Diabetes Increases Your Risk of Dementia: Here's What You Can Do
Nov 12, 2024
Because November is National Diabetes Month, our team at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache wants to raise awareness about diabetes and its far-reaching effects on your health. One lesser-known but significant connection is the link between diabetes and an increased risk of developing dementia.
Studies have shown that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to experience cognitive decline as they age. Understanding this connection can help you take steps to protect both your brain and your body.
Diabetes affects how your body manages blood sugar (glucose). When blood sugar levels are consistently high, as they often are with unmanaged diabetes, it can damage blood vessels, including those that supply your brain. Over time, this can lead to cognitive issues such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and slower thinking. Research suggests that people with type 2 diabetes have up to a 50% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
Chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, common in diabetes, can also harm brain cells and disrupt how the brain processes information. Though the exact mechanisms linking diabetes to dementia are still being studied, the connection is clear — managing your blood sugar is essential not only for your physical health but also for your mental well-being.
There are ways to reduce your risk of dementia by managing your diabetes effectively, including:
Work with our team to ensure your blood sugar levels stay within your target range. You may need medication, lifestyle changes, or both to manage your blood sugar effectively.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps regulate your blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients for your brain health. Consider a Mediterranean-style diet, which has been linked to both heart and brain health.
Improve your insulin sensitivity and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels with regular physical activity. Exercise is also known to boost brain function and protect against cognitive decline. Do your best to move your body for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
High blood pressure and high cholesterol can further increase your risk of dementia. Be sure to keep these factors in check to protect both your heart and brain.
Keep your brain active through activities like reading, puzzles, or learning new skills. Mental stimulation helps build cognitive resilience and may lower your risk of dementia.
By staying informed and proactive about your health, you can significantly reduce your risk of diabetes complications and dementia. Take action this month to protect your body and mind for the future.
Learn more by booking an appointment with our team in Stamford or Westport, Connecticut. Call or schedule online today.