Did you know that high blood sugar levels could potentially increase your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease? Multiple studies have shown that people with Type 2 diabetes have a significantly higher risk of cognitive decline compared to nondiabetics, with one meta-analysis of these studies showing a 73% increase in all types of dementia and a 56% increase in Alzheimer’s disease specifically.
Studies have found that excess sugar in the blood can cause damage to blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and depriving the brain of essential nutrients and oxygen. Furthermore, high blood sugar levels can trigger inflammation and the build-up of harmful proteins in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and memory loss.
11% of American Adults (11.6% of the population) have Diabetes. And Nearly 100 million adults in the U.S ( 38% of American adults) have prediabetes – that’s a lot of rapidly aging brains!
This means that half of American adults are at high risk of developing Alzheimer's and Dementia.
Whether you have Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes or just want to prevent the development of Alzheimer's, one of the major keys to brain health is keeping blood sugar levels steady, and the only way to do so is through Proper Diet. Food is Medicine.
Unveiling the Hidden Connection: How High Blood Sugar and Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease are Intertwined
Diabetics have a 56% increased risk of Alzheimer's and a 73% increased risk of all types of dementia.
Understanding how high blood sugar affects brain health is very important especially as we age. The brain relies heavily on a steady supply of glucose for energy; however, when blood sugar levels become too high, the body’s ability to utilize glucose effectively diminishes. This inefficiency can lead to a state of energy deprivation in brain cells, impairing their function and survival.
Chronic high blood sugar can also contribute to the disruption of insulin signaling in the brain. Insulin is not only crucial for regulating blood sugar levels but also plays a significant role in cognitive function and memory. Impaired insulin signaling can lead to a condition known as "type 3 diabetes," which refers to the insulin resistance observed in the brain. This condition has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy insulin levels for optimal cognitive health.
Furthermore, high blood sugar can promote the production of free radicals, resulting in oxidative stress. This oxidative damage can lead to neuronal injury and death, contributing to cognitive decline. The brain's ability to defend itself against oxidative stress diminishes with age, making individuals with high blood sugar even more vulnerable to these damaging effects.
The Link Between High Blood Sugar and Brain Stroke
Research suggests that prolonged high blood sugar may contribute to cognitive decline through several mechanisms. One significant pathway is the impact of glucose on the brain's vascular system. Elevated blood sugar can lead to the thickening of blood vessels and reduced blood flow, ultimately depriving the brain of essential nutrients and oxygen. This vascular damage may increase the risk of stroke, a known contributor to cognitive impairment.
In addition to vascular damage, high blood sugar can trigger inflammatory responses in the body. Chronic inflammation has been implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease, as it can lead to neuronal injury and the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. Studies have shown that individuals with diabetes have elevated levels of inflammatory markers, suggesting a link between metabolic dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases.
Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease and dementia are terms often used interchangeably, but they are not synonymous. Dementia is an umbrella term that describes a range of cognitive impairments that interfere with daily life, while Alzheimer's disease is a specific form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Alzheimer's is characterized by a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and behavior, often leading to severe impairment and the inability to carry out daily tasks.
The progression of Alzheimer's disease typically unfolds in stages, beginning with mild memory lapses and advancing to significant cognitive decline and loss of independence. Early warning signs may include confusion about time or place, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and challenges in communicating.
The Proper Diet to Manage Blood Sugar Levels Safely
Effective management of blood sugar levels is critical in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. A diet rich in whole low GI whole grains (no processed or refined carbohydrates), healthy fats like real Heirloom Olive Oil and avocadoes, and plenty of fresh and cooked fruits and vegetables can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve overall metabolic health.
Incorporating low glycemic index foods into your diet can be particularly beneficial. These foods release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.
Bread was a staple food since Biblical times for a reason. If made properly, bread has the potential to contain up to 70% of your daily nutritional needs. Unfortunately most of the commercial breads out there are toxic including sprouted breads.
Here at Joseph's Bakery, one of the reasons our breads are good for diabetics, is because they are made with ancient grains (which have a lower Glycemic Index). The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, while those with a low GI have a slower and more gradual effect.
Our Ancient Grain Breads have a low GI compared to other grains, which means they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This is especially important for diabetics, as it helps them maintain stable glucose levels and avoid sudden fluctuations.
Additionally our breads are fermented to increase probiotic content.
We bake bread like a thousand years with a special unique process.
To learn more about our breads click the link below:
Foods to eat if you're Diabetic:
1. Incorporating more fiber-rich, plant-based, wholegrain foods into the diet to nourish the gut microbiome. 2. Reducing the consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and animal proteins that can disrupt gut balance. 3. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like umeboshi plums and fermented beets to replenish beneficial gut bacteria.4. Addressing any underlying digestive issues, such as leaky gut, through dietary and lifestyle changes.
FOODS TO AVOID:
Its very important to Avoid all Animal Protein while working to lower blood sugar levels. These foods should be avoided: wild and farmed fish (full of parasites, heavy metals, pesticides (used to combat sea lice in ocean pens), vaccines, antibiotics, herbicides, PCBs), as well as chicken and meat, milk, and all dairy except a little Raw Dairy such as Raw Butter (from Unpasteurized Milk).
Diet Plans for Diabetes at Joseph's Organic Bakery
3 DIET PLANS
For Diabetes & Prediabetes
Diabetes Medications have serious side effects such as heart disease, bone fractures, arthritis, IBS, weight gain, and kidney disease.
After being on diabetes medications for years, the kidneys are no longer able to filter out the drugs, for this reason, many diabetics find themselves dealing not only with diabetes, but also with kidney disease and even facing dialysis.
But there is an alternative with ZERO side effects: PROPER DIET.
Bad Food can be poison but
Proper Food is Medicine.
DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF OUR
REVOLUTIONARY DIET PLANS FOR DIABETES
Discover the Benefits:
Reverse High Blood Sugar*
LOSE WEIGHT*
Regain Your Energy Levels*
Boost Your Overall Health*
Transform your Health Today!
CALL US FOR MORE INFO 954-541-4062
or click the link below
Physical Activity and Its Role in Preventing Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia
Studies have shown that individuals who engage in regular physical activity have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and experience a slower rate of cognitive decline compared to sedentary individuals. Aerobic exercises, such as walking, dancing or cycling, are particularly beneficial, as they have been shown to improve brain function and enhance mood.
In addition to the direct effects of exercise on brain health, physical activity can also help manage blood sugar levels. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate glucose metabolism, thereby reducing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The connection between high blood sugar and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia is both shocking and revealing. As research continues to uncover the mechanisms underlying this relationship, it becomes increasingly clear that managing blood sugar levels is paramount for preserving cognitive health. Individuals with diabetes and prediabetes must take proactive steps to control their blood sugar through proper dietary choices, and lifestyle modifications such as incorporating a daily walking/exercise routine.
Ultimately, understanding the hidden connection between high blood sugar and cognitive decline empowers individuals to take charge of their health. By prioritizing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and blood sugar management, it is possible to support brain health and significantly lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Food truly is medicine, and the choices we make today can have lasting effects on our cognitive health tomorrow.