can lower your risk. Aim for an A1c below 7%, or the target your doctor sets.
2. Eat Brain-Healthy Foods
Choose a diet rich in:
Leafy greens
Berries
Healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts)
Fish
These foods are part of the MIND diet, which has been shown to lower Alzheimer’s risk [4].
3. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and brain function. Try to get at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
4. Get Good Sleep
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep is linked to higher Alzheimer’s risk.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress increases inflammation. Try breathing exercises, journaling, or spending time in nature.
6. Challenge Your Brain
Play memory games, read books, or learn something new. Keep your brain active.
Bottom Line
Alzheimer’s is a serious brain disease. Type 2 diabetes increases your risk—but there are ways to protect your brain.
That’s why some doctors call Alzheimer’s “Type 3 diabetes.” It's a reminder that what you eat, how you move, and how you manage blood sugar all affect your brain health too.
It’s never too late to make changes. Start with one small step today—for your brain, your body, and your future.
References
CDC. What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htmde la Monte, S.M., & Wands, J.R. (2008). Alzheimer’s disease is type 3 diabetes–evidence reviewed. J Diabetes Sci Technol. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16483897/
Biessels, G.J., Staekenborg, S., Brunner, E., Brayne, C., & Scheltens, P. (2006). Risk of dementia in diabetes mellitus: a systematic review. Lancet Neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2769828/
Morris, M.C., Tangney, C.C., Wang, Y., et al. (2015). MIND diet slows cognitive decline with aging. Alzheimer's & Dementia. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4532650/
