In the News--Can we avoid Alzheimer's disease?

This headline refers to research that is piling up.  Researchers are recognizing that diabetes and Alzheimer’s are connected.  People with out of control diabetes are being recognized as increasingly risky for developing Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, some researchers are calling Alzheimer’s disease, “type 3 diabetes.” 

As I have pointed out the last few weeks, out of control diabetes does harm quietly to our blood vessels, hearts, kidneys, and other parts of our bodies.  Why not consider that it can damage our brains?  While we need some sugar for our brain cells to function properly and to think well, a high level of sugar in our brain circulation may be causing damage there also. 

So what researchers suggest we do?  If we do not have diabetes, focus our efforts on healthy lifestyle to prevent developing diabetes.  If we have been diagnosed with diabetes, work with our doctor to keep the diabetes under control.  A normal blood sugar level will help prevent complications and damage.  Here’s some things we can do:

·       Eat more healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat meats and cheeses.  Eat less processed, sugar-laden foods.

·       Work to lose weight if you are overweight.  (Not an easy thing to master for many of us.)

·       Add exercise to our days.  The Mayo clinic suggests 30 minutes most days.  While this sounds like a lot, start slow and work on it.  Also increase slowly and in small amounts to avoid hurting yourself.

·       Brush and floss daily.

·       Watch your feet for sores daily.  http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/diabetes-and-alzheimers/ART-20046987?p=1